Ezekiel 44:28

In regard to their inheritance, I am their inheritance. You are to give them no possession in Israel, for I am their possession.

Study Bible

In regard to their inheritance
This phrase refers to the specific portion or allotment given to the Levitical priests. In ancient Israel, the tribes received land as their inheritance, but the Levites were set apart for priestly duties and did not receive a land inheritance like the other tribes. This reflects their unique role and calling within the community, emphasizing their dependence on God rather than material wealth.

I am their inheritance
God Himself is the inheritance of the priests, signifying a special relationship and privilege. This highlights the spiritual nature of their calling, where their reward is not material but relational and spiritual. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are described as having an inheritance in Christ (Ephesians 1:11), pointing to a deeper spiritual fulfillment.

You are to give them no possession in Israel
This command underscores the distinct role of the Levites, who were to rely on the offerings and provisions given by the other tribes. It also emphasizes the principle of divine provision, where God ensures the needs of His servants are met through the community's support. This arrangement fosters a sense of unity and interdependence among the tribes.

for I am their possession
God being their possession signifies a profound spiritual truth: the ultimate reward and fulfillment for the priests is found in their relationship with God. This foreshadows the New Covenant, where believers are called to find their identity and inheritance in Christ. It also reflects the idea of God as the ultimate source of satisfaction and security, transcending earthly possessions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites.

2. The Levitical Priests
Specifically addressed in this passage, they are set apart for service to God and are given no land inheritance.

3. Israel
The nation to whom the laws and statutes are given, including the distribution of land.

4. The Temple
The central place of worship and service for the priests, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

5. The Babylonian Exile
The historical context in which Ezekiel prophesied, a time of judgment and hope for restoration.

Teaching Points

God as Our Inheritance
Just as the Levitical priests were to find their inheritance in God, believers today are called to find their ultimate satisfaction and identity in Him.

Spiritual Priorities
The absence of a physical inheritance for the priests emphasizes the importance of spiritual over material wealth. Believers are encouraged to prioritize their relationship with God above earthly possessions.

Service and Dedication
The priests' role was one of service and dedication to God. Christians are called to serve God wholeheartedly, recognizing that their true reward is in Him.

Identity in Christ
As believers, our identity is rooted in being a royal priesthood. This identity calls us to live lives that reflect God's holiness and purpose.

Trust in God's Provision
The priests' reliance on God for their needs teaches us to trust in God's provision, knowing that He is faithful to supply all our needs according to His riches in glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of God being our inheritance challenge or encourage you in your current life circumstances?

2. In what ways can you prioritize your spiritual inheritance over material possessions in your daily life?

3. How does understanding your identity as part of a "royal priesthood" influence your actions and decisions?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to trust God for provision. How did that experience strengthen your faith?

5. How can the example of the Levitical priests inspire you to serve God and others more faithfully in your community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 18:20
This verse parallels Ezekiel 44:28, where God tells Aaron that he will have no inheritance in the land because God Himself is his portion.

Deuteronomy 10:9
This passage reiterates that the Levites have no share in the land because the Lord is their inheritance.

1 Peter 2:9
This New Testament verse connects the priesthood of believers to the concept of being set apart for God, similar to the Levitical priests.

Psalm 16:5
David speaks of the Lord as his portion, reflecting the spiritual inheritance theme.

Hebrews 9:11-12
Discusses Christ as the high priest, fulfilling and surpassing the Levitical priesthood.