OUR INHERITANCE

It has recently come to my attention that in all three passages of Paul’s letters that list the works of the flesh, or the sins that are so prevalent in the world today, we find a similar warning pertaining to our inheritance. Check them out, they are (1Cor 6:9-10, Gal 5:19-21, and Eph 5:3-5). In every case it is clear that those who do these things will have no part, or inheritance in the Kingdom of God. Now we have known born again Christians over the years who have been involved in many, if not all, of the sins mentioned in these passages. Does that mean they were not really saved? Or did they lose their salvation because of their sin? Before we pass judgment on these people, we need to look more closely at what is meant by this word “inheritance”. It simply means to take possession of property or an estate made available to us by an ancestor. We hear of people inheriting wealth from some relative they may never have met, but they are one of the legitimate family heirs to a portion of this estate.

When we become a member of God’s family through the “new birth” experience mentioned in (John 3:3), we become an heir of God, and “joint heir” with Jesus Christ. (Rom 8:17). This inheritance is a part in the Kingdom of God, and as Peter tells us, is reserved in heaven for us. (1 Peter 1:3-5). But we know from our study of the Kingdom of God, that it is not only future, but present now on planet earth. Jesus is King of this Kingdom, and it came to earth with Him at His incarnation in Bethlehem, many years ago. When He taught His disciples to pray in (Matt 6:9-13), He told them to pray to the Father that the Kingdom that exists in heaven, might be established on earth. As believers we are “transferred” out of the kingdom of darkness, into the Kingdom of God. (Col 1:13). If we are transferred in, then we can be legislated back out. This doesn’t affect our standing in the family of God, but can affect our inheritance. Our place in the Kingdom is determined by our conduct, and can be affected by our actions. That’s why we should pay close attention to the warnings given in the scriptures mentioned at the beginning of this article. Membership or citizenship in the Kingdom is reserved for believers who are obedient to the commandments given to us in God’s word. Remember Esau who traded His birthright to his brother Jacob for a bowl of stew? Later when he desired to have it back we are told in (Heb 12:14-17) he found no place for repentance! This is very serious business, and should call for our careful consideration, and a clear understanding of what is involved for us as believers. It seems to me that a complete break with the world is essential!!

Sincerely in Him.

Gramp