Numbers 18

Numbers 18:20

Numbers 18:20 Thou Shalt have no inheritance in their land.Are ministers debarred from owning property No, this was a legal ceremony, and bindeth not now more than that prohibition to drink wine (Leviticus 10:9), with such like. The yoke of the law is taken from us, and not to be reduced again. In the twenty-first chapter of Joshua, see what provision for cities and grounds for them and their cattle. The like in this Book of Numbers (chap. 35.; Jeremiah 32:8). A purchase and land and title, descent and right, by kindred and blood. Origen mentioneth rents and revenues of the Church.

Sabellicus writeth that Lucina, a noble and rich gentlewoman of Rome, made the Church her heir. Sozomen, how Constantine out of the tribute of every city gave a portion to the Churches for maintenance of their ministers. Ambrose saith that the Church’ s lands paid tribute, therefore the Church had lands. Basil saith that bishops were rich and able to give to Churches. Nicephorus telleth how the worthy Empress Theodosius’ s wife adorned the bishop’ s house with all goodly furniture, and gave a yearly revenue. Thus have not all ages and persons dealt sparingly or grudgingly with their clergy; but both thought them worthy respect, and most worthily respected them in their maintenance and otherwise. (Bp.

Babington.).