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Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 18 - Verse 4

18:4
Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.

Meaning

The verse "Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die," from Ezekiel 18:4 is a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty over all human souls. It emphasizes that every individual is accountable to God, and that each person is responsible for their own actions. The verse highlights the principle of personal responsibility before God, as each soul belongs to Him and will ultimately answer to Him for their choices and behaviors. The phrase "the soul that sinneth, it shall die" conveys the consequences of sin, emphasizing the seriousness of disobedience to God's commands. This verse serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the importance of living a righteous life in accordance with God's will. It teaches us that God holds us accountable for our actions and that we must strive to live in a way that is pleasing to Him.

Theological Overview

In the theological interpretation of Ezekiel 18:4, the phrase "all souls are mine" emphasizes the sovereignty and ownership of God over every individual. This verse highlights the interconnectedness of generations, stating that the soul of the father and the soul of the son both belong to God. The concept of individual accountability is underscored with the declaration that the soul that sins will bear the consequence of death. The word "soul" in this context refers to the entirety of a person's being, including their thoughts, emotions, and will. The theological depth of this verse reminds believers of the seriousness of sin and the need for personal repentance and turning towards God for forgiveness. Through word studies, the significance of each soul belonging to God is illuminated, reinforcing the idea that no one can escape the ultimate judgment of a holy and just Creator.

American Standard Version

Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.
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