April 1, 2004

THE HEIR OF ALL THINGS

"In these last days he [God] has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe" (Hebrews 1:2, NIV).

The comprehensive term, "all things," is constantly associated with Christ in the Bible. He created "all things" (Colossians 1:16, NIV); He is "before all things" (verse 17, NIV); in Him "all things hold together" (verse 17, NIV); and He reconciles "all things" (verse 20, NIV).

Today's devotional draws attention to Jesus as the "heir of all things" (Hebrews 1:2, NIV). An heir is someone to whom something is morally or legally due. In the Old Testament, heirship occupies a prominent place. There are over eighteen references to heirship throughout the Bible. In the Mosaic system, laws were enacted to deal with the privileges and duties of heirship.

In what sense is Christ the heir of all things? God has appointed Him "heir of all things" (Hebrews 1:2, NIV). Christ Himself declared, "All that belongs to the Father is mine" (John 16:15, NIV). Because of Jesus' status and role in creation and redemption, God has made the Son heir of all things. He is heir to all riches, power, prerogatives, and privileges in the universe. He is heir to all things whether material or spiritual.

As heir of all things, Jesus has chosen to share His heirship with those who by faith follow Him in suffering and service. In His generosity, He has declared us to be "heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ" (Romans 8:17, NIV). "What a precious privilege is this, --that we may be sons and daughters of the Most High, heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ! What love, what matchless love, that, sinners and aliens as we are, we may be brought back to God, and adopted into His family!"--Review and Herald, September 27, 1906.

My Prayer Today: Lord, as heir of all things, You have shared with me Your unsearchable riches. Thank You for such generosity. Amen.