Topical Encyclopedia The concept of being "portioned" in the Bible often relates to the distribution or allocation of land, blessings, or responsibilities among individuals or groups. This term is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's sovereignty and providence in the lives of His people.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the idea of being portioned is prominently seen in the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. After the Israelites entered Canaan, the land was divided by lot as an inheritance for each tribe, as commanded by God. Joshua 14:2 states, "Their inheritance was assigned by lot for the nine and a half tribes, as the LORD had commanded through Moses." This division was not merely a matter of human decision but was seen as divinely ordained, with God Himself determining the portions. The Levites, however, were an exception in this distribution. They did not receive a portion of land like the other tribes. Instead, their portion was the Lord Himself, as stated in Deuteronomy 10:9 : "That is why Levi has no portion or inheritance among his brothers; the LORD is his inheritance, as the LORD your God promised him." This highlights a spiritual dimension to the concept of portioning, where God Himself becomes the inheritance of His people. New Testament Application In the New Testament, the idea of being portioned extends beyond physical land to spiritual blessings. Believers in Christ are described as having an inheritance in Him. Ephesians 1:11 declares, "In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will." This passage emphasizes that the portion believers receive is part of God's eternal plan, secured through Christ. The New Testament also speaks to the portioning of spiritual gifts among believers. In 1 Corinthians 12:7 , Paul writes, "Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." Here, the Holy Spirit distributes gifts to each believer, portioning them according to His will for the edification of the church. Theological Implications Theologically, the concept of being portioned underscores God's sovereignty and grace. It reflects His authority to distribute resources, responsibilities, and blessings according to His divine purpose. This allocation is not arbitrary but is part of His redemptive plan for humanity. Moreover, the idea of God Himself being the portion of His people, as seen with the Levites, points to a deeper relationship with Him. It suggests that the ultimate inheritance for believers is not material but spiritual, found in a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Practical Reflections For believers today, understanding the biblical concept of being portioned can inspire contentment and trust in God's provision. Recognizing that God has portioned each individual's life according to His perfect will can lead to a deeper reliance on Him and a commitment to using one's gifts and resources for His glory. As Psalm 16:5 beautifully expresses, "The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; You have made my lot secure." This verse encapsulates the believer's assurance in God's faithful provision and the security found in Him. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Portion.Strong's Hebrew 8544. temunah -- likeness, form... Or tmunah {tem-oo-naw'}; from miyn; something portioned (ie Fashioned) out, as a shape, ie (indefinitely) phantom, or (specifically) embodiment, or ... /hebrew/8544.htm - 6k Library Acts of the Holy Apostle Thomas. Father, I Know that all My Life A Light to Lighten the Gentiles The Waves of Time But that the Order of the Dates May be Correctly Preserved... But Since the Human Being is a Twofold Creature... The Levites Ought to be Utterly Free from all Earthly Desires. ... Petilianus Said: "Here You have the Fullest Possible Proof that a ... Concerning the Special Offices of the Gods. That from Judges who have Been Chosen, no Appeals May be Taken. Thesaurus Portioned (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (imp. & pp) of Portion. Multi-Version Concordance Portioned (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 34:17 And He hath cast ... /p/portioned.htm - 6k Describe (11 Occurrences) Cup (86 Occurrences) Portions (49 Occurrences) Portion (227 Occurrences) Resources Portioned: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Portioned (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 34:17 Subtopics Related Terms |
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