Bible Study Notes in Ezekiel- Chapter 18

Ezekiel 18

 

-The chapter starts out with a proverb known in Israel, “The fathers eat the sour grapes, but the children’s teeth are set on edge (Ezekiel 18:2).” The people of Judah believed that they were being punished for the sins of their predecessors, not their own problems. God had to correct this false thinking of fatalism and irresponsibility with an explanation in the truth of His justice. These are the traits that are listed to distinguish the righteous and the unrighteous in the passage:

*Practicing justice and righteousness or not

*Eating at the pagan mountain shrines or not

*Lifting up eyes to the idols of the house of Israel or not

*Adultery or not (chastity in the bond of marriage)

*Sexual intercourse during the wife’s menstrual period or not

*Oppressing people or not

*Paying back debts or not

*Robbery or not

*Generosity or not

*Lending money at interest or not

*Staying away from iniquity (wickedness, depravity) or not

*Executing true justice between man and man or not

*Walking in the statutes and ordinances of God as to deal faithfully or not

*Violent or not

 

-The determining factor is going to be the person, not their lineage, says the LORD. “The person who sins will die. The son will not bear the punishment for the father’s iniquity, nor will the father bear the punishment for the son’s iniquity; the righteousness of the righteous will be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked will be upon himself (Ezekiel 18:20).” We see continually in the passage that it is God’s supreme desire for people to turn away from destructive ways and turn to Him for life. He has no pleasure in the death of the wicked, rather His heart is that man turn from his futile way and live in the power and grace of the Almighty (Ezekiel 18:23, 27, 30-32). There is also a steadfastness aspect that is commanded by the LORD is this passage. He knows the sincere and enduring heart of a person, and demands that a person stay true to his/her devotion. This is only accomplished by His Spirit’s indwelling presence, which will be a reward in the New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31, Ezekiel 18:24, 26, Luke 22:20, 2 Corinthians 3:6, Hebrews 9:15). Therefore, the LORD will judge the house of Israel “each according to his conduct (Ezekiel 18:30).”

 

-*Application* We cannot rely on Godly parents, churches, Christian schools, or a moral community for our salvation. Salvation and life change come only through accepting Christ’s righteousness and walking in that Light. We are accountable for our own actions, just like in the days of Ezekiel. You are not responsible ultimately for your parents, grandparents, children, or grandchildren. Take possession of your faith. It’s your duty alone.

 

Verses to Memorize: Ezekiel 18:20, 23, 32