The concept of understanding our future role as believers is deeply rooted in biblical teachings, offering insights into the responsibilities and privileges that await the faithful in the life to come. This entry explores the scriptural basis for these roles, emphasizing the transformative journey from earthly life to eternal service in God's kingdom.

1. Co-heirs with Christ

The New Testament frequently highlights the believer's future role as co-heirs with Christ. In Romans 8:17, the Apostle 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 passage underscores the intimate relationship between believers and Christ, suggesting a shared inheritance that includes both suffering and glory. The role of co-heir implies a future participation in Christ's reign and the blessings of His kingdom.

2. Reigning with Christ

The theme of reigning with Christ is a significant aspect of the believer's future role. Revelation 20:6 states, "Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection! The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and will reign with Him for a thousand years." This millennial reign is a period where believers exercise authority and governance under Christ's supreme rule. The notion of reigning suggests a role of leadership and responsibility, reflecting the believer's transformation and maturity in Christ.

3. Priestly Service

Believers are also described as a "royal priesthood" in 1 Peter 2:9, indicating a future role that involves priestly service. This priesthood is not limited to the present age but extends into eternity, as seen in Revelation 5:10: "You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign upon the earth." The priestly role involves worship, intercession, and the mediation of God's presence, highlighting the believer's ongoing service and devotion to God.

4. Judging the World and Angels

Scripture also reveals that believers will participate in judgment. In 1 Corinthians 6:2-3, Paul poses a rhetorical question to the Corinthian church: "Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases? Do you not know that we will judge angels?" This passage suggests a future role in which believers, endowed with divine wisdom and authority, will participate in the administration of God's justice.

5. Eternal Fellowship with God

The ultimate future role of believers is characterized by eternal fellowship with God. Revelation 21:3-4 paints a vivid picture of this reality: "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away.'" This eternal communion with God is the culmination of the believer's journey, where all roles and responsibilities are fulfilled in the presence of the Almighty.

6. Transformation and Glorification

The future role of believers is intrinsically linked to their transformation and glorification. Philippians 3:20-21 states, "But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables Him to subject all things to Himself, will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body." This transformation equips believers for their future roles, ensuring they are fit for the responsibilities and joys of eternal life.

In summary, the Bible provides a multifaceted view of the believer's future role, encompassing co-heirship, reigning, priestly service, judgment, and eternal fellowship with God. These roles reflect the believer's identity in Christ and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.