The concept of the privilege of believers is deeply rooted in the Christian faith, emphasizing the unique benefits and responsibilities bestowed upon those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This privilege is multifaceted, encompassing spiritual, relational, and eternal dimensions.

Adoption as Children of God

One of the foremost privileges of believers is their adoption into the family of God. This adoption is not merely a metaphorical concept but a profound spiritual reality. In the Gospel of John, it is written, "But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:12). This adoption signifies a transformation in identity and status, granting believers the rights and privileges of being God's children, including His love, care, and inheritance.

Access to God

Believers enjoy direct access to God, a privilege that was not available under the Old Covenant. Through the atoning work of Christ, the barrier between God and humanity has been removed. The author of Hebrews encourages believers, "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need" (Hebrews 4:16). This access allows believers to communicate with God through prayer, seek His guidance, and experience His presence in their lives.

Indwelling of the Holy Spirit

Another significant privilege is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Upon accepting Christ, believers receive the Holy Spirit, who empowers, guides, and sanctifies them. The Apostle Paul writes, "Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?" (1 Corinthians 3:16). The Holy Spirit serves as a counselor and comforter, enabling believers to live according to God's will and to bear spiritual fruit.

Assurance of Salvation

Believers are granted the assurance of salvation, a confidence rooted in the promises of God and the finished work of Christ. This assurance is not based on human merit but on faith in Jesus Christ. As Paul declares, "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor principalities, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers... will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:38-39). This assurance provides believers with peace and hope, even amidst trials and tribulations.

Fellowship with Other Believers

The privilege of fellowship with other believers is a vital aspect of the Christian life. This fellowship is characterized by mutual love, support, and encouragement. The early church exemplified this communal life, as described in Acts: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer" (Acts 2:42). Through fellowship, believers grow in their faith, hold each other accountable, and work together to advance the Kingdom of God.

Participation in the Great Commission

Believers are privileged to participate in the Great Commission, the mandate to spread the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. Jesus commissioned His followers, saying, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19). This privilege is also a responsibility, calling believers to be ambassadors of Christ, sharing His love and truth with the world.

Eternal Life

The ultimate privilege of believers is the promise of eternal life. This promise is the culmination of God's redemptive plan, offering believers the hope of eternal communion with Him. Jesus assures His followers, "Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment. Indeed, he has crossed over from death to life" (John 5:24). This eternal life begins at the moment of faith and continues beyond physical death, securing a future in the presence of God.

In summary, the privilege of believers encompasses a profound transformation in identity, access to divine resources, and a hopeful future, all rooted in the grace and love of God through Jesus Christ.