God’s original plan was for humanity to lovingly rule creation alongside himself. Through the fall and sin, all of creation was brought into entropy. All things decline and lead to death.

Through the death and resurrection of Jesus, humanity and creation have a possibility for a new, better future. Romans 8:19-23 speaks of how all creation has been subjected to this corruption and desperately waits for the sons of God, the new creation Christians, to be revealed. At some point, God will recreate all heaven and earth.

In Revelation 20:6, it is proclaimed, “Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years.”

Reflecting the original design, the people of the resurrection will be given ruling authority in the New Heaven and New Earth under the guidance of the Father. As God’s children, Christians are co-heirs with Jesus, the King of Kings and the High Priest. Believers will share in God’s glory and rule with righteousness and justice.

This gives believers hope and encouragement. As they anticipate the fulfillment of God’s kingdom, Christians are inspired to live with purpose and dedication, striving to faithfully serve God and his people in anticipation of the eternal rewards that await them. Additionally, Christians should spread this Good News since the offer is available for all (John 3:16).

While animals or other created beings might have a taste of these abilities, only humanity has been made in the image of God. This image-bearing characteristic serves as the foundation of how different humankind is to every other created being, even angels. While angels are spirits like God, our future is to rule them in heaven (1 Corinthians 6:3).

Humanity’s distinction is both a privilege and a responsibility. God holds us accountable. Our only hope for fulfilling our calling in this world and the next is through complete reliance upon the Father through the Spirit and the Son. Let’s live lives of repentance, faith, and trust, knowing he has great things for us in his love.

Peace.