1. Both alike belong to me (1-4)

There was a proverb in Israel suggesting that children suffered the consequences of their parents' action. But God is not constrained by human proverbs. He judges each one according to their own actions. He judges sin. We do not belong to ourselves. Everyone belongs to the Lord, and he judges each one justly.

2. A man and his sons (5-18)

The Lord judges each one according to their deeds. The righteous man who practices faithfulness and love for God will surely live. If his son is a violent man he will not live because his father was righteous, he will die for his own sins. But if the violent man's son repents and lives a righteous life, he will live. God is the judge, and he is just. Every person belongs to him who judges justly. He is the source of life and righteousness in this sinful world.