What is our inheritance according to the Bible?

For many, the word “inheritance” conjures images of material possessions passed down from one generation to the next. However, the biblical concept of inheritance is far richer and more profound, encompassing spiritual, physical, and eternal dimensions. In this blog post, we will explore what our inheritance is according to the Bible, how it is described, and what it means for believers today.

The Old Testament Foundation: Land and Promise

In the Old Testament, inheritance is most often associated with the land God promised to Abraham and his descendants. In Genesis 12:7, God declares, “To your offspring I will give this land.” The concept of the Promised Land becomes central to the identity of Israel. It was not just property but a tangible sign of God’s faithfulness, favor, and presence among His chosen people. The distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel (Joshua 13–21) was both a fulfillment of promise and a symbol of belonging.

Beyond the land itself, inheritance in the Old Testament also pointed to a relationship with God. In Deuteronomy 32:9, we read, “For the Lord’s portion is his people, Jacob his allotted inheritance.” Here, the inheritance is not only what God gives, but also God Himself. The Levites, for example, did not receive a portion of land; instead, God declared, “I am your share and your inheritance among the Israelites” (Numbers 18:20).

The New Testament Shift: A Spiritual and Eternal Inheritance

With the coming of Jesus Christ, the concept of inheritance takes on new and deeper meanings. The New Testament reveals that the inheritance promised to God’s people is not merely land or physical blessings, but something far greater: a spiritual inheritance in Christ.

Heirs Through Christ

The Apostle Paul proclaims in Romans 8:16–17, “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.” This means that all who believe in Jesus are adopted into God’s family and have a share in everything that belongs to Christ. Our inheritance is tied to our identity as children of God, not to our nationality, ethnicity, or earthly achievements.

The Nature of the Inheritance

Unlike earthly inheritances that fade or can be lost, the inheritance believers have in Christ is described as imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. Peter writes, “[God] has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:3–4). This inheritance is secure, eternal, and preserved by God’s power.

What Does This Inheritance Include?

The biblical inheritance encompasses several key aspects:

1. Eternal Life: The most foundational element is eternal life with God. Jesus says, “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world’” (Matthew 25:34). Eternal life is not just endless existence, but a life filled with God’s presence, joy, and peace.
2. The Kingdom of God: Believers inherit the Kingdom of God (James 2:5; Colossians 1:12). This includes the restoration of all things, the reign of Christ, and participation in God’s redemptive plan for creation.
3. The Holy Spirit: Paul refers to the Holy Spirit as a “deposit guaranteeing our inheritance” (Ephesians 1:13–14). The Spirit is both a foretaste and assurance of the full inheritance believers will one day receive.
4. All Spiritual Blessings: In Christ, believers receive “every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 1:3). This includes forgiveness, reconciliation, adoption, and the hope of glory.

Living in Light of Our Inheritance

Because our inheritance is secure in Christ, we are set free from anxiety about material possessions or worldly status. Instead, we are called to set our minds on things above (Colossians 3:1–4) and to live as heirs of the Kingdom, reflecting God’s love and grace to others.

Moreover, our inheritance carries a responsibility. Paul urges believers to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received” (Ephesians 4:1). As heirs, we represent the King, and our lives should display the character and hope of those who belong to Him.

Conclusion: The Gift and Hope of Inheritance

Our inheritance according to the Bible is more than land, wealth, or earthly rewards. It is the privilege of belonging to God, being united with Christ, and sharing in His eternal Kingdom. This inheritance is secure, glorious, and available to all who put their faith in Jesus.