Ezekiel 18:28

Authorized King James Version

Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּרְאֶ֣ה

H7200

Because he considereth

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

וַיָּ֔שָׁוב

H7725

and turneth away

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

מִכָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

פְּשָׁעָ֖יו

H6588

from all his transgressions

a revolt (national, moral or religious)

אֲשֶׁ֣ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

עָשָׂ֑ה

H6213

that he hath committed

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

יִחְיֶ֖ה

H2421

he shall surely

to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive

יִחְיֶ֖ה

H2421

he shall surely

to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#10

יָמֽוּת׃

H4191

he shall not die

to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Ezekiel Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

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