Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the eternal inheritance for the saints is a central theme in Christian theology, reflecting the promise of everlasting life and divine blessings for those who are faithful to God. This inheritance is not merely a future hope but a present reality that shapes the life and conduct of believers.Biblical Foundation The New Testament provides a rich tapestry of references to the eternal inheritance promised to the saints. In the Epistle to the Ephesians, the Apostle Paul writes, "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, in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, would be for the praise of His glory" (Ephesians 1:11-12). This passage underscores the divine initiative and purpose in granting this inheritance. The Apostle Peter also speaks of this inheritance, describing it as "imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:4). This description emphasizes the eternal and unchanging nature of the inheritance, contrasting it with the temporal and often corruptible nature of earthly possessions. Nature of the Inheritance The eternal inheritance is multifaceted, encompassing both spiritual and physical dimensions. Spiritually, it includes the fullness of salvation, eternal life, and a restored relationship with God. The Book of Revelation provides a vivid picture of this inheritance, where the saints will dwell with God, free from pain, sorrow, and death: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away" (Revelation 21:4). Physically, the inheritance includes the promise of a new creation. The Apostle Paul writes in Romans, "The creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God" (Romans 8:19), indicating that the entire cosmos will be renewed and that the saints will share in this renewed creation. Conditions and Assurance While the inheritance is a gift of grace, it is also conditioned upon faith and perseverance. The writer of Hebrews exhorts believers to "imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised" (Hebrews 6:12). This call to perseverance is echoed throughout the New Testament, emphasizing the need for steadfastness in the face of trials. Despite these conditions, the assurance of the inheritance is grounded in the faithfulness of God. The Holy Spirit is given as a "deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession" (Ephesians 1:14). This assurance provides believers with confidence and hope as they await the full realization of their inheritance. Implications for Believers The promise of an eternal inheritance has profound implications for the life of the believer. It serves as a source of hope and motivation, encouraging a life of holiness and devotion. The Apostle Paul reminds the Colossians, "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" (Colossians 3:2), urging them to live in light of their heavenly inheritance. Furthermore, the anticipation of this inheritance fosters a sense of unity and identity among believers, as they are all "heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ" (Romans 8:17). This shared inheritance transcends earthly divisions and calls the saints to live in love and harmony with one another. In summary, the eternal inheritance of the saints is a central tenet of Christian faith, offering a vision of hope and fulfillment that transcends the temporal struggles of this world. It is a promise that shapes the identity and conduct of believers, anchoring them in the unchanging faithfulness of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 9:15And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Whether a Man in Grace Can Merit Eternal Life Condignly Whether a Man in Grace Can Merit Eternal Life Condignly? The Saints Before Christ's Coming. That the Saints Lose Nothing in Losing Temporal Goods. The Good Man Useful in Life and Happy in Death. Christ the Redeemer The Kingdom Given to the Saints at the Resurrection of the Just. On the Comparison of the Law and the Gospel The Great Misery of those who Lose the Saints' Rest. An Address to the Regenerate, Founded on the Preceding Discourses. Resources What did Jesus mean when He said the first will be last and the last will be first? | GotQuestions.orgIs there anything I can do to guarantee myself a long life? | GotQuestions.org What is the purpose of there being rewards in heaven? | GotQuestions.org Reward: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Reward: A Motive to Faithfulness The Reward of Saints is from God The Reward of Saints is Inestimable The Reward of Saints is of God's Good Pleasure The Reward of Saints is of Grace, Through Faith Alone The Reward of Saints is Satisfying The Reward of Saints: A City Which had Foundation The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Glory The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Life The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Righteousness The Reward of Saints: A House Eternal in the Heavens The Reward of Saints: A Kingdom The Reward of Saints: A Kingdom Immovable The Reward of Saints: An Enduring Substance The Reward of Saints: An Eternal Weight of Glory The Reward of Saints: An Incorruptible Crown The Reward of Saints: As Servants of Christ The Reward of Saints: Be Careful not to Lose The Reward of Saints: Beholding the Face of God The Reward of Saints: Beholding the Glory of Christ The Reward of Saints: Being Glorified With Christ The Reward of Saints: Being With Christ The Reward of Saints: Entering Into the Joy of the Lord The Reward of Saints: Everlasting Life The Reward of Saints: Everlasting Light The Reward of Saints: Fulness of Joy The Reward of Saints: Hope of, a Cause of Rejoicing The Reward of Saints: Inheritance Eternal The Reward of Saints: Inheritance Incorruptible The Reward of Saints: Inheritance of all Things The Reward of Saints: Inheritance With Saints in Light The Reward of Saints: Joint Heirship With Christ The Reward of Saints: Not on Account of Their Merits The Reward of Saints: Prepared by Christ The Reward of Saints: Prepared by God The Reward of Saints: Present Afflictions not to be Compared With The Reward of Saints: Reigning for Ever and Ever The Reward of Saints: Reigning With Christ The Reward of Saints: Saints May Feel Confident of The Reward of Saints: Shall be Given at the Second Coming of Christ The Reward of Saints: Shining As the Stars The Reward of Saints: Sitting in Judgment With Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prize of the High Calling of God in Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Diligence The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Enduring Suffering for Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Faithfulness to Death The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Pressing Forward The Reward of Saints: Treasure in Heaven Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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