The concept of participation in the biblical context often refers to the privilege and responsibility of being involved in the work and mission of God. This participation is not merely a passive experience but an active engagement in the divine purposes as revealed through Scripture. The honor of participation is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the dignity and value bestowed upon believers who partake in God's work.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, participation in God's work is seen in the calling of the Israelites as a chosen people. They were set apart to be a "kingdom of priests and a holy nation" (Exodus 19:6). This calling was not just a status but an invitation to actively engage in God's covenantal purposes. The Israelites participated in God's redemptive plan through obedience to the Law, worship, and the sacrificial system, which pointed to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

The prophets also highlight the honor of participation. For instance, Isaiah speaks of the servant of the Lord who is called to be a light to the nations (Isaiah 42:6). This role is not only a duty but a profound honor, as it involves being a conduit of God's salvation to the ends of the earth.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the honor of participation is further expanded through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Believers are called to be co-laborers with Christ, participating in the Great Commission to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). This commission is a privilege that involves sharing in the mission of spreading the Gospel and making known the manifold wisdom of God.

The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of the honor of participation in his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 3:9, he writes, "For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building" . This metaphor of being fellow workers underscores the dignity of being involved in God's work. Paul also emphasizes the communal aspect of participation, as believers are members of one body, each with unique gifts and roles (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

Participation in Suffering and Glory

Participation in the Christian life also involves sharing in the sufferings of Christ. Paul writes in Philippians 3:10, "I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to Him in His death" . This participation in suffering is not without purpose; it is a pathway to experiencing the power of the resurrection and the glory that follows.

Peter echoes this sentiment, encouraging believers to rejoice in their participation in the sufferings of Christ, so that they may also rejoice when His glory is revealed (1 Peter 4:13). The honor of participation, therefore, encompasses both the trials and the triumphs of the Christian journey.

Eternal Perspective

The honor of participation extends beyond this life into eternity. In Revelation, those who have faithfully participated in God's work are depicted as reigning with Christ (Revelation 20:6). This eternal perspective provides motivation and hope, affirming that participation in God's work is not in vain but is part of a grand, divine narrative that culminates in eternal glory.

In summary, the honor of participation in the biblical sense is a profound privilege that involves engaging in God's redemptive work, sharing in the sufferings and glory of Christ, and ultimately, partaking in the eternal reign with Him. This participation is both a gift and a responsibility, calling believers to live out their faith actively and purposefully.