“We have obtained an inheritance in Christ.” (Ephesians 1:11)
The story of the daughters of Zelophehad in Numbers 27:1-11 is a powerful foreshadowing of Jesus, our inheritance-giver. These five women—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—boldly stood before Moses and the leaders of Israel, asking for their father’s inheritance. Their courage not only secured their family’s portion in the Promised Land but also led to a divine decree that ensured justice for future generations. This passage beautifully illustrates how Jesus secures our eternal inheritance in Him.
1. The Daughters of Zelophehad and Their Bold Request
The daughters of Zelophehad were in a difficult position. Their father had died in the wilderness, and under the existing laws, only sons could inherit land. Without male heirs, their family name and inheritance would be lost. Refusing to accept this injustice, they approached Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the leaders at the entrance of the Tabernacle and said:
“Why should the name of our father be removed from his clan because he had no son? Give us a possession among our father’s brothers.” (Numbers 27:4)
These women displayed faith, courage, and a deep understanding of God’s justice. They did not rebel or demand rights in anger. Instead, they humbly brought their case before God’s appointed leaders, trusting in divine fairness.
2. God’s Response – A New Law for Inheritance
Moses took their case before the Lord, and God responded with a groundbreaking ruling:
“The daughters of Zelophehad are right. You shall surely give them a possession of inheritance among their father’s brothers and cause the inheritance of their father to pass to them.” (Numbers 27:7)
This moment changed history. God established a new law that allowed daughters to inherit when there were no sons. It was a revelation of God’s justice and inclusivity—He ensures that no one is left out of their inheritance. This mirrors what Jesus does for us spiritually.
3. Jesus, Our True Inheritance-Giver
Just as the daughters of Zelophehad had to stand before the mediator (Moses) to request their inheritance, we stand before our true Mediator, Jesus (1 Timothy 2:5). The inheritance we seek is not merely land or wealth but eternal life, righteousness, and the kingdom of God.
Paul affirms this in Ephesians 1:11:
“In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will.”
Without Jesus, we have no legal right to God’s promises. Sin had disqualified us from an inheritance. But through His death and resurrection, Christ secured for us an eternal portion in the kingdom of heaven.
4. Faith Overcomes Obstacles – The Power of Bold Petition
The story of Zelophehad’s daughters also teaches us about the power of faith-filled petition. They did not let cultural norms or fear keep them from asking for their inheritance. Likewise, we must boldly approach God in faith:
“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)
Jesus encourages us to ask and seek the things of the Kingdom. If these five women could ask for a physical inheritance, how much more should we boldly claim the spiritual inheritance Jesus secured for us!
5. The Inheritance of the Redeemed – Our Eternal Promise
Just as the daughters of Zelophehad secured an earthly inheritance, we have a far greater inheritance through Christ. This inheritance includes:
- Eternal Life – “The gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)
- Righteousness – “He has made us accepted in the Beloved.” (Ephesians 1:6)
- The Holy Spirit – “The Holy Spirit is the guarantee of our inheritance.” (Ephesians 1:13-14)
- Heavenly Rewards – “Great is your reward in heaven.” (Matthew 5:12)
- Reigning with Christ – “If we endure, we will also reign with Him.” (2 Timothy 2:12)
Through faith in Jesus, we receive all the riches of God’s grace. He is our true inheritance-giver, ensuring that we are not forgotten, left out, or denied access to His promises.
Conclusion: Stand Boldly in Christ!
The story of Zelophehad’s daughters is not just about land—it’s about God’s heart for justice, His willingness to hear our petitions, and the way He secures our inheritance.
Jesus is the greater Moses, our true Mediator who pleads our case before the Father. Through Him, we are not forgotten or disqualified—we are co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17)!
Just as these women boldly stood before Moses, we too must stand in faith, knowing that our inheritance is secured in Jesus. He has already won it for us—now we simply receive it by faith!
