Ezekiel 18:5 – “Suppose there is a righteous man who does what is just and right.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse introduces a hypothetical example of a righteous person who lives according to God’s standards. The focus is on personal responsibility and the way an individual’s actions reflect their moral and spiritual character. The phrase “does what is just and right” implies that righteousness is not just a belief but a lifestyle rooted in obedience to God’s commands. This verse lays the foundation for the broader teaching that each person is judged by their own actions, not by the behavior of their ancestors or descendants.

Historical Context

The Israelites were in exile in Babylon, grappling with questions about sin, punishment, and justice. Many believed they were suffering because of the sins of their forefathers, as expressed in the proverb about sour grapes in earlier verses. Through Ezekiel, God addresses this misunderstanding and shifts the focus to individual accountability. In this verse, God begins describing the life of a righteous person to illustrate how He judges each individual fairly, based on their own choices and actions.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights several key truths about God’s expectations and justice:

1. Righteousness as Action: True righteousness is demonstrated through actions that align with God’s will. It is not inherited but chosen.
2. God’s Justice: God judges individuals based on their deeds, ensuring that His justice is both personal and fair.
3. Hope for Repentance: By describing the life of a righteous person, God shows that it is possible to live in a way that pleases Him, giving hope to those who desire to turn from sin.

Literary Analysis

The phrase “Suppose there is a righteous man” signals the beginning of a detailed case study in Ezekiel’s message. The hypothetical scenario allows God to clearly define what He considers righteousness, emphasizing justice and integrity. The structure is didactic, meaning it is designed to teach and clarify. By focusing on specific actions, the verse makes righteousness concrete and attainable, rather than abstract or mystical.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
• Psalm 15:1-2: “Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous.”
• James 2:17: “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
• Matthew 7:24: “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse reminds us that faith must be lived out in tangible ways. It challenges us to examine our actions and ask whether they reflect God’s standards of justice and righteousness. While salvation comes through faith in Jesus, the evidence of that faith is seen in how we live. This verse calls us to pursue a life that honors God through obedience, integrity, and love for others.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is evident in His desire for His people to live righteous lives. By clearly defining what righteousness looks like, He provides guidance and a path to live in a way that pleases Him. This verse also shows God’s fairness, as He judges each person individually and offers everyone the opportunity to choose righteousness. His love is further demonstrated in His patience and willingness to teach us what is good.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the ultimate example of righteousness. He perfectly embodied what it means to live a just and right life, fulfilling God’s law completely (Matthew 5:17). Through His sacrifice, Jesus makes it possible for us to be declared righteous before God, not by our own efforts but by faith in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21). This verse’s emphasis on personal responsibility aligns with Jesus’ teachings about living out our faith through obedience and love (John 14:15).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does “doing what is just and right” look like in your daily life?
2. How can you demonstrate righteousness in your relationships with others?
3. In what ways does this verse challenge you to take personal responsibility for your actions?
4. How does Jesus’ life inspire you to pursue a life of righteousness?
5. What steps can you take today to align your actions more closely with God’s will?

Ezekiel 18:5 reminds us that righteousness is not about perfection but about a heart and life committed to God. It calls us to live justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our Creator, empowered by the example and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.