Leviticus 20:24

But I have told you that you will inherit their land, since I will give it to you as an inheritance--a land flowing with milk and honey. I am the LORD your God, who has set you apart from the peoples.

Study Bible

But I have told you
This phrase emphasizes the direct communication from God to the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "told" is "אָמַר" (amar), which signifies a declaration or command. This highlights the authority and certainty of God's promise. Historically, this reflects the covenant relationship where God speaks directly to His chosen people, underscoring His role as a guiding and sovereign deity.

You will inherit their land
The concept of inheritance here is rooted in the Hebrew word "נָחַל" (nachal), which means to receive as a possession. This inheritance is not merely a transfer of property but a divine bequest, signifying God's sovereign will. Archaeologically, this reflects the ancient Near Eastern practices where land was a crucial part of identity and survival, and inheriting land was seen as a divine blessing.

since I will give it to you to possess
The phrase "give it to you" is derived from the Hebrew "נָתַן" (natan), meaning to bestow or grant. This indicates that the land is a gift from God, not earned by the Israelites' merit but by His grace. "To possess" comes from "יָרַשׁ" (yarash), meaning to take possession or occupy. This implies an active role for the Israelites in claiming what God has provided, reflecting the partnership between divine providence and human responsibility.

a land flowing with milk and honey
This phrase is a metaphorical expression denoting abundance and prosperity. "Flowing" suggests an overflowing, continuous supply, while "milk and honey" symbolize fertility and sweetness. Historically, this description paints a picture of Canaan as a place of rich resources, contrasting with the Israelites' previous life in Egypt. It serves as a motivational promise, encouraging faith and obedience.

I am the LORD your God
This declaration is foundational, with "LORD" translating the sacred name "YHWH" (Yahweh), emphasizing God's eternal and self-existent nature. "Your God" personalizes the relationship, affirming the covenant bond. This phrase is a reminder of God's authority and faithfulness, calling the Israelites to exclusive worship and trust in Him.

who has set you apart from the peoples
"Set you apart" comes from the Hebrew "בָּדַל" (badal), meaning to separate or distinguish. This denotes holiness and consecration, indicating that the Israelites are chosen for a unique purpose. Historically, this separation was both physical and spiritual, as they were to live according to God's laws, distinct from surrounding nations. This reflects the call to holiness and the responsibility of being God's representatives on earth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, whom He is addressing in this passage, promising them the land of Canaan.

2. The Land of Canaan
Described as "a land flowing with milk and honey," symbolizing abundance and God's provision.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God who has set the Israelites apart for His purposes.

4. The Peoples (Nations)
The surrounding nations from whom the Israelites are to be distinct and separate.

5. The Inheritance
The promised land that God is giving to the Israelites as a possession.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God is faithful to His promises. Just as He promised the land to the Israelites, He fulfills His promises to us today.

Being Set Apart
As believers, we are called to live distinct lives, set apart from the world, reflecting God's holiness.

Inheritance in Christ
Our ultimate inheritance is not earthly but spiritual, found in Christ and the eternal life He offers.

Trust in God's Provision
Just as the land was described as abundant, we can trust in God's provision for our needs.

Obedience and Consecration
The call to be set apart requires obedience and a commitment to live according to God's standards.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of a "land flowing with milk and honey" reflect God's character and His intentions for His people?

2. In what ways are Christians today called to be set apart from the world, and how can we practically live this out?

3. How does the concept of inheritance in Leviticus 20:24 relate to our spiritual inheritance in Christ?

4. What are some modern-day challenges that might prevent us from fully trusting in God's provision, and how can we overcome them?

5. How can the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises to the Israelites encourage us in our personal walk with Him today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:8
This verse also describes the land of Canaan as "flowing with milk and honey," emphasizing God's promise to deliver the Israelites from Egypt to this abundant land.

Deuteronomy 7:6
Highlights the concept of being set apart as a holy people to the LORD, reinforcing the idea of separation from other nations.

1 Peter 2:9
In the New Testament, believers are described as a chosen people, a royal priesthood, echoing the theme of being set apart for God's purposes.

Joshua 1:6
God commands Joshua to be strong and courageous as he leads the Israelites to inherit the land, fulfilling the promise made in Leviticus 20:24.

Hebrews 11:8-10
Abraham's faith in God's promise of a land for his descendants connects to the fulfillment of that promise in Leviticus.