Tuesday, September 8
Read Ezekiel 18
Think About It:
The Jews in Ezekiel’s day were sure that God would deliver them and spare Jerusalem because Israel was God’s chosen people, but they forgot that privilege always brings responsibility. They had the greatest law ever given to a nation, but they disobeyed it. The Lord gave them a wonderful land for their home, and they defiled it with idolatry. They violated the terms of the divine covenant and then were shocked when the Lord obeyed the covenant and chastened them.
As you read this chapter, you find Ezekiel answering the erroneous statements the Jewish exiles were making about God in their difficult situation. God knew what His people were saying and so did His prophet. Ignoring the inspired Word of God, the people were building their case on the popular proverb: “the fathers had eaten sour grapes, and the children’s teeth are set on edge.” In other words, “our fathers have sinned and we, their children, are being punished for it.” Their philosophy was kind of irresponsible fatalism. “No matter what we do, we still have to suffer because of what the older generation did.”
What they failed to understand, was the warning in Exodus 20:5 and 34:6-7. The Lord punishes the children if they commit the sins their fathers committed. Furthermore, God also promised to bless those children who followed Godly examples and obeyed the Lord (Exodus 20:6).
The conclusion of this message was an invitation from the Lord for the people to repent (change their minds), turn from their sins, cast away their transgressions like filthy garments, and seek a new heart and a new spirit. God promised them a new heart if only they would seek Him by faith.
Family Time:
- What is the penalty of sin?
- Whose sins are you responsible for?
- What does “repent” mean?
- What happens to sins that are repented of? Have you repented of your sins?
