August 3

The Right to Holy Things

But if a priest buys a slave with his own money, or if a slave is born in his household, that slave may eat his food. — Lev 22:11 BSB

Strangers, sojourners, and hired servants were not allowed to eat of holy things. This remains true in spiritual matters today. However, two groups are welcome at the sacred table: those who were bought with the priest’s money and those born into the priest’s household. “Bought” and “born” are the two clear proofs of a right to partake of holy things.

Bought: Our great High Priest, Jesus, has purchased with His own blood all who trust in Him. We are His absolute property—completely belonging to the Lord. Not for who we are, but for our Owner’s sake, we are granted the privileges He enjoys, and “we shall eat of His meat.” He has spiritual sustenance the world cannot understand. “Because you belong to Christ,” you will share in His blessings.

Born: This is another sure claim to privilege. If born into the priest’s house, we take our place with the rest of the family. Regeneration makes us fellow heirs with Christ, giving us access to the peace, joy, and glory given to Him by the Father. Through both redemption and regeneration, we are given a double claim to the divine blessings in this promise.