This passage reflects a proverbial expression that was commonly used in ancient times to convey a sense of intergenerational consequences or inherited guilt. The phrase “the parents have eaten sour grapes, and the children’s teeth are set on edge” suggests that the children are suffering the consequences of their parents’ actions or sins.

In the context of Jeremiah’s prophecy, this expression is being used to emphasize a shift in God’s approach to justice and accountability. In the preceding verses, Jeremiah speaks of a new covenant that God will make with His people—a covenant that will be different from the old covenant established with their ancestors. In this new covenant, each individual will be held accountable for their own actions, rather than bearing the burden of their ancestors’ sins.

By stating, “everyone will die for their own sin,” Jeremiah is highlighting the principle of personal responsibility before God. Regardless of what their ancestors may have done, each person will be judged according to their own deeds. This emphasizes the importance of individual repentance, faithfulness, and obedience to God’s commands.

The imagery of “sour grapes” and “teeth set on edge” vividly portrays the unpleasant consequences of sin, both for the one who commits the sin and for their descendants. However, Jeremiah’s prophecy offers hope by proclaiming a new covenant in which God’s grace and forgiveness will be extended to all who turn to Him in repentance and faith.

Overall, this scripture underscores the importance of recognizing personal accountability before God and the need for each individual to seek forgiveness and reconciliation with Him. It also highlights God’s justice and mercy in establishing a new covenant that offers redemption and restoration to all who seek Him.

”As I live, saith the Lord GOD, ye shall not have occasion any more to use this proverb in Israel.“

‭‭Ezekiel‬ ‭18‬:‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Thank God for the New Covenant. Jesus has redeemed us all. Because of Jesus, we only need to confess our sin(s), repent, turn away from such sin(s), and turn to God and righteous living. Believe that we’ve been forgiven and refuse to live in any condemnation.