InstaStudy

The Believer's Inheritance in Christ

A study exploring the rich spiritual inheritance promised to those who are in Christ, understanding its nature, how it is received, and its implications for our lives.

1. The Sovereign Giver of Our Inheritance

1.1 God's Singular Nature and His Plan

Verses: Isaiah 44:6; John 14:9; Colossians 2:9
  • God is one, the Creator and sustainer of all.
  • In Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
  • His plan for humanity's redemption and inheritance is rooted in His singular being.

1.2 Jesus Christ: The Heir and the Means of Inheritance

Verses: Hebrews 1:2; Colossians 1:15-17; John 1:3
  • All things were created by Him and for Him.
  • Jesus is the appointed heir of all things.
  • Through Him, we gain access to our inheritance.

2. The Nature of Our Spiritual Inheritance

2.1 Eternal Life and Spiritual Blessings

Verses: John 3:16; Ephesians 1:3; Romans 8:17
  • Our inheritance includes eternal life through faith in Jesus.
  • We are blessed with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places.
  • We are co-heirs with Christ.

2.2 The Kingdom of God and Righteousness

Verses: Matthew 25:34; Romans 14:17; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10
  • We inherit the Kingdom prepared for us.
  • The Kingdom is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
  • Unrighteousness forfeits this inheritance.

3. Accessing Our Inheritance: The New Birth

3.1 Repentance and Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Colossians 2:12; Romans 6:3-4
  • Repentance is essential for the remission of sins.
  • Baptism in the name of Jesus Christ is for the washing away of sins.
  • Through baptism, we are buried with Him and raised to new life.

3.2 The Infilling of the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 19:2-6; Galatians 3:14
  • The promise of the Holy Spirit is for all believers.
  • The Spirit is the down payment and guarantee of our inheritance.
  • Speaking in tongues is the initial evidence of receiving the Spirit.

3.3 Adoption into God's Family

Verses: Romans 8:15-17; Galatians 4:5-7; Ephesians 1:5
  • We receive the Spirit of adoption, crying, 'Abba, Father'.
  • As sons and daughters, we are heirs of God.
  • God predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ.

4. Living as Heirs of God

4.1 Walking in Righteousness and Holiness

Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:5
  • We are called to be holy as He is holy.
  • Without holiness, no one will see the Lord.
  • Immorality and impurity exclude one from the inheritance.

4.2 Stewardship and Responsibility

Verses: Luke 12:48; 1 Corinthians 4:2; Matthew 25:21
  • To whom much is given, much is required.
  • We are stewards of God's blessings and gifts.
  • Faithfulness in small things leads to greater responsibilities.

4.3 Perseverance and Faith

Verses: Hebrews 10:36; Revelation 2:10; Galatians 6:9
  • We need endurance to receive the promise.
  • Be faithful unto death, and receive the crown of life.
  • Do not grow weary in doing good.