What actions in Ezekiel 18:6 demonstrate obedience to God's commandments? Setting the Scene Ezekiel 18:6 presents a concise profile of a righteous person. Each action listed lines up with earlier commands God gave through Moses, proving that genuine obedience always finds practical expression. Exact Wording “He does not eat at the mountain shrines or lift up his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel. He does not defile his neighbor’s wife or approach a woman during her period.” The Actions That Demonstrate Obedience • Rejects pagan worship – “does not eat at the mountain shrines” – High places were centers of idolatry (1 Kings 14:23); refusing their meals means shunning fellowship with false gods. – Echoes the first and second commandments (Exodus 20:3–5). • Renounces idolatry altogether – “does not lift up his eyes to the idols” – Turning one’s gaze upward was a gesture of prayer or devotion; the righteous man reserves that posture for the LORD alone (Psalm 121:1–2). • Guards marital faithfulness – “does not defile his neighbor’s wife” – A clear refusal to commit adultery (Exodus 20:14; Leviticus 20:10). • Observes sexual purity laws – “does not…approach a woman during her period” – Keeps Leviticus 18:19; 20:18, showing respect for God’s ceremonial boundaries as well as for the woman’s wellbeing. Why These Actions Matter • They uphold exclusive covenant loyalty to God. • They protect the sanctity of marriage and community trust. • They honor God’s design for holiness in both worship and sexuality (Hebrews 13:4; 1 Peter 1:15–16). Living It Today • Reject modern “high places”—any venue that invites compromise with idols of materialism, pleasure, or status. • Keep eyes fixed on Christ, not on counterfeit saviors (Colossians 3:1–2). • Treasure marriage vows, cultivating purity of heart and body (Matthew 5:27–28). • Respect God-given boundaries in all relationships, trusting that His commands are protective, not restrictive (1 John 5:3). |
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