Ezekiel 2:7

But speak My words to them, whether they listen or refuse to listen, for they are rebellious.

Study Bible

But speak My words to them
Ezekiel is commanded to deliver God's message to the Israelites. This directive emphasizes the role of a prophet as a mouthpiece for God, highlighting the divine authority behind the message. The phrase underscores the importance of obedience to God's command, regardless of the audience's reception. This mirrors the call of other prophets, such as Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:7), who were also instructed to speak God's words faithfully.

whether they listen or refuse to listen
This phrase acknowledges the potential rejection of the message by the audience. It reflects the persistent rebellion of Israel, a theme prevalent throughout the Old Testament. The prophet's duty is to deliver the message, not to ensure its acceptance, similar to the parable of the sower in the New Testament (Matthew 13:3-9), where the sower spreads the seed regardless of the type of soil. This highlights the sovereignty of God in the process of revelation and response.

for they are rebellious
The Israelites are described as rebellious, a recurring characterization in the prophetic books. This rebellion is not just against the prophet but against God Himself. Historically, this rebellion can be traced back to the wilderness wanderings (Numbers 14:9) and continued through the monarchy and into the exile. The term "rebellious" also connects to the broader biblical narrative of humanity's rebellion against God, which is ultimately addressed through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who perfectly obeyed where humanity failed.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. Ezekiel's ministry is marked by visions and symbolic acts.

2. God
The sovereign Lord who commissions Ezekiel to speak His words to the rebellious Israelites, emphasizing His authority and the importance of obedience to His commands.

3. Israelites
The people of Israel, who are in a state of rebellion against God. They are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry, yet God continues to reach out to them through His prophet.

4. Babylonian Exile
The historical context in which Ezekiel prophesies. The Israelites are captives in Babylon as a consequence of their persistent rebellion against God.

5. Rebellion
The state of the Israelites' hearts, characterized by their refusal to listen to God's words and their continued disobedience.

Teaching Points

Faithful Proclamation
God calls us to speak His truth regardless of the audience's response. Our responsibility is to be faithful in delivering His message.

Understanding Rebellion
Recognize the nature of rebellion as a heart issue. It is crucial to address the root of disobedience in our own lives and communities.

God's Patience and Persistence
Despite Israel's rebellion, God continues to reach out. This demonstrates His patience and desire for repentance, encouraging us to persist in prayer and witness.

Courage in Obedience
Like Ezekiel, we are called to be courageous in our obedience to God, trusting Him to handle the results of our faithful witness.

The Role of the Prophet
Understand the role of a prophet as a mouthpiece for God, emphasizing the importance of speaking truth in love and with authority.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's commission to speak God's words, regardless of the people's response, challenge your approach to sharing your faith?

2. In what ways can you identify with the Israelites' rebellion, and how can you address these areas in your life?

3. How does understanding God's patience with Israel encourage you in your interactions with those who are resistant to the Gospel?

4. What steps can you take to cultivate courage and faithfulness in proclaiming God's truth in your current context?

5. How do the roles of prophets like Ezekiel, Jeremiah, and Isaiah inform your understanding of speaking truth in today's world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1:7-8
Similar to Ezekiel, Jeremiah is called to speak God's words without fear, regardless of the people's response. This highlights the consistent theme of prophetic obedience.

Isaiah 6:9-10
Isaiah is also sent to a people who will not listen, underscoring the persistent rebellion of Israel and the patience of God in sending prophets.

Matthew 10:14
Jesus instructs His disciples to proclaim the message of the Kingdom, even if people refuse to listen, reflecting the same principle of faithful proclamation seen in Ezekiel.