The concept of divine ownership of the land is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing that the earth and all it contains belong to God. This principle is foundational to understanding the relationship between God, humanity, and the land.

Creation and Sovereignty

The Bible begins with the assertion of God's sovereignty over creation. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational verse establishes God as the Creator and ultimate owner of all things. Psalm 24:1 further reinforces this idea: "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein."

The Promised Land

The concept of divine ownership is particularly evident in the narrative of the Promised Land. God promised the land of Canaan to Abraham and his descendants as an everlasting possession (Genesis 17:8). However, this promise was contingent upon the Israelites' obedience to God's commandments. Leviticus 25:23 underscores God's ownership: "The land must not be sold permanently, because it is Mine, and you are but foreigners and sojourners with Me."

Sabbath and Jubilee

The laws of the Sabbath year and the Year of Jubilee further illustrate divine ownership. Every seventh year, the land was to have a Sabbath rest (Leviticus 25:4), and every fiftieth year, the Year of Jubilee, the land was to be returned to its original owners (Leviticus 25:10). These practices served as reminders that the land belonged to God and that the Israelites were stewards rather than absolute owners.

Prophetic Warnings and Exile

The prophets frequently reminded Israel of God's ownership of the land and warned of the consequences of disobedience. The exile of the Israelites to Babylon was a direct result of their failure to honor God's laws, including those related to the land. 2 Chronicles 36:21 notes that the land enjoyed its Sabbaths during the exile, fulfilling the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the theme of divine ownership is expanded to include the entire earth as part of God's redemptive plan through Christ. Colossians 1:16-17 affirms, "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible... all things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together."

Stewardship and Responsibility

The biblical principle of divine ownership calls for responsible stewardship. Humanity is entrusted with the care of the earth, as seen in Genesis 2:15, where Adam is placed in the Garden of Eden "to work it and take care of it." This stewardship is a sacred duty, reflecting God's authority and care for His creation.

Eschatological Fulfillment

The ultimate fulfillment of divine ownership is seen in the eschatological vision of a new heaven and a new earth. Revelation 21:1 describes this renewed creation, where God's sovereignty is fully realized, and His people dwell with Him eternally. This vision underscores the enduring truth that the earth is the Lord's, and His purposes will ultimately prevail.