SATURDAY January 24, 2026

The Death of the Testator

For where there is a testament, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is in force after men are dead, since it has no power at all while the testator lives.
Hebrews 9:16-17

To understand better what is being conveyed by the writer of the book of Hebrews, I want you to think about a last will and testament. The document remains inactive until the person dies, since it has no power at all while the person lives. In other words, the will is not effective until the person dies.

It is the same principle for a testament to be enforced. It is only after the testator dies that it becomes effective––only then is it enforced––since it has no power at all while the testator lives. Therefore, because of this, Jesus Christ had to come and die on the Cross so that the testament of love, grace and mercy would become effective in each one of our lives.

Since Christ’s death, what is written in the New Testament has now taken effect. In the first three chapters of the book of Ephesians is where you can read the incredible, spiritual benefits of our inheritance in Christ. Jesus accomplished so much on our behalf. Consider these Scriptures from the book of Ephesians, as they have much to say about our position in Christ:

Ephesians 1:7: In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace....

Ephesians 1:13: In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise....

Christians who do not read the Bible in its entirety are often unaware of the spiritual riches that they have in Christ. Take time today to read through the first three chapters of the book of Ephesians, and you will find reason to rejoice.

Oh, joy above all joys, to know that I am his everlasting and inalienable inheritance, given to Him by His Father or ever the earth was! Everlasting love shall be the pillow for my head this night.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!