This verse sets forth the central burden of Ezekiel’s teaching. The promises of restoration were conditional upon the spiritual and moral renovation of the people. Ever since Sinai, God had sought to introduce the new-covenant principles, but the people refused to accept them (see on ch. 16:60). They did not understand that without divine grace and a change of heart they could not render the necessary obedience. It was the constant burden of the prophets to lead the people to this higher experience. In the text under consideration, Ezekiel is earnestly pleading with the captives, showing them the only basis for future success. Would they, at length, relinquish their self-righteousness and accept the glorious provisions of the new covenant? Would they cease their vain efforts to establish their own righteousness and accept the righteousness of God? The offer was theirs. History records that they turned it down and became even more bigoted (see pp. 32, 33).

 There is great danger that in our present age of enlightenment men will choose to live under the conditions of the old covenant. They realize that obedience is a necessary condition to salvation, but their endeavors spring from unsanctified hearts. They attempt the impossible. They become discouraged. They cry out, “O wretched man that I am!” (Rom. 7:24). If in the moment of despair they find Jesus, then that which “the law could not do,” He enables them to do (Rom. 8:3). With the indwelling Christ the “requirements [alternative translation] of the law” are fulfilled in them (Rom. 8:4).