our inheritance. introduction let us consider our hope of an eternal inheritance, described by the...

OUR INHERITANCE

INTRODUCTION

Let us consider our hope of an eternal inheritance, described by the apostle Peter as “imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Pet. 1:3-5).

DEFINED

The Greek word klēronomia, derived from klēronomos [an heir], refers to “an inheritance” [2817].

This word occurs 14x in the NT.

DIFFERING HOPES

Rooted in the Spirit of Rebellion Rooted in the Spirit of Greed Rooted in the Spirit of Faith

THE SPIRIT OF REBELLION

The Chief Priest and Pharisees embody a hope of inheritance rooted in a spirit of rebellion (Matt. 21:33-46, esp. vs. 38; cf. Mark 12:7; Luke 20:14).

THE SPIRIT OF GREED

Many manifest a hope of inheritance rooted in a spirit of greed (Luke 12:13-21, esp. vs. 13; cf. 1 Tim. 6:6-10, 17-19).

THE SPIRIT OF FAITH

In contrast, Abraham reflects a hope of inheritance rooted in the spirit of faith (Acts 7:2-5, esp. vs. 5; Heb. 11:8-16, esp. vs. 8).

BASIS OF CHRISTIAN HOPE

The Role of the Father The Role of the Son The Role of the Spirit

THE ROLE OF THE FATHER

Christian hope is based upon God’s promise and provision (Gal. 3:15-22, esp. vs. 18).

THE ROLE OF THE SON

Christian hope is based upon Christ’s sacrifice and service (Heb. 9:11-15, esp. vs. 15).

THE ROLE OF THE SPIRIT

Christian hope is based upon the Spirit’s revelation and confirmation (Eph. 1:13-19, esp. vs. 14 & 18).

CONDITIONS OF CHRISTIAN HOPE

Obedience to God Service to Man Separation from Sin

OBEDIENCE TO GOD

The realization of our hope demands full obedience to God (Acts 20:25-32, esp. vs. 32).

SERVICE TO MAN

The realization of our hope demands faithful service to man (Col. 3:22-25, esp. vs. 24).

SEPARATION FROM SIN

The realization of our hope demands separation from sin (Eph. 5:3-12, esp. vs. 5).

CONCLUSION

Do you, like Abraham, trust in the promises of God (Heb. 6:13-20)?

Are you willing to comply with the demands of the gospel (1 John 3:1-3)?