Ezekiel 18:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 18:27
27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive.
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 18 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, wisdom, salvation. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 18:27
27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive.
Analysis
'Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive.' The flip side: a wicked person can repent and find life. 'Turneth away' (Hebrew shuv) is the word for repentance—changing direction. Doing 'that which is lawful and right' demonstrates genuine repentance. 'He shall save his soul alive'—repentance brings salvation. This offers hope to the worst sinners.
Historical Context
Examples include Manasseh (2 Chronicles 33:12-13), Nineveh (Jonah 3), and the thief on the cross (Luke 23:42-43). No one is beyond God's reach. The gospel offers salvation to anyone who repents and believes, regardless of past wickedness. This prepares for the New Covenant promise of heart transformation (Ezekiel 36:26-27).
Reflection
- How does the possibility of late-in-life repentance encourage evangelism to hardened sinners?
- What does 'saving his soul alive' involve both now and eternally?
Word Studies
- Judgment: מִשְׁפָּט (Mishpat) H4941 - Judgment, justice
Cross-References
- Word: Ezekiel 18:21
- Evil: Isaiah 55:7
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 1:18, Matthew 9:13, Acts 3:19