Ezekiel 18:5-9

Developement of the principle in three instances, chosen so as to exhibit it in its most paradoxical form

5 9. The man that is righteous shall live. First, his righteousness is defined generally as doing judgment or right and justice, Ezekiel 18:5. Then it is analysed into: (1) religious duties, Ezekiel 18:6; (2) duties relating to marriage and the relations of men and women, Ezekiel 18:6; (3) duties to one's neighbour, Ezekiel 18:7; and (4) finally all these duties are brought under the conception of obedience to the commands of God, Ezekiel 18:9.