The Last Will and Testament of Jesus Christ

Introduction

Will you or have you already received an inheritance? Do you have a will? If not, do you need one? Analogy of preparing a will (covenant, testament, will) – use this to illustrate Biblical principles that are misunderstood. We can partake in the most precious inheritance, or we can err (Colossians 1:12).

Colossians 1:9-14 KJV - 9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard [it], do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; 12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated [us] into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, [even] the forgiveness of sins:

Outline of Biblical Usage

1. an object used in casting or drawing lots, which was either a pebble, or a potsherd, or a bit of wood
   1. the lots of several persons concerned, inscribed with their names, were thrown together into a vase, which was then shaken, and he whose lot fell out first upon the ground was the one chosen
2. what is obtained by lot, allotted portion
   1. a portion of the ministry common to the apostles
      1. used of the part which one will have in eternal salvation
      2. of salvation itself
      3. the eternal salvation which God has assigned to the saints
3. of persons
   1. those whose care and oversight has been assigned to one [allotted charge], used of Christian churches, the administration of which falls to the lot of presbyters

Drafting a will

1. Generally testator can draft however s/he wants. Public policy exceptions (e.g., cannot marry, no illegal activity, pet gifts). Some conditions ok (e.g., graduate college and age 25). 2. Jesus’ power (Matthew 9:6, John 10:17-18). 3. Conditions on our inheritance (Acts 2:38; Revelation 2:10). 4. Error – predestination [(Ephesians 1:4-14) those who trust and believe]; faith only (James 2:24); “Once saved, Always saved” (2 Peter 3:17-18).

Revisions

1. Only testator can change will; No changes after testator dies. No other gospel (Galatians 1:6-9, 3:15-18). 2. New will invalidates any previous will. New covenant made the old obsolete (Hebrews 8:13). 3. Error – Keeping parts of Law of Moses (Romans 7:4-6); subsequent revelations (Jude 3).

Timeframe

1. Takes effect upon death. Must be death of testator (Hebrews 9:16-17). 2. Inter vivos (takes effect during lifetimes of parties involved; between living persons) gift (Luke 23:39-43). 3. Error – Claiming ineligible inter vivos gift (Luke 23:39-43); Inheritance from another testator (Galatians 1:8-9).

Executing will

1. Executor – Carries out will of testator; close out estate. God is the executor (Romans 14:10-12, John 6:38). 2. In terrorem clause or No Contest Clause – Forfeit any inheritance if contest. Cannot contest God’s will (Deuteronomy 4:2, Revelation 22:18-19). 3. Error – Using different executor; Contesting God’s will (John 14:6, 17:17). Our inheritance? 1. By definition, an inheritance is not earned—it is a gift (Romans 5:15-18, 6:23, Ephesians 2:8). 2. Heaven is the ultimate inheritance (1 Peter 1:3-4) – Imperishable, undefiled, unfading, in heaven. 3. Conditions of the inheritance (Matthew 7:21-24; Revelation 21:7-8) 4. The unrighteous will not inherit (1 Corinthians 6:9-11, Galatians 5:19-21). 5. All have the right to become Children of God (John 1:12-13).

Conclusion

What about you? Do want to inherit eternal life in Heaven? Notice a beautiful passage in Galatians 3:26-29. All can become a child of God and of Abraham’s seed! Why not repent of your sins and be baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit for the forgiveness of your sins! That is how you put on Christ and become an heir according to God’s promises. Please check the scriptures we have covered tonight. We want to help you in any way we can. Contact us for Bible studies, by telephone, e-mail, or simply come to one of our assemblies. We also hope to see you next time on "Speaking The Truth In Love". Our next live program is planned for Monday, October 5, 2015 when we hope to study the topic of "It Is A Great Time To Be A Christian!”