Ezekiel 2:4

They are obstinate and stubborn children. I am sending you to them, and you are to say to them, 'This is what the Lord GOD says.'

Study Bible

They are obstinate and stubborn children.
This phrase characterizes the Israelites during Ezekiel's time, reflecting their persistent rebellion against God. The terms "obstinate" and "stubborn" suggest a deep-seated resistance to divine authority, reminiscent of the Israelites' behavior during their wilderness journey (Exodus 32:9). This rebellion is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, highlighting the people's tendency to turn away from God's commandments despite His continuous guidance and provision. The imagery of "children" underscores their immaturity and need for correction, akin to a parent-child relationship where the parent seeks to guide the child back to the right path.

I am sending you to them,
God's commissioning of Ezekiel emphasizes the prophet's role as a divine messenger. This sending mirrors the calling of other prophets, such as Isaiah (Isaiah 6:8) and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:7), who were also sent to a rebellious people. The act of sending signifies God's continued pursuit of His people, despite their disobedience. It underscores the importance of prophetic ministry in conveying God's will and calling His people to repentance. This mission is not just a task but a divine mandate, reflecting God's sovereignty and His desire for His people to return to Him.

and you are to say to them,
Ezekiel's role is to deliver God's message faithfully, regardless of the people's response. This directive highlights the prophet's duty to speak God's words, not his own, ensuring that the message remains untainted by personal bias. The emphasis on speaking directly to the people underscores the importance of clear and direct communication in prophetic ministry. This mirrors the role of Jesus Christ, who spoke with authority and clarity, delivering God's message to humanity (John 12:49-50).

‘This is what the Lord GOD says.’
The phrase establishes the divine authority behind Ezekiel's message. It is a common prophetic formula that authenticates the message as coming directly from God, not from human origin. This declaration is crucial for distinguishing true prophecy from false, as seen in Deuteronomy 18:20-22. The use of "Lord GOD" (YHWH Elohim) emphasizes God's covenantal relationship with Israel and His supreme authority. This phrase also foreshadows the ultimate revelation of God's word through Jesus Christ, who is the Word made flesh (John 1:14), embodying the fullness of divine truth and authority.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. His role is to be a watchman and a voice for God.

2. The Israelites
Referred to as "obstinate and stubborn children," they are the people of God who have turned away from His commandments and are living in rebellion.

3. Babylonian Exile
The historical context in which Ezekiel is prophesying. The Israelites are in captivity due to their disobedience to God.

4. The Lord GOD
The sovereign God who commissions Ezekiel to speak His words to the rebellious Israelites.

5. Prophetic Commission
The event where God calls and sends Ezekiel to deliver His message to the people, despite their resistance.

Teaching Points

The Nature of Rebellion
Rebellion against God is characterized by obstinacy and stubbornness. It is a refusal to listen and submit to God's authority.

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets are called to speak God's truth, regardless of the audience's receptiveness. Their duty is to be faithful to God's message.

God's Sovereignty and Patience
Despite the people's rebellion, God continues to reach out to them through His prophets, demonstrating His patience and desire for repentance.

Courage in Proclaiming Truth
Like Ezekiel, believers today are called to stand firm and proclaim God's truth, even in the face of opposition or indifference.

The Importance of Listening to God
The Israelites' failure to listen serves as a warning to us to remain open and responsive to God's word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's mission to the Israelites reflect God's character and His approach to dealing with rebellion?

2. In what ways can we identify "obstinate and stubborn" tendencies in our own lives, and how can we address them?

3. How does the role of a prophet in the Old Testament compare to the role of believers in sharing God's message today?

4. What can we learn from Ezekiel's example about the importance of obedience to God's calling, even when it seems difficult or fruitless?

5. How do the themes of rebellion and repentance in Ezekiel 2:4 connect with the message of the Gospel in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1:7-8
Similar to Ezekiel, Jeremiah is called by God to speak to a rebellious nation, emphasizing God's authority and the prophet's duty to deliver His message.

Isaiah 6:9-10
Isaiah is also sent to a people who are resistant to God's message, highlighting the common theme of prophetic missions to rebellious audiences.

Matthew 23:37
Jesus laments over Jerusalem's resistance to God's messengers, showing the continuity of this theme throughout the Bible.

Acts 7:51
Stephen accuses the Jewish leaders of being stiff-necked, echoing the description of the Israelites in Ezekiel's time.