Inheritance

In the biblical context, "inheritance" refers to the passing down of possessions, land, or blessings from one generation to another. This concept is deeply rooted in the cultural and legal practices of ancient Israel and carries significant theological implications throughout Scripture.

1. Old Testament Context: Inheritance in the Old Testament often pertains to the division of land among the tribes of Israel. The land of Canaan was promised to Abraham and his descendants as an everlasting possession (Genesis 17:8). The division of this land among the tribes is detailed in the book of Joshua, where each tribe receives its allotted portion (Joshua 13-21). The inheritance was meant to remain within the family and tribe, as seen in the laws of Levirate marriage and the Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25:10, Numbers 27:8-11).

2. Spiritual Inheritance: Beyond physical land, inheritance also carries a spiritual dimension. The Levites, for example, did not receive a land inheritance because the LORD Himself was their inheritance (Deuteronomy 18:2). This concept extends to all believers, who are considered heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). The spiritual inheritance includes eternal life, the kingdom of God, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

3. New Testament Fulfillment: The New Testament expands the idea of inheritance to include all who are in Christ, regardless of ethnic background. Ephesians 1:11 states, "In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will." This inheritance is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for believers (1 Peter 1:4).

Promise

The concept of "promise" in the Bible is closely linked to God's covenants and His faithfulness to fulfill His word. Promises in Scripture are often divine assurances given to individuals or groups, which are ultimately fulfilled in God's timing.

1. Covenantal Promises: The Bible is replete with covenants, which are formal agreements between God and His people. The Abrahamic Covenant is foundational, where God promises Abraham numerous descendants, land, and blessings (Genesis 12:1-3). This promise is reiterated and expanded throughout the patriarchal narratives and is central to Israel's identity.

2. Messianic Promises: The Old Testament contains numerous promises regarding the coming Messiah, who would bring salvation and establish God's kingdom. These promises are fulfilled in Jesus Christ, as seen in prophecies such as Isaiah 9:6-7 and their New Testament fulfillment (Matthew 1:22-23).

3. New Covenant Promises: The New Testament introduces the New Covenant, established through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This covenant promises forgiveness of sins, a new heart, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 8:6-13). Believers are assured of eternal life and the hope of resurrection (John 3:16, 1 Corinthians 15:20-22).

4. Faith and Promise: The relationship between faith and promise is emphasized in the New Testament. Hebrews 11 highlights the faith of the patriarchs who trusted in God's promises, even when they did not see their fulfillment in their lifetime. Galatians 3:29 states, "And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise."

In summary, inheritance and promise are intertwined themes that reveal God's plan of redemption and His faithfulness to His people. Through Christ, believers are recipients of a spiritual inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promises, which are assured by His unchanging nature and sovereign will.