Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Concept The concept of God's possession refers to the belief that all creation, including humanity, belongs to God. This idea is rooted in the understanding of God as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. As the sovereign Lord, God claims ownership over all that exists, and this ownership is both a privilege and a responsibility for those who acknowledge it.
Biblical Foundation The Bible consistently affirms God's ownership over creation. In
Genesis 1:1, the foundational statement, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth," establishes God as the Creator.
Psalm 24:1 further declares, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein." This verse underscores the comprehensive nature of God's possession, extending to the earth and all its inhabitants.
God's People as His Possession The concept of God's possession is particularly significant concerning His people. In the Old Testament, Israel is described as God's treasured possession.
Exodus 19:5 states, "Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine." This covenantal relationship highlights the special status of Israel as belonging uniquely to God.
In the New Testament, this idea is expanded to include all believers in Christ.
1 Peter 2:9 affirms, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." Here, the church is identified as God's possession, called to live in a way that reflects His character and purposes.
Implications for Believers Recognizing oneself as God's possession carries profound implications for believers. It calls for a life of holiness, obedience, and service.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds believers, "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." This passage emphasizes the responsibility to live in a manner that honors God, acknowledging His ownership.
Stewardship and Accountability As God's possession, believers are entrusted with the stewardship of their lives and resources. This stewardship is an acknowledgment of God's ultimate ownership and a commitment to use what has been given for His glory.
Matthew 25:14-30, the Parable of the Talents, illustrates the expectation of faithful stewardship and the accountability that comes with it.
Eternal Security and Assurance The concept of being God's possession also provides assurance and security for believers.
Ephesians 1:13-14 speaks of the Holy Spirit as a seal and guarantee of our inheritance, "In Him, you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in Him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession, to the praise of His glory." This sealing signifies God's claim and protection over His people, ensuring their ultimate redemption.
Conclusion The theme of God's possession is woven throughout Scripture, affirming God's rightful ownership over all creation and His people. It calls believers to a life of devotion, stewardship, and assurance, rooted in the understanding of their identity as belonging to God.