On the Fulfillment of Faith and the Inheritance of the Faithful

Having treated in the preceding lectures upon faith, the knowledge of God, His character, His unity, the necessity of sacrifice, and the consequences which follow from the exercise of faith and obedience, it now remains to consider the final fulfillment of faith, even the inheritance prepared for the faithful.

For the end of faith is not merely belief, nor even obedience, but the obtaining of the promises of God, and entrance into that state which He has prepared for those who love Him.

It is therefore necessary to understand that the promises of God are sure, and that all who remain faithful (emunah) shall obtain them.

Concerning this it is written: “He is faithful that promised.” (Hebrews 10:23)

From this it is evident that God does not fail in His word (davar), but brings to pass all that He has spoken.

It is also necessary to understand that these promises are given to those who walk in obedience to His commandments (mitzvot), and who endure in faith unto the end.

For it is written: “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10)

And again: “Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life.” (Revelation 22:14)

From these testimonies it is evident that the inheritance of the faithful is connected to obedience, and that those who keep the commandments of God shall receive the promises.

It is likewise necessary to understand that this inheritance is described in the scriptures as life, peace, and fellowship with God.

For it is written: “In thy presence is fullness of joy.” (Psalm 16:11)

And again: “They shall be my people, and I will be their God.” (Jeremiah 31:33)

From this it is evident that the ultimate blessing of faith is to dwell in the presence of God and to enjoy His favor.

It is also necessary to understand that this state is obtained only by those who are made clean through obedience and faith, for nothing unclean can dwell in His presence.

For it is written: “Who shall ascend into the hill of Yahovah? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart.” (Psalm 24:3–4)

From this it is evident that purity and righteousness are required to obtain the promises of God.

It is likewise necessary to understand that those who receive this inheritance are those who have overcome the world through faith.

For it is written: “This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” (1 John 5:4)

And again: “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me.” (Revelation 3:21)

From these testimonies it is evident that faith enables men to overcome sin, temptation, and opposition, and to remain steadfast in righteousness.

It is also necessary to understand that the Spirit (ruach) of God bears witness to those who are faithful, confirming the promises and strengthening their hope.

For it is written: “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit.” (Romans 8:16)

From this it is evident that the faithful are not left without assurance, but receive confirmation that they are accepted of God.

It is likewise necessary to understand that the promises of God extend beyond this life, and that there is a future inheritance prepared for those who remain faithful.

For it is written: “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard… the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9)

From this it is evident that the fullness of the inheritance cannot be fully comprehended in this life, but will be revealed to the faithful in the world to come.

It is also necessary to understand that those who turn away from faith and obedience cannot obtain this inheritance.

For it is written: “If any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.” (Hebrews 10:38)

From this it is evident that perseverance is required, and that only those who continue in faith unto the end shall be saved.

Therefore, the fulfillment of faith is this: that men obtain the promises of God, overcome the world, are made clean, and enter into His presence to receive life and peace.

Wherefore, it is necessary that all who seek after life and salvation should continue in faith (emunah), obedience, and endurance, that they may inherit the blessings which God has prepared.