Connect Ezekiel 14:23 with other scriptures on God's righteous judgment. Anchoring Thought: Ezekiel 14:23 “Then you will console yourselves when you see their conduct and their actions, and you will know that I have not done without cause everything that I have done in Jerusalem, declares the Lord GOD.” The Character Behind Every Judgment • Genesis 18:25 – “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” • Deuteronomy 32:4 – “He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice.” • Psalm 19:9 – “The judgments of the LORD are true, being altogether righteous.” These passages affirm that every act of judgment flows from God’s flawless nature. What He does, He does “not without cause.” Judgment With a Redemptive Aim • Ezekiel’s survivors were meant to “console” the exiles; their changed lives would prove God’s discipline had purpose. • Hebrews 12:10–11 speaks of discipline that “produces a harvest of righteousness.” • Jeremiah 29:11 shows God’s intent for “a future and a hope” even while announcing exile. God’s judgments purge iniquity and produce repentance, never acting capriciously. Justice That Can Be Seen • Isaiah 26:9 – “When Your judgments come upon the earth, the inhabitants of the world learn righteousness.” • Revelation 15:3–4 portrays saints in heaven declaring, “Righteous and true are Your ways, King of the nations.” What God allows on earth becomes visible evidence of His integrity; observers “know” His ways are right. The Consolation Factor • Survivors’ “conduct and actions” (Ezekiel 14:23) would comfort fellow Jews. • 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 shows how God’s comfort received is passed on to others. When justice brings repentance, restored people become tangible proof that God’s judgments were wise and merciful. Judgment Now, Judgment Later • Romans 2:5–6 reminds us of a future day “when God will repay each one according to his deeds.” • Revelation 20:11–12 describes that final tribunal. Ezekiel’s audience experienced temporal judgment; these New Testament texts point to its ultimate counterpart, ensuring no wrongdoing escapes divine review. Living in Light of Righteous Judgment • Micah 6:8 calls us “to act justly.” • 1 Peter 1:17 urges holy living, “since you call on a Father who judges each one’s work impartially.” Awareness that God “has not done without cause” motivates daily obedience and trust. Summary Snapshot Ezekiel 14:23 showcases a God who judges with perfect cause, turns judgment into redemption, and provides living proof through transformed people. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture consistently echoes: His justice is flawless, purposeful, and ultimately reassuring to every heart that seeks Him. |