I was one of the speakers at this year’s edition of Making Sense of Scriptures Conference. In my last session, I taught some guidelines for interpreting scriptures. Part of the problem we see among believers in interpreting scriptures is either trying to import Judaism into the faith of Jesus, attempting to appropriate promises meant for the future, or pushing to a later time what God wants us to enjoy now. In one of his epistles, Peter noted that we have been given everything for sustenance and godly existence possible. “For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).” 2 Peter 1:3 AMPC. If we interpret this scripture that a good life is only for the next world, we will shortchange ourselves.

There is a form of inheritance that we can enjoy now, and there is one that Peter noted that is reserved for us in heaven…Believers should strive not to sacrifice one on the altar of the other.

On the other hand, if we think that all good things must be received here and now, we may join the unbelievers in the rat race. So we need balance. We must understand that there are two types of inheritance. There is a form of inheritance that we can enjoy now, and there is one that Peter noted that is reserved for us in heaven. He said we have been called “to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,” I Peter 1:4 NKJV. The word of God teaches moderation in this present world and promises a lavish reward in the world to come. Believers should strive not to sacrifice one on the altar of the other.