Ezekiel 18 and 19 states that no longer will future generations pay for the sins of the present generation. Until this time the children and children’s children also paid for the sins of the present generation. Now everyone will be responsible for their own sins and each generation will be responsible for themselves. If a righteous person does unrighteous acts, that person will be responsible for those sins. Past righteousness will not exonerate a current sinner. But if a sinner turns from wickedness forgiveness is offered. This means that they no longer commit unrighteous acts, not that they can correct a bad act with a good act. Their lives have been changed.

Israel needs to turn away from all its unrighteousness. Then it will be forgiven.

1 Peter 1 is written to the Jewish Christians that are spread throughout the known world. Peter reminds them to live according to the salvation that has been given them through Jesus Christ. Because he is holy they have been made holy. Now they are to live holy lives. They may suffer for a time on this earth but they will receive the heavenly glory of eternal life with Christ. He gives them joy in their suffering. They are now able to obey the word of God and live lives of love for Christ and for others.