Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terms, a "will" or "testament" refers to a legal declaration by which a person, the testator, names one or more persons to manage their estate and provides for the distribution of their property at death. The concept of a will is deeply rooted in the Scriptures, reflecting both human legal practices and divine covenants.Biblical Foundation The idea of a will or testament is notably discussed in the New Testament, particularly in the context of the covenant established by God. In Galatians 3:15, the Apostle Paul uses the analogy of a human will to explain the unchangeable nature of God's promises: "Brothers, let me put this in human terms. Even a human covenant, once it is ratified, cannot be canceled or amended." (BSB). Here, Paul emphasizes that just as a human will, once legally confirmed, cannot be annulled or altered, so too are God's promises irrevocable. Divine Covenant The concept of a testament is also central to understanding the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ. Hebrews 9:15-17 explains, "Therefore Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, now that He has died to redeem them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant. For where there is a will, it must be established that the one who made it has died. Because a will does not take effect until the one who made it has died; it cannot be executed while he is still alive." (BSB). This passage highlights the necessity of Christ's death to activate the New Covenant, likening it to a testament that requires the death of the testator to be enacted. Irrevocability and Assurance The irrevocability of a will, once ratified, provides assurance and certainty to the beneficiaries. This mirrors the assurance believers have in the promises of God. In the context of salvation and eternal life, the unchangeable nature of God's testament offers believers confidence in their inheritance. The security of God's promises is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, underscoring the faithfulness and reliability of God's word. Legal and Spiritual Implications In the ancient world, a will was a binding legal document, and its terms were to be honored and executed as stipulated by the testator. This legal understanding is reflected in biblical teachings, where the divine will is seen as sovereign and unalterable. The spiritual implications are profound, as they affirm the certainty of God's covenantal promises to His people. Practical Application For Christians, the concept of a will serves as a reminder of the importance of living in accordance with God's testamentary promises. It encourages believers to trust in the unchanging nature of God's word and to live with the assurance that His promises are secure. The analogy of a will also calls believers to consider their own legacies and the importance of making provisions for future generations, both materially and spiritually. In summary, the biblical concept of a will or testament underscores the unchangeable nature of God's promises and the assurance of the believer's inheritance in Christ. It serves as a powerful metaphor for understanding the New Covenant and the eternal security offered through faith in Jesus. Nave's Topical Index Galatians 3:15Brothers, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man cancels, or adds thereto. Nave's Topical Index Library Thirteenth Sunday after Trinity God's Testament and Promise in ... Our Inheritance Letter Lxxi. To Lucinius. To the Rev. A. Brandram The Epistle to the Hebrews Acts viii. 26, 27 Divine Election and Reprobation 1 Cor. vii. 1, 2 Epistle xviii. To John, Bishop. The Earliest Christian Preaching Resources What does it mean to pray, “Thy will be done”? | GotQuestions.orgWill Christians see the Antichrist, or will the rapture occur before then? | GotQuestions.org What will happen when Jesus returns / comes back? | GotQuestions.org Will: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Will of God, the Supreme Rule of Duty Will: A Testament in Force Only After Death Will: A Testament of Jehoshaphat Will: A Testament: May not be Annulled Will: The Mental Faculty: Freedom of, Recognized by God Related Terms Free-will-offering (9 Occurrences) Free-will-offerings (6 Occurrences) |
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