In what ways can we live out the truths of Hebrews 9:17 daily? The verse at heart “For a will is in force only after its author has died; it is not valid while the one who made it is still alive.” – Hebrews 9:17 What the verse teaches • Christ’s death activated the New Covenant, turning promised blessings into binding realities. • Every believer is now a legal heir of God’s eternal estate (Ephesians 1:13-14; Romans 8:16-17). • Because the Will is already in force, nothing can void or diminish our inheritance (1 Peter 1:3-5). Daily implications of Christ’s validated Will • Live assured, not anxious: the inheritance is guaranteed, so reject fear about eternity. • Honor the Testator: let gratitude for His death shape every decision and conversation. • Access what is bequeathed: approach the throne confidently for grace (Hebrews 4:16). • Think like an heir, not an orphan: adopt kingdom values over earthly scarcity. Living as heirs: practical steps 1. Start each morning by thanking Jesus for signing the covenant in His blood (Luke 22:20). 2. Read Scripture as your legal paperwork—discovering rights, responsibilities, and resources. 3. Speak the family language: confess promises aloud (2 Corinthians 1:20). 4. Invest in eternal ventures—time, talents, treasure toward gospel work (Matthew 6:19-21). 5. Relate to fellow heirs with patience and honor (Ephesians 4:1-3). Dying to self—mirroring the Testator • Romans 6:11: “Count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” • Step away from old appetites; they no longer hold legal claim over you. • Choose obedience when it costs; a living sacrifice reflects the One who died (Romans 12:1). Guarding and sharing the inheritance • 2 Timothy 1:14: “Guard the treasure entrusted to you.” → Stay doctrinally sound. • Jude 3: “Contend for the faith.” → Defend gospel purity. • Matthew 28:19-20: “Go and make disciples.” → Invite others to share in the Will. Other scriptures reinforcing Hebrews 9:17 truths • Galatians 4:4-7 – adoption and heirship through Christ. • Colossians 3:1-4 – minds set on things above, because real life is hidden with Christ. • Hebrews 10:19-22 – bold access into the Most Holy Place by His blood. Today’s quick checklist □ Thank Jesus for activating the covenant. □ Read a passage that affirms your inheritance. □ Renounce one lingering “old life” habit. □ Share one gospel truth with someone else. □ Invest an act of generosity toward kingdom work. |