Ezekiel 48:29

This is the land you are to allot as an inheritance to the tribes of Israel, and these will be their portions," declares the Lord GOD.

Study Bible

This is the land you are to allot as an inheritance to the tribes of Israel
This phrase refers to the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel. The concept of land as an inheritance is deeply rooted in the Abrahamic covenant, where God promised Abraham that his descendants would inherit the land of Canaan (Genesis 15:18-21). The allotment of land signifies God's faithfulness to His promises and His desire for each tribe to have a specific portion. This division is reminiscent of the earlier distribution of land under Joshua (Joshua 13-19), emphasizing continuity in God's plan for Israel. The land is not just a physical territory but a symbol of God's covenant relationship with His people.

and these will be their portions,”
The term "portions" indicates the specific areas designated for each tribe. This distribution is detailed in Ezekiel 48, where each tribe receives a portion of land. The use of "portions" underscores the fairness and orderliness of God's provision, ensuring that each tribe has a rightful place in the land. This reflects the biblical principle of justice and equity, as seen in the Jubilee laws (Leviticus 25), where land was to be returned to its original family owners every fifty years. The concept of portions also points to the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ, as each believer receives a unique role and place in the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

declares the Lord GOD.
This phrase emphasizes the authority and sovereignty of God in the distribution of the land. The use of "declares" signifies a divine decree, underscoring that the allotment is not a human decision but a fulfillment of God's will. The title "Lord GOD" (YHWH Elohim) highlights God's covenantal name, reminding the Israelites of His eternal nature and His role as the supreme ruler. This declaration assures the Israelites of the certainty and unchangeability of God's promises. It also points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom, where Christ, as the King of kings, will reign over a restored creation (Revelation 21:1-4).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile who received visions and messages from God concerning the future of Israel and the restoration of the land.

2. Tribes of Israel
The twelve tribes descended from the sons of Jacob, each receiving a portion of the Promised Land as their inheritance.

3. The Land
Refers to the Promised Land, which God had promised to Abraham and his descendants, symbolizing God's faithfulness and covenant with Israel.

4. Inheritance
The division of the land among the tribes, representing God's provision and the fulfillment of His promises.

5. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and covenant-keeping God who declares and ensures the fulfillment of His promises to His people.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God's promises are sure and steadfast. Just as He promised the land to Israel, He fulfills His promises to us today.

Inheritance in Christ
As believers, we have an inheritance in Christ that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for us.

Unity and Diversity
The division of the land among the tribes highlights both the unity and diversity within the body of Christ. Each tribe had a unique portion, yet all were part of God's people.

Covenant Relationship
Our relationship with God is based on His covenant promises. We are called to live in obedience and faithfulness, trusting in His provision.

Hope for Restoration
Just as Israel looked forward to the restoration of their land, we look forward to the ultimate restoration and renewal of all things in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the division of the land among the tribes of Israel reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we see our spiritual inheritance in Christ as similar to the physical inheritance of the land for Israel?

3. How does the concept of inheritance in Ezekiel 48:29 encourage us to live with hope and purpose today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the unity and diversity of the tribes of Israel in relation to the church today?

5. How can we apply the principles of God's covenant relationship with Israel to our personal walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12
God's promise to Abraham about giving his descendants the land, establishing the foundation for the inheritance described in Ezekiel.

Joshua 13-21
The initial division of the land among the tribes of Israel, which Ezekiel's vision echoes and expands upon.

Revelation 21
The vision of the New Jerusalem, symbolizing the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises and the eternal inheritance of His people.