Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 18 - Verse 20

18:20
The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.

Meaning

This verse from Ezekiel 18:20 emphasizes personal responsibility for one's actions and the consequences that follow. It teaches that each individual is accountable for their own sins and cannot be held responsible for the sins of their parents, children, or any other family member. This principle underscores the importance of free will and the power of choice in determining one's own destiny. The verse also highlights the concept of individual righteousness and wickedness, stating that the righteous will be rewarded for their good deeds, while the wicked will bear the consequences of their evil actions. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder that each person must take ownership of their behavior and strive to live a life of moral integrity in order to receive the blessings of righteousness.

Theological Overview

One important theological interpretation of this verse is the concept of individual responsibility for sin. The verse emphasizes that each person is accountable for their own actions, and that guilt is not transferable from one individual to another. This principle highlights the idea of personal agency and the importance of individual choices in shaping one's destiny. The verse also underscores the notion of divine justice, as it states that both the righteousness and wickedness of a person will ultimately be attributed to them. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of one's actions and the role of accountability in the divine plan. This verse encourages self-reflection and accountability, reminding individuals of the importance of living in accordance with righteousness.

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