What actions demonstrate genuine repentance according to Ezekiel 33:14? Setting the Scene Ezekiel is addressing exiles who wonder whether God will still hold them guilty. The Lord answers by describing what He looks for when a sinner turns back to Him. Text in Focus “ ‘But if I say to the wicked, “You will surely die,” and he turns from his sin and does what is just and right—if he restores a pledge, makes restitution for what he has stolen, and walks in the statutes of life without committing iniquity—he will surely live; he will not die.’ ” (Ezekiel 33:14-15) Actions that Mark Genuine Repentance • Turning from sin—an about-face, abandoning the old path. • Doing what is “just and right”—embracing God’s standards instead of self-interest. • Restoring the pledge—returning any collateral taken improperly or held beyond its due time (see Deuteronomy 24:10-13). • Making restitution—repaying what was stolen, with the implied goal of making victims whole (Exodus 22:1; Leviticus 6:2-5). • Walking in the statutes of life—ongoing obedience, not a one-time gesture. • Avoiding iniquity—choosing consistent holiness rather than occasional reforms. Echoes in the Rest of Scripture • John the Baptist’s call: “Produce fruit worthy of repentance” (Luke 3:8-14). • Zacchaeus: “Look, Lord, half of my possessions I give… and if I have cheated anyone, I will repay fourfold” (Luke 19:8-9). • Paul: repentance “proved by deeds” (Acts 26:20). • James: “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:17). Living It Today • Examine attitudes and actions; genuine repentance always shows itself in practical righteousness. • Make things right with people you have wronged—return, repay, restore. • Choose daily obedience, proving that the turn you made is real and lasting. |
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