What Is The Difference Between Entering And Inheriting The Kingdom?
Understanding the Difference: Entering vs. Inheriting the Kingdom
The concepts of “entering” and “inheriting” the Kingdom of God are both found in Scripture, yet they carry distinct nuances that are important for believers to grasp. By exploring the biblical passages and context, we can uncover the significance of each term and their implications for the Christian life.
1. Entering the Kingdom: The Gift of Salvation
To “enter” the Kingdom of God refers to gaining access or being granted entry into God’s reign—ultimately, salvation and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. This is a foundational promise in the gospel, emphasizing grace and God’s initiative. Jesus spoke directly about entering the Kingdom:
Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except one be born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God. - John 3:3 ASV
Here, “entering” the Kingdom is contingent upon being “born again”—a spiritual rebirth made possible through personal faith in Christ. The New Testament repeatedly affirms that entrance is not earned by works but received as a gift of grace:
For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, that no man should glory. - Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV
In summary, “entering” the Kingdom is about receiving salvation and being transferred from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light (Colossians 1:13 ASV).
2. Inheriting the Kingdom: The Reward of Faithful Living
While all believers “enter” the Kingdom by faith, “inheriting” the Kingdom adds a further dimension—inheritance relates to rewards, positions, or privileges bestowed upon faithful believers. This concept is rooted in sonship and the promises God gives to His children:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may also be glorified with him. - Romans 8:17 ASV
The language of “inheritance” in Scripture often points to a future reward connected to perseverance, obedience, and holiness. For example, Paul warns believers about behaviors that can lead to forfeiting inheritance—not entrance—into the Kingdom:
Or know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with men, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. - 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 ASV
It’s important to note that these warnings are addressed to professing Christians, emphasizing the seriousness of living in unrepentant sin. The mainstream interpretation is that while entrance to the Kingdom is a matter of faith in Christ, inheritance is a matter of faithful living and reward. The parables of Jesus, such as the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30 ASV), reinforce this distinction between being a servant (having entered) and being a faithful servant (receiving a reward).
3. Key Distinctions and Scriptural Support
- Entrance: By faith in Christ alone, a gift of God’s grace (John 3:16 ASV).
- Inheritance: Linked to obedience and faithfulness, received as a reward (Colossians 3:23-24 ASV).
Some theologians suggest that “inheriting” can refer to the experience of the fullness of the Kingdom’s blessings—both now and in the future. While all believers are citizens of the Kingdom, not all may share equally in its rewards.
4. Living in Light of Both Realities
The practical application is profound: Salvation is secure for those who believe, but our daily choices matter for our future inheritance. This motivates believers to pursue holiness, knowing that God rewards faithfulness (2 Corinthians 5:10 ASV).
And every one that hath left houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and shall inherit eternal life. - Matthew 19:29 ASV
While “eternal life” is a gift, Scripture shows that there are also rewards connected to sacrifice and faithfulness. Thus, entering the Kingdom is about our position in Christ; inheriting the Kingdom is about our participation in Christ’s future reign.
Conclusion
In summary, the Bible makes a distinction between entering and inheriting the Kingdom. Entrance is by grace through faith—a gift, while inheritance relates to our faithfulness and obedience. This distinction should encourage assurance in salvation and diligence in sanctification.