How does Ezekiel 18:6 define righteous living in a sinful society? Setting the Scene Ezekiel ministered to exiles who were surrounded by rampant idolatry and moral compromise. In that bleak environment, God mapped out what righteous living looks like in one crisp verse. Ezekiel 18:6 “Does not eat on the mountains or raise his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel, does not defile his neighbor’s wife or approach a woman during her period;” Key Marks of Righteous Living • Single-hearted worship – “Does not eat on the mountains” refers to shunning pagan shrines where meals were part of idol rituals (cf. Deuteronomy 12:2-4; 1 Corinthians 10:14). – “Does not raise his eyes to the idols” underscores refusing every form of idolatry—whether carved, cultural, or internal. • Sexual faithfulness – “Does not defile his neighbor’s wife” condemns adultery outright (Exodus 20:14; Proverbs 6:32-35). – “Does not…approach a woman during her period” points to honoring God-given boundaries even within marriage (Leviticus 18:19). Righteousness respects God’s design for intimacy and self-control (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). Why These Marks Matter Today • They set God’s people apart when society normalizes spiritual compromise and sexual looseness. • They protect relationships—first with God, then with neighbors and spouses. • They display God’s holiness to a watching world (1 Peter 2:11-12). Putting It Into Practice • Examine what competes for your highest affection—career, entertainment, politics, possessions—and tear down any “shrine” that draws your heart away from the Lord. • Guard your mind and body: cultivate media habits and friendships that reinforce purity. • Honor marriage vows—your own and others’. Encourage accountability and open communication with your spouse or a trusted friend. • Treat every person with the dignity God assigns, refusing to objectify or exploit. Supporting Scriptures • Deuteronomy 6:13-15—exclusive worship. • Psalm 24:3-4—“clean hands and a pure heart.” • Matthew 5:27-28—purity of heart, not just action. • James 1:27—“unstained by the world.” |
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