Ezekiel 18:26
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 18:26
26 When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 18 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, holiness, covenant. Written during the Babylonian exile (c. 593-570 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ministered to exiles in Babylon with visions of God's glory and future restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ezekiel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ezekiel 18:26
26 When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.
Analysis
'When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.' This introduces the possibility of apostasy—a righteous person turning away. The Hebrew shuv ('turn') indicates deliberate change of direction. 'And dieth in them'—dying in that state of rebellion brings judgment. This warns against presumption: past righteousness doesn't guarantee future salvation if one turns from faith.
Historical Context
Biblical examples include Saul, Solomon (partially), and Judas. The possibility of falling away is addressed throughout Scripture (Hebrews 6:4-6, 10:26-31, 2 Peter 2:20-22). Reformed theology debates whether true believers can lose salvation, but all agree apostasy is possible for those who profess faith without true regeneration.
Reflection
- How do we hold together assurance of salvation with warnings against apostasy?
- What does perseverance in faith reveal about the genuineness of conversion?
Word Studies
- Righteous: צַדִּיק (Tzaddik) H6662 - Righteous one