Ezekiel 3:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 3:20
20 Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand.
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 3 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, worship, wisdom. 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 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 3:20
20 Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand.
Analysis
God warns that even a righteous man can fall: "when a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity...he shall die in his sin." This sobering warning addresses the danger of apostasy. The Hebrew shub (שׁוּב, "turn") indicates deliberate departure, not momentary lapse. The phrase "his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered" doesn't negate past grace but emphasizes that final apostasy proves saving faith was absent. The Reformed doctrine of perseverance of the saints maintains that true believers ultimately persevere, while those who utterly apostatize demonstrate they never possessed genuine faith (1 John 2:19).
Historical Context
This warning addressed exiles in Babylon (593 BC) who might have appeared righteous but lacked genuine heart transformation. Israel's history included many who began well but finished poorly—Saul, Solomon, and numerous kings who "did right...but the high places were not removed." The external righteousness of covenant membership didn't guarantee internal regeneration. Ezekiel's message anticipated Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Ezekiel 36:26-27, where God promises to write His law on hearts and give a new spirit. The warning guards against presumption while emphasizing that genuine conversion produces persevering faith.
Reflection
- How does this verse challenge presumptuous assurance based on past religious performance rather than present faith?
- What is the relationship between genuine saving faith and final perseverance in holiness?
Word Studies
- Blood: דָּם (Dam) H1818 - Blood
Cross-References
- Righteousness: Ezekiel 18:24, 18:26, 33:18, Isaiah 64:6, Hebrews 10:38
- Sin: Ezekiel 3:18, Psalms 125:5
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 6:21, 1 Peter 2:8, 1 John 2:19