What role does restitution play in the repentance process according to Ezekiel 33:15? Ezekiel 33:15 in Context “if he restores collateral, 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 33:15) • The verse sits in a chapter where God commissions Ezekiel as a watchman, calling Israel to turn from wickedness. • Repentance is pictured as more than a feeling—it includes decisive, observable change. Restitution as a Tangible Expression of Repentance • Restitution is singled out alongside moral obedience: “restores collateral” and “returns what he has stolen.” • God links life (“he will surely live”) to concrete acts that repair wrongs done to others. • True repentance therefore contains two inseparable elements: turning to God and setting things right with people. How Restitution Shows a Changed Heart 1. Ownership of Sin – By repaying, the offender publicly admits guilt (cf. Numbers 5:6-7: “They must confess the sin… and make full restitution”). 2. Love for Neighbor – Restitution reverses harm, demonstrating the second great command (Leviticus 19:18). 3. Submission to God’s Justice – Obeying the restitution command acknowledges God’s standards over personal convenience. 4. Evidence of Genuine Faith – As James 2:17 teaches, “faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” Restitution is faith in action. Related Scriptural Insights • Exodus 22:1-4—Detailed restitution laws show God’s concern for equity. • Leviticus 6:4-5—An extra fifth is added, underscoring sincerity. • Luke 19:8—Zacchaeus proves repentance by repaying fourfold; Jesus declares, “Today salvation has come to this house.” • Matthew 5:23-24—Jesus urges reconciliation before worship, echoing Ezekiel’s priority on righting wrongs. Practical Implications for Believers Today • Identify any past or present wrongs that can be rectified—unpaid debts, stolen property, broken promises. • Act quickly: delayed restitution can harden the heart and injure further. • Go beyond the minimum when possible; generosity highlights grace. • Trust God for the outcome—obedience may be costly, but it leads to the “life” God promises. |
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