Wenn dagegen der Gerechte sich von seiner Gerechtigkeit abwendet und Unrecht tut und nach allen Greueln des Gottlosen handelt, sollte er leben? Nein, sondern es soll aller seiner Gerechtigkeit, die er getan hat, nicht gedacht werden; in seiner Übertretung, mit der er sich vergangen, und in seiner Sünde, mit der er sich versündigt hat, soll er sterben!
Was bedeutet das?
This verse from Ezekiel says that if a person who used to do good things stops being good and starts doing very bad things, like a wicked person, their past good deeds won't save them. They will be punished for their bad actions.
Für Kinder erklärt
Imagine you have a piggy bank full of coins for all the good things you've done. But if you start doing really bad things, like lying and stealing, those coins won't help you anymore. You'll have to face the consequences of your bad actions.
Historischer Hintergrund
Ezekiel, a prophet, wrote this during the Babylonian exile in the 6th century BCE. The Israelites were questioning God's justice, believing that the sins of the fathers would be punished in their children. Ezekiel clarifies that each person is responsible for their own actions.
Anwendung für heute
Consider a situation where a respected community leader suddenly starts engaging in illegal activities. This verse reminds us that no matter how good someone’s past actions were, it won't protect them if they start doing wrong things.
The verse emphasizes that past good deeds are not enough to protect someone from the consequences of current bad actions. It highlights the importance of maintaining righteousness.
Who wrote this verse?
The verse was written by Ezekiel, a prophet who lived in the 6th century BCE and was among the Israelites exiled to Babylon.
Is there any hope for someone who turns away from righteousness?
While Ezekiel 18:24 focuses on the consequences of turning away from righteousness, other parts of the Bible emphasize God's mercy and the possibility of repentance and forgiveness.
What is the cultural context of this verse?
Ezekiel wrote this during a time when the Israelites were questioning God's justice and fairness, especially in light of their exile. This verse clarifies individual responsibility for actions.