What does being a joint heir with Christ mean for suffering and glory?
Being a joint heir with Christ means the believer shares fully in God's inheritance alongside Jesus. That joint-heir relationship may include suffering with Him, and it may also include experiencing glorification with Him. The same union with Christ that brings suffering also brings the prospect of sharing His glory.
Les explains that if we are true sons of God by saving faith, we are heirs—not of some rich grandfather or corporation president, but heirs of God. He then tightens it: we are joint heirs with Jesus Christ. Les illustrates joint heirship with owning a home or property: both owners have rights to it, and if one passes off the scene, the property belongs to the one left behind, regardless of which one goes first. The whole concept of joint heirship is part and parcel of the Christian experience: we are heirs of God because we are joint heirs with Jesus Christ. That may mean we will suffer with Him, and we may also experience that glorification with Him. Galatians agrees, saying we are no more a slave but a son, an heir of God through Christ.
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
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What does it mean that believers are joint heirs with Jesus Christ?
Believers are not only heirs of God but joint heirs with Jesus Christ.