Inheritance

A Jewish proverb from the Bible says - “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” An inheritance is something that you own because of a birthright. A birthright is a right you have because of the family or country or culture you are born into.

Do you agree that families should leave an inheritance for their children or grandchildren? Should all children share equally? Why or why not? Do you think that elderly people should try to use the money they have for pleasure in their retirement or save a lot of money for their children and grandchildren? Does your opinion stay the same when you think of yourself and when you think of your own grandparents or parents?

What have you inherited? Do you have a treasured possession passed to you by a loved one? Do you have heirs - people who will receive an inheritance from you at the time of your death? Have you made a will - a document that says who your heirs are? Is it common to make a will in your native culture? Why or why not? Have you heard of families arguing over a will? Give an example of that.

We also speak of inherited traits. What are some characteristics that you have inherited from your parents or grandparents - for example, eye or hair color, body type, certain skills or personality traits?

Some inherited traits may not be good. Do you think you can inherit a bad temper, a habit of lying or depression, alcoholism, perfectionism or other negative traits? Give examples. If your parent is an alcoholic, will you be an alcoholic? Why or why not?

Adoption is somewhat popular in the United States. When a family adopts a child, that child will then inherit the wealth of the family, along with any natural children. Is adoption popular in your native culture? Why or why not? Have you known anyone who was adopted?

The Bible talks about adoption of people by God. You keep your human family, but in addition you inherit a very, very large family of people who believe in and obey God.

“God chose us to belong to Christ before the world was created. He chose us to be holy and without blame in his eyes. He loved us. So he decided long ago to adopt us as his children” Ephesians 1:4-5

****How might God raise his children? What would it be like to consider God your father?