What is the meaning of Ezekiel 44:28? In regard to their inheritance Ezekiel is describing the Zadokite priests who will serve in the millennial temple (Ezekiel 40–48). When God speaks of “their inheritance,” He is pointing to the same principle He laid down for Levi centuries earlier (Numbers 18:20; Deuteronomy 10:9). Every other tribe received land; the priestly line received something better—direct access to God. • The land divisions in Joshua 14–19 show how tangible inheritances were allotted, underscoring the contrast here. • By specifying “their inheritance,” God highlights a unique, set-apart calling that transcends property lines (compare Joshua 13:14). I am their inheritance “ ‘I am their inheritance.’ ” This is the heart of the verse. God Himself becomes the priests’ portion. • Psalm 16:5 says, “The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup.” • Psalm 73:26 declares, “God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” • Lamentations 3:24 affirms, “The LORD is my portion… therefore I will hope in Him.” For the priest, the greatest reward is intimate fellowship with the LORD—something land, wealth, or status can never match. The promise is intensely personal: “I AM.” Relationship, not real estate, is the prize. You are to give them no possession in Israel Because the LORD Himself would supply all they needed, the priests were not to hold territorial claims. • Numbers 18:21-24 shows how tithes supported the Levites so they could focus on ministry. • Deuteronomy 18:1-2 reiterates that they would “have no portion or inheritance.” • Ezekiel 45:4-5 allocates only a holy district for their service, not for private ownership. By removing worldly entanglements, God freed these servants to devote themselves fully to worship, teaching, and intercession. Practical dependence reinforced spiritual dependence. For I am their possession The closing line restates and deepens the promise. What the priests “possess” is not stuff but Someone—Yahweh. • 1 Peter 2:9 calls believers “a royal priesthood,” echoing this same identity. • Titus 2:14 says Christ “purified for Himself a people for His own possession.” • Revelation 21:3 looks ahead to the day when God dwells with His people and they are His forever. Even today, every follower of Christ lives out this priestly reality: – We carry His presence (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). – We draw near with boldness (Hebrews 4:16). – We treasure Him above every earthly claim (Matthew 13:44-46). summary Ezekiel 44:28 teaches that God Himself is the inheritance, portion, and possession of His priests. He withholds land so they may hold Him; He restricts earthly assets to expand heavenly access. For ancient priests and modern believers alike, the greatest wealth is not what we own but Whom we know. |
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