This chapter continues describing the new temple and its surrounding areas, including sections of land for the priests and prince(s).
” ‘And to the prince shall belong the land on both sides of the holy district and the property of the city, alongside the holy district and the property of the city, on the west and on the east, corresponding in length to one of the tribal portions, and extending from the western to the eastern boundary of the land. It is to be his property in Israel. And my princes shall no more oppress my people, but they shall let the house of Israel have the land according to their tribes.’ ” (v7-8)
Notice how God’s people will have princes, but will no longer have kings? That’s because Jesus is their (future) King, the way God originally intended. This makes even more sense if we continue assuming this temple and its grounds take place during ‘Jesus’ Millennial Kingdom’. As a reminder, God only allowed human kings for His people as a concession for their rebellion / sin, not because He desired these flawed overseers for them (because past / present history proves human don’t rule each other very well…).
Originally, God ordained Himself to be King over all of mankind, and made us stewards over all of creation (see Gen 2). God then allowed humans to ‘rule themselves’ as a result of mankind’s sinful and rebellious nature (see 1 Sam 8). One day God will fully restore the rightful and intended order, putting Jesus on His throne as King, and we will essentially be co-rulers / stewards within His kingdom (see Rev 20:4-6).
Let’s strive to be God’s obedient and faithful servants, seek His leadership first and foremost, and humbly submit ourselves under Jesus’ sovereign rule. Let’s also be good and faithful stewards over God’s creation, for that was our original (and future) calling.
Father God, our Sovereign Creator, You alone are our Lord and Ruler. Jesus we proclaim Your kingship over us, and humbly submit to Your authority. Holy Spirit please help us to remain faithful stewards and servants, taking our ordained place in the Kingdom of God. All power, glory, praise, and obedience be unto You O Lord, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training