The concept of "inheritance among the sanctified" is a profound theme in Christian theology, reflecting the eternal rewards and spiritual legacy promised to believers who are set apart for God's purposes. This inheritance is not merely material or earthly but is deeply rooted in the spiritual blessings and eternal life granted through faith in Jesus Christ.

Biblical Foundation

The idea of inheritance is woven throughout the Scriptures, beginning with the Old Testament promises to the patriarchs and extending into the New Testament revelations. In the Old Testament, inheritance often referred to the physical land promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. However, the New Testament expands this concept to encompass spiritual realities.

In Acts 20:32, the Apostle Paul addresses the elders of the church in Ephesus, saying, "And now I commit you to God and to the word of His grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all who are sanctified." Here, Paul emphasizes that the inheritance is linked to the sanctifying work of God's grace, which sets believers apart for His holy purposes.

Nature of the Inheritance

The inheritance among the sanctified is described as incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading. In 1 Peter 1:4, believers are encouraged by the promise of "an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you." This inheritance is not subject to decay or loss, contrasting sharply with earthly possessions.

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this in Ephesians 1:18, where he prays for the believers to have "the eyes of your heart enlightened, that you may know the hope of His calling, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints." This passage highlights the richness and glory of the inheritance, which is intimately connected to the hope and calling of God.

Recipients of the Inheritance

The inheritance is specifically for those who are sanctified, meaning those who have been set apart by God through faith in Jesus Christ. Sanctification is both a positional and progressive reality in the life of a believer. Positionally, believers are sanctified through the finished work of Christ on the cross. Progressively, they are being sanctified through the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

Colossians 1:12-13 speaks to this, stating, "giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son." This passage underscores that it is God who qualifies believers for this inheritance, transferring them from darkness to light.

Implications for Believers

The promise of an inheritance among the sanctified carries significant implications for how believers live their lives. It serves as a source of hope and motivation, encouraging them to live in a manner worthy of their calling. In Romans 8:17, Paul writes, "And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him." This verse highlights the shared inheritance with Christ, which includes both suffering and glory.

Furthermore, the inheritance is a reminder of the believer's identity and destiny. It calls for a life of holiness and devotion, as seen in Hebrews 12:14, which exhorts believers to "pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord."

Conclusion

The inheritance among the sanctified is a central theme in Christian theology, offering believers a glimpse of the eternal rewards and spiritual blessings that await them. It is a promise rooted in the grace of God, secured through the work of Christ, and realized through the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit. This inheritance not only assures believers of their future hope but also shapes their present lives, calling them to live in holiness and devotion to God.