What does "set apart to the LORD" teach about God's ownership? Key Verse Leviticus 27:28 — “But nothing that a man sets apart to the LORD of all he owns—whether a person, an animal, or his inherited land—can be sold or redeemed; everything devoted is most holy to the LORD.” What “set apart” Means • The Hebrew term (ḥērem) speaks of something placed under a ban, completely removed from common use. • Once declared, the transfer is permanent—no buy-back clause, no loopholes. • The object becomes “most holy,” belonging to God alone in a unique, elevated way. Truths About God’s Ownership Revealed • Ownership precedes dedication. We “set apart” only what is already His by right (Psalm 24:1). • The act is public acknowledgment that God’s claim outranks every human claim. • Irrevocability underscores that God’s rights are absolute; human stewardship is temporary. • Holiness and ownership are linked: what God owns, He sanctifies; what He sanctifies, He owns. • God alone defines value. Something common gains incomparable worth when marked “to the LORD.” Supporting Scriptures • Exodus 13:2 — “Consecrate to Me every firstborn… it is Mine.” • Haggai 2:8 — “‘The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine,’ declares the LORD of Hosts.” • 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 — “…you are not your own; you were bought at a price.” • Romans 12:1 — “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” • 1 Peter 2:9 — “…a people for God’s own possession…” Practical Implications for Us Today • Hold possessions, plans, and even relationships with open hands; they belong to God first. • Treat what is dedicated—tithes, offerings, time for ministry, talents—as “most holy,” not negotiable extras. • Recognize your own life is “set apart” by redemption; live distinctly, refusing to reclaim what was laid on the altar. • Celebrate freedom in stewardship: because God owns it all, the pressure of ultimate control lifts from us. Stewardship, Not Possession • We manage resources but never truly own them. • Faithfulness is measured by how well we honor God’s prior claim. • Every decision becomes an act of worship when filtered through “This is the LORD’s.” A Life Marked “Set Apart to the LORD” • Begins with surrender—acknowledging His rightful ownership. • Continues with daily choices that keep nothing off-limits. • Ends with the assurance that what belongs to Him is eternally secure and gloriously used for His purposes. |
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