Inheritance: God's Promised Portion

Inheritance represents what is passed down from one generation to the next—whether material possessions, spiritual blessings, or divine promises. In Scripture, inheritance carries profound significance, from the land promised to Abraham's descendants to the eternal inheritance secured for believers through Christ. Understanding biblical inheritance helps us grasp both the privileges of being God's children and our responsibility to steward what we have received for future generations.

Biblical Inheritance in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, inheritance laws and practices were deeply woven into Israelite society. The oldest son, because of the birthright, typically received a double portion of the inheritance (land and personal items) along with the father's blessing and future family headship (Deut 21:17). This system ensured the family estate remained intact while providing for all children. The land of Canaan itself was promised by God to Abraham and his descendants as an everlasting inheritance (Genesis 17:7-8; Num 34:2; 1 Kgs 8:36).

However, material inheritance was only one aspect of God's promises. The Israelites' inheritance also included God's presence, protection, and covenant relationship. The Levites, though given no territorial inheritance, received the Lord Himself as their portion (Josh 13:14,33). This spiritual dimension pointed forward to the greater inheritance that would come through Christ.

Our Inheritance in Christ

Jesus Christ, as the Son of God and heir of all things, has secured an eternal inheritance for believers (Heb 1:2). Through faith in Him, we have obtained this inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of God who works out all things according to the counsel of His will (Eph 1:11). The Holy Spirit living within us serves as a deposit guaranteeing what is to come (Eph 1:13-14; 2 Cor 5:5).

As believers, we are adopted sons of God and co-heirs with Christ (Rom 8:17). Our inheritance "...can never perish, spoil or fade – kept in heaven for you" (1 Pet 1:4-5). It includes many blessings on earth and, in the future, eternal life with Him, free from sin and wickedness (Mt 25:34; Acts 20:32; Heb 9:15). Salvation is more than just an entry pass into heaven. Are you aware of and utilizing now the riches of your inheritance in Christ? (Eph 1:18-19). We are to exercise authority 'in His name' to carry on doing His work on earth (Mk 16:15-18). We should be experiencing His peace in the midst of chaos (Jn 14:27; Phil 4:7).

There are many current benefits we should be experiencing now

John the Baptist shocked his listeners by saying that just because Abraham was their ancestor they were not automatically in right relationship with God (Lk 3:8). Similarly, no one can inherit eternal salvation because their parents were/are Christians. God only has children not grandchildren! The gift of salvation is received on an individual basis. "As many as receive Him to them He gives the right to be sons of God" (Jn 1:12). All humanity is invited to share in God's gracious offer of salvation through Jesus Christ and enter into this inheritance too (Acts 26:18).

Stewarding Our Spiritual Inheritance

Although salvation is freely available on confession of sin, in other areas of the Christian life often there is the need to persistently press in through prayer besides protecting through spiritual warfare what has been gained. Our eternal inheritance will be enhanced by our attitude to and service for Christ in this life, often termed "Laying up treasure in heaven" (Mt 5:5, 6:19-21, 19:29; Col 3:24; 1 Tim 6:18-19).

While it is important to have a written will stating what you want done with your earthly possessions after you die, do not overlook the immense deposit of righteousness He has invested in you and continually pass this on to others now. What we have received from Him, we should in turn bless others with (Lk 12:15-21). Conversely, God says He will punish future generations for the sin their fathers committed (Ex 20:5-6). What an incentive to deal with any sin issues in our lives and walk uprightly so we do not pass on what is not beneficial.

What spiritual values am I passing on?

We are called to be intentional about inputting into the spiritual inheritance of others. This includes discipling new believers, teaching children the ways of the Lord, mentoring younger Christians, and leaving a legacy of faith that impacts future generations. The apostle Paul spoke of his spiritual children in the faith (1 Cor 4:14-15; 1 Tim 1:2), demonstrating the importance of spiritual parenting and passing on what we have received.

Reflection and Application:

Take inventory of the spiritual inheritance you have received—what blessings, truths, and gifts has God entrusted to you?
Consider how you are actively using and enjoying your current inheritance in Christ rather than waiting for heaven.
Identify practical ways you can pass on spiritual blessings to the next generation—children, grandchildren, new believers, or younger Christians.
Examine your life for any negative patterns or sins that might be passed on to future generations, and bring them to God for cleansing and transformation.