Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 18 - Verse 19

The verse "Yet say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live." addresses a common belief at the time that the sins of the father would be passed down to the son, resulting in punishment for the son. However, the verse clarifies that each individual is responsible for their own actions and will be judged based on their own righteousness. This highlights the importance of personal accountability and emphasizes that one cannot inherit or be held accountable for the sins of their ancestors. The verse serves as a reminder that each person has the ability to lead a righteous life and be rewarded with life, regardless of the actions of their parents or ancestors.

In this verse, the concept of individual responsibility for one's actions is highlighted. The idea that the son should not bear the iniquity of the father is emphasized, especially if the son has conducted himself according to God's laws. This speaks to the principle of personal accountability before God, where each individual is judged based on their own actions and adherence to His statutes. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the importance of personal righteousness and obedience to God's commands. It also serves as a reminder that God's judgment is just and fair, taking into account the actions and intentions of each individual. This verse can be seen as a call to strive for righteousness and to live according to God's will, knowing that each person is responsible for their own choices and will be judged accordingly. Through word studies, one can delve deeper into the meanings of terms such as 'iniquity' and 'statutes' to gain a clearer understanding of the message being conveyed in this verse.