Refuting The Entitled Series

When it comes to possessing the land, we can’t just stand around waiting for someone to hand it to us. The same is true for those who are drawn to the work of God in our church and who want to partner with us. When we begin making an impact for the kingdom, and as we start leading others to assist us in claiming the land, we will probably have to remind some people that ministry involves hard work; and if someone is seeking to rise in the ranks of leadership, that person may need to be reminded that positions are not handed out, but earned.

Some people tend to believe that kingdom opportunities should fall right into their lap. Perhaps they were once the popular kid in school. Maybe they came from a well-known family in the community, or were at one time involved in a well-known ministry before joining our fellowship. These individuals may expect influence and opportunities to be handed to them simply because of who they are; or perhaps, demand a position based on past experience and prior accomplishment. These expectations are based on entitlement thinking.

Allow me to share a definition of entitlement: “An entitlement is a guarantee of access to benefits based on . . . concepts of social equality or enfranchisement. In a casual sense, the term ‘entitlement’ refers to a notion or belief that one (or oneself) is deserving of some particular reward or benefit”(1) – and let me tell you entitlement, and the notion of being deserving, is rampant in America.

When Benjamin Franklin stated that people are endowed by their Creator with certain rights such as, “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,”(2) he did not have in mind free handouts. The key phrase is “the pursuit.” We are all given an equal opportunity and the freedom to “pursue” these rights and obtain them; and in the same manner, the Promised Land must be pursued in order to gain spiritual territory. Some believers, however, will squander their opportunity, stand around twiddling their thumbs, and meet with defeat.

So, let’s go ahead and get started with verses 14-15 of our passage; and, for a change, I’m going to be reading from the New Living Translation, as I like the way it’s worded for this particular passage.

Some People Feel Deserving (vv. 14-15)

14 The descendants of Joseph came to Joshua and asked, “Why have you given us only one portion of land as our homeland when the Lord has blessed us with so many people?” 15 Joshua replied, “If there are so many of you, and if the hill country of Ephraim is not large enough for you, clear out land for yourselves in the forest where the Perizzites and Rephaites live.”

So, let’s begin by focusing on verse 14. At this point, the people had conquered Canaan; and so, Joshua began dividing the land among the tribes of Israel. The descendants of Joseph approached Joshua demanding more than just one allotment in the Promised Land; thus, demonstrating an entitlement attitude. They claimed to have numerous people within their tribe; therefore, requiring more land. And at first, we might think, “Well this is just logical.” But notice the use of the word “blessed.” “The Lord has blessed us with so many people” (v. 14). In others words, “We’re blessed, so we deserve even more blessings.”

In entitlement thinking, “title equals entitlement.” Favor is demanded based on one’s status or position. It is believed that blessing should equal more blessing. In prosperity theology, for example, some will abuse Matthew 13:12, which says, “For whoever has, to him more will be given.” But this is a kingdom principle that has nothing to do with worldly gain. Entitlement can be based on things such as age, seniority, credentials, family name, and even time served.

Rowland Croucher of “John Mark Ministries” says, “Entitlement is demanding something for nothing and permitting laziness. Entitlement tells you that you deserve what others have because you’re just as important. Entitlement lies to you, distracting you with greed and feelings of jealousy . . . Entitlement can hide behind the guise of equality, yet they hold nothing in common.”(3)

In ministry, people will sometimes come into our sphere of influence feeling entitled to a certain position or rank based on how well they performed in a past ministry, or because they came out of a large and successful church. Perhaps they will demand privileges because they hold a position in local government, or because they’re the CEO of a large local organization. This favor is often sought for some kind of personal motive, such as feeling good about oneself, acquiring money (if it’s a paid position), or gaining political notoriety.

It seems the descendants of Joseph felt entitled to more land because they were a large tribe. Bigger is better; and therefore, bigger must equal blessing! But look at verse 15. I like Joshua’s response, as it was both sarcastic and frank. He basically said, “If there are indeed so many of you, then use the strength of your people to go out there and get what you want yourself.” When he stated, “Clear out land for yourselves,” Joshua was telling them, “You need to work for it!” So, when an individual approaches us claiming entitlement, we should tell them to work and serve, and pay their dues for what they’re wanting.