The Inheritance of a Christian

When people pass from this life, they often leave their surviving relatives an inheritance. The inheritance that one receives is different for everyone, but it is an expectation of many when their loved ones move on. We understand the idea and the concept of an earthly inheritance, but do we understand the eternal inheritance that is promised to a Christian? Without a doubt, there is many things that could be said about the splendor of heaven and the inheritance of a Christian, but one of the most detailed descriptions is found in the opening chapter of 1 Peter. With that in mind, consider some eternal truths that can be learned from this passage about the inheritance of a Christian.

First, we learn the inheritance of a Christian comes through Christ. In 1 Peter 1:3 the Bible says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” Now, the passage is very clear the inheritance of heaven was purposed by God, it is given through mercy, and it provides mankind with hope, but notice it is the resurrection of Christ that makes heaven possible. This of course is consistent with Paul’s inspired words in 1 Corinthians 15:20, 21 where he said, “But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead.” In other words, because Jesus rose from the dead, everyone else will too. However, it is only the Christian who will rise to receive the inheritance provided by God through Jesus Christ.

Second, we learn the inheritance of a Christian is perfect. As Peter continues to speak about the reward of the faithful, he says this inheritance is, “incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (v. 4). Truly, the inheritance of a Christian is perfect in every way. Think about it if Peter says the inheritance is incorruptible that means nothing can destroy it. If he says the inheritance is undefiled that means nothing can taint it, and if he says the inheritance does not fade away that means time does not affect it. Isn’t it wonderful to know that though we live in a world of imperfection, God has promised the Christian a place of nothing but perfection?

Finally, we learn the inheritance of a Christian requires faith. As Peter finishes his inspired lesson on heaven, he points out there must be a constant faith in the salvation of God for one to receive the reward of God (v. 6). Certainly, this can be a challenge for many. After all, God is asking us to believe in a place that we have never been, but when you think about it, we actually do this all the time. For example, none of us have ever walked on the moon, yet we believe it is possible. It could be you have never been to Australia or Russia, yet you understand it is a real place. In the same manner, none of us have ever been to heaven, yet Scripture invites us to place our trust in its existence. In order to receive the inheritance of a Christian, you must have the faith that says heaven is a place Christ has prepared (John 14:1-3).

Without a doubt, everyone would agree the inheritances we receive on earth are certainly nice and a tremendous blessing, but when you really stop and think about it those inheritances pail in comparison to the inheritance of a Christian. Knowing that to be true, we need to make sure we live our lives according to God’s Word, so we do not allow our inheritance to go uncollected.