Ezekiel 2:6

But you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or their words. Do not be afraid, though briers and thorns surround you, and you dwell among scorpions. Do not be afraid of their words or dismayed by their presence, though they are a rebellious house.

Study Bible

And you, son of man
The phrase "son of man" is a title used frequently in the book of Ezekiel, emphasizing the prophet's humanity and his role as a representative of the people. In Hebrew, "ben adam" underscores the contrast between the divine and the human, reminding Ezekiel of his mortal nature and the humility required in his prophetic mission. This title also foreshadows the use of "Son of Man" in the New Testament, where it is applied to Jesus Christ, highlighting His incarnation and identification with humanity.

do not be afraid of them
The command "do not be afraid" is a recurring biblical exhortation, often given to God's servants when they face daunting tasks or opposition. In Hebrew, the word for "afraid" is "yare," which conveys a sense of dread or terror. God reassures Ezekiel, as He does many others throughout Scripture, that His presence and power are greater than any human threat. This encouragement is a reminder of God's sovereignty and faithfulness, calling believers to trust in Him despite external circumstances.

or their words
Words can be powerful weapons, and the phrase "or their words" acknowledges the potential harm of verbal attacks. In the context of Ezekiel's ministry, the people of Israel were rebellious and resistant to God's message. The Hebrew term for "words" here is "devarim," which can also mean "things" or "matters," indicating the broader scope of opposition Ezekiel might face. This highlights the importance of spiritual resilience and the need to focus on God's truth rather than human criticism.

though briers and thorns are all around you
"Briers and thorns" symbolize the difficulties and obstacles Ezekiel would encounter in his prophetic mission. In the ancient Near East, these terms were often used metaphorically to describe hostile environments or adversarial people. The imagery suggests that Ezekiel's path would not be easy, yet he is called to persevere. This metaphor also reflects the curse of Genesis 3:18, where thorns and thistles are a result of the fall, reminding us of the fallen world's resistance to God's word.

and you live among scorpions
The mention of "scorpions" further intensifies the imagery of danger and hostility. Scorpions, known for their painful sting, represent the potential harm from those who oppose God's message. In the ancient world, scorpions were feared creatures, and their presence in this passage underscores the severity of the opposition Ezekiel would face. This serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual warfare inherent in proclaiming God's truth and the need for divine protection.

Do not be afraid of their words
The repetition of "do not be afraid" emphasizes the importance of courage and faith in the face of adversity. The focus on "their words" again highlights the potential for verbal persecution and the need for steadfastness. This reassurance is a call to prioritize God's voice over human opinion, encouraging believers to remain faithful to their calling despite opposition.

or dismayed by their presence
The word "dismayed" in Hebrew is "chathath," which conveys a sense of being shattered or broken. The phrase "by their presence" suggests the intimidating nature of those who oppose God's message. Ezekiel is urged not to be overwhelmed by the physical or psychological presence of his adversaries. This is a call to spiritual fortitude, reminding believers that God's presence is more powerful than any earthly threat.

though they are a rebellious house
The term "rebellious house" refers to the people of Israel, who had consistently turned away from God's commandments. In Hebrew, "rebellious" is "meri," indicating a willful defiance against divine authority. This characterization of Israel sets the stage for the challenges Ezekiel would face, as he was tasked with delivering God's message to a stubborn and obstinate people. It serves as a sobering reminder of the human tendency to resist God's will and the need for repentance and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. Known for his visions and symbolic acts.

2. Israelites
The rebellious house referred to in the verse, representing the people of Israel who were in exile due to their disobedience to God.

3. Babylon
The place of exile for the Israelites, where Ezekiel was called to prophesy.

4. Briers and Thorns
Symbolic of the difficulties and opposition Ezekiel would face in delivering God's message.

5. Scorpions
Metaphorically used to describe the hostile and dangerous environment Ezekiel would encounter.

Teaching Points

Courage in the Face of Opposition
As believers, we are often called to stand firm in our faith despite societal pressures and opposition. Ezekiel's example encourages us to rely on God's strength.

Faithfulness to God's Call
Ezekiel's mission was challenging, yet he remained faithful. We are reminded to be steadfast in our own callings, trusting in God's purpose.

Understanding Spiritual Warfare
The imagery of briers, thorns, and scorpions highlights the spiritual battles we face. Recognizing these challenges helps us prepare and rely on God's armor.

God's Assurance and Presence
The repeated command not to fear underscores God's promise to be with us. This assurance is vital for our daily walk with Him.

Responding to Rebellion with Truth
Ezekiel was sent to a rebellious people, yet he was to speak God's truth. We are called to lovingly and boldly share the Gospel, even when met with resistance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's experience of facing opposition relate to the challenges Christians face today in sharing their faith?

2. In what ways can we draw strength from God's assurance to "not be afraid" when we encounter difficult situations?

3. How can the imagery of briers, thorns, and scorpions help us understand the nature of spiritual warfare in our lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to remain faithful to God's calling, even when it seems daunting?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Ezekiel 2:6 to encourage others who are facing their own spiritual battles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1:8
Similar to Ezekiel, Jeremiah is also instructed not to be afraid of the people he is sent to, emphasizing God's protection over His prophets.

Matthew 10:28
Jesus instructs His disciples not to fear those who can harm the body but cannot harm the soul, reinforcing the call to fear God above all.

2 Corinthians 12:10
Paul speaks of finding strength in weakness, which relates to Ezekiel's call to stand firm despite opposition.

Psalm 23:4
The assurance of God's presence even in the darkest valleys, paralleling the encouragement given to Ezekiel.

Hebrews 13:6
The confidence that the Lord is our helper, and we need not fear what man can do to us.