Yesterday we looked at the fact that we can call Him “Abba! Father!” That the Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.
Now if we are children, we are heirs – heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if, in fact, we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed to us.
Romans 8:17-18
Notice from yesterday in verse 16 and today’s verses the following structure in Paul’s sentences.
We are adopted (have the spirit of adoption)
Note the progression: heirs >> heirs of God >> co-heirs with Christ.
God has adopted us into His family, but we are not just an adopted child, we have the rights accorded the eldest son. We are heirs! All that belongs to the Father belongs to us. We are heirs of GOD!
We are co-heirs with Christ Jesus, the first born. Notice Paul has said it three times. I guess it must be important!
But then notice something else too. You share also in His sufferings. Oh dear we don’t like that one bit. “No, not the sufferings too God!” I don’t like sufferings. Can I just choose the inheritance? The nice bits I like. No the package comes with sufferings. After all that is what The Son of God “inherited” and all his true sons (and daughters) inherit sufferings too. Why? Do I need to remind you of Romans 5:3-4?
One of the sweetest reasons God saved you is because He is fond of you. He likes having you around.
Max Lucado