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Chapter 15: Partakers of the Divine Nature

Supernatural

January 10, 2021 • Chris Reighley

Supernatural:
What the Bible Teaches about the Unseen World—And Why It Matters

by Dr. Michael S. Heiser

Uncover the Supernatural in the Bible

Introduction: From Children of Dust to Children of Glory

What does it mean to be in Christ? More than forgiven, more than saved—Scripture declares we are partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). This is not mythology or mysticism—it is the bold promise of transformation into the likeness of Jesus, culminating in glorification.

In this chapter, Dr. Michael Heiser explores the cosmic inheritance of the believer. God’s plan to restore Eden involves more than reclaiming territory—it involves restoring His family. Through Christ, we are adopted as sons and daughters, given a new identity, a new destiny, and a new authority.

This is the ultimate reversal of the fall. Humanity, once lower than the angels (Hebrews 2:7), will one day rule with Christ and even judge the angels (1 Cor. 6:3). We are not mere bystanders in God’s cosmic drama—we are heirs with Christ, destined to reign with Him in the restored creation.

This lesson invites you to remember who you are in Christ, to anticipate who you will become, and to live now as one who bears divine image and divine promise.

Chapter Outline: Partakers of the Divine Nature

I. Identity in Christ

A. Not of This World
  • John 17:16 – “They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.”
  • Believers live in the world but belong to another kingdom.
B. Salvation by Grace Alone
  • Ephesians 2:8–9 – We are saved by grace through faith, not by works.
  • Five Solas reaffirm that our standing before God is entirely by His initiative.

II. Biblical Foundations for Divine Inheritance

A. 2 Peter 1:4
  • “Partakers of the divine nature” = Sharing in the life, holiness, and destiny of God’s family.
  • Escaping the corruption of the world through Christ’s promises.
B. 1 John 3:1–3
  • We are already God’s children—but what we will be is beyond imagining.
  • One day, “we will be like Him.”

III. The Order of Salvation (Ordo Salutis)

  1. Election – God’s sovereign choice
  2. Gospel Call – Proclamation of Christ
  3. Regeneration – Being born again
  4. Conversion – Faith and repentance
  5. Justification – Declared righteous
  6. Adoption – Brought into God’s family
  7. Sanctification – Made holy in life
  8. Perseverance – Endurance in faith
  9. Death – Presence with Christ
  10. Glorification – Resurrection and transformation

IV. Sons of God, Seed of Abraham

  • Galatians 3:6–9, 26–29 – Those of faith are sons of Abraham and heirs of promise.
  • John 1:12–13 – Believers are born of God, not of the will of man.
  • Romans 8:15–17; Galatians 4:4–7 – We are adopted sons who cry “Abba, Father.”

V. Inherited Authority and Eternal Destiny

A. We Are Heirs
  • Ephesians 1:4–14 – Predestined to adoption, sealed with the Spirit, promised inheritance.
  • Ephesians 1:18–19; Colossians 1:11–12 – Paul prays believers will understand their inheritance.
B. We Will Reign
  • 1 Cor. 6:3 – “Do you not know that we will judge angels?”
  • Revelation 2:25–28; 3:20–21 – We will reign with Christ, seated on His throne.
  • Psalm 2:7–8 – The Son will inherit the nations—and we share that inheritance.

VI. Why This Matters

  1. Our Identity Is Rooted in Eternity
    • You are not who the world says you are—you are a child of God and heir of glory.
  2. The Gospel Is More Than Forgiveness
    • It’s adoption, inheritance, transformation, and glorification.
  3. We Were Made for Dominion
    • Eden’s destiny is not lost—it’s being fulfilled in Christ through us.
  4. Our Future Shapes Our Present
    • Because we will reign, we are called to live now with purpose, holiness, and authority.
  5. God’s Family Will Be Fully Restored
    • Divine council rebellion fractured God’s heavenly family. The redeemed will take their place.

Key Scriptures

  • 2 Peter 1:4 – Partakers of the divine nature
  • John 17:16; Ephesians 2:8–9 – Identity and salvation
  • 1 John 3:1–3; Romans 8:15–17 – Adoption and future hope
  • Galatians 3:6–29 – Sons of Abraham through faith
  • Ephesians 1:3–19; Col. 1:12; Rev. 2:26–28 – Inheritance and reign
  • 1 Cor. 6:3; Psalm 2:7–8; Rev. 3:20–21 – Judgment, throne, and dominion

Reflection & Discussion Questions

  • How does knowing you’re a “partaker of the divine nature” change how you see yourself?
  • In what ways can you live more fully as one who is “not of this world”?
  • How does our future glorification shape how we approach suffering today?

Key Takeaway

  • You are not a spectator in the Kingdom of God—you are family.
  • You’ve been adopted, promised an inheritance, and destined for glory.
  • In Christ, you are a partaker of the divine nature, and that changes everything.

This study was taught by Chris Reighley to the Sunday Night Bible Study at Rolling Hills Community Church in Lago Vista, Texas in 2020

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