What is the meaning of Ezekiel 18:21? But if the wicked man The verse begins by acknowledging the reality of genuine wickedness. God does not ignore sin; He names it plainly (Romans 3:23; Isaiah 53:6). Yet His opening word—“But”—signals hope. However dark a person’s past, the story can change because God is both just and merciful (Psalm 86:5). turns from all the sins he has committed Here the focus is wholehearted repentance, not a token gesture. • Repentance means a decisive change of direction—forsaking every known sin (Isaiah 55:7; Acts 3:19). • “All” shows that selective obedience won’t do; God calls for a clean break (Proverbs 28:13). True turning is more than remorse; it’s a reorientation of life toward God. keeps all My statutes Repentance blossoms into obedience. God’s statutes are not optional add-ons; they reveal His character and will (Deuteronomy 30:16). Jesus echoed this truth: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15; 1 John 2:3-4). The verse does not teach perfection by human effort but a new pattern of life that follows God’s ways. and does what is just and right Obedience shows itself in concrete acts of justice and righteousness. • The prophet Micah summarized it: “to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). • Faith that saves is faith that works (James 2:17; Titus 3:8). God’s concern is never bare rule-keeping; He desires a transformed life that reflects His own integrity. he will surely live The promise is emphatic—“surely.” God guarantees life to the repentant. In Ezekiel’s context this included preservation in the land; in the fuller light of the New Testament it points to eternal life (John 10:10; Romans 6:23). The assurance rests on God’s faithfulness, not human merit. he will not die Death here signifies more than physical demise; it is separation from God. Those who turn to Him are delivered from that fate (John 11:25-26; 1 John 5:12; Revelation 20:6). Judgment is real, but in Christ it is fully satisfied, so the repentant “will not be condemned” (John 5:24). summary Ezekiel 18:21 sets out God’s gospel pattern: no sinner is beyond hope; genuine repentance that turns from sin and embraces God’s ways leads to full forgiveness and real life. The verse underscores personal responsibility, highlights the necessity of obedient faith, and showcases the steadfast mercy of a God who delights to save. |
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