How does this verse connect with the concept of individual accountability in Romans 14:12? The Verse in Focus “The soul who sins is the one who will die. A son will not share the iniquity of his father, and a father will not share the iniquity of his son. The righteousness of the righteous man will fall upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked man will fall upon him.” (Ezekiel 18:20) What the Verse Teaches • Sin’s penalty or reward is personal, not inherited or transferred • No family, social, or religious pedigree shields anyone from responsibility • Righteousness and wickedness are credited individually, reinforcing moral agency Connecting with Romans 14:12 “So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.” • Ezekiel 18:20 establishes the timeless principle of personal responsibility; Romans 14:12 affirms it for New-Covenant believers • Ezekiel addresses temporal consequences within Israel; Romans moves the focus to the final judgment seat of God • Together they underscore that accountability spans Testaments—Old Covenant law and New Covenant grace both culminate in personal accounting before the Lord Implications for Believers Today • Heritage, church membership, or family reputation cannot substitute for personal faith and obedience • Examine motives and actions, knowing they will be individually reviewed (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:5) • Encourage others without judging their ultimate standing—God alone renders final evaluation (cf. Romans 14:4) Further Scriptural Witness • 2 Corinthians 5:10—“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ…” • Galatians 6:5—“For each one will bear his own load.” • Matthew 12:36—“I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.” • Hebrews 4:13—“Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight…” Living This Truth • Cultivate daily repentance and faith, recognizing no one else can do it for you • Steward time, gifts, and resources with eternity in view • Walk in humility, knowing the same standard applies to all—no excuses, no comparisons |
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