SUMMARY: Personal accountability
OVERVIEW: Ezekiel reminds Israel that although they may suffer from the actions of others, they will only be held accountable for their actions.
BIG IDEA: We are accountable only for our sins.
KEY VERSE: Ezekiel 18:20 (God’s judgment)
The person who sins is the one who will die. The child will not be punished for the parent’s sins, and the parent will not be punished for the child’s sins. Righteous people will be rewarded for their own righteous behavior, and wicked people will be punished for their own wickedness.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
You may reap the consequences of another’s sin, but you won’t be held accountable for it. You are only responsible for your actions, and the same is true for every other person. But remember, the wages of sin is death. There is no way out on your merit. You will find yourself lacking because you are not perfect, and my standard is perfection. But don’t lose heart or give up. Instead, receive my Son—my gift of grace. Let Jesus stand on your behalf so that I can grant you forgiveness.
Your actions do matter. Never think you can do whatever you want because you’re not hurting anyone. There are always repercussions to what you do. I won’t judge others for your actions, but your actions will impact them. You are not an island. You are part of a biological family and church family, and you are a community and team member. What you say, think, and do makes a difference. Seek me and follow me so that you will live and I can bless you and others.
NEXT STEP
Deal with your sin and confess it to God. And don’t carry the burdens of others. Pray for them, instead.
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