◄ Ezekiel 2 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Ezekiel’s Call 1“Son of man,a” He said to me, “stand up on your feet and I will speak to you.” 2And as He spoke to me, the Spirit entered me and set me on my feet, and I heard Him speaking to me. 3“Son of man,” He said to me, “I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against Me. To this very day they and their fathers have rebelled against Me. 4They 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.’ 5And whether they listen or refuse to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will know that a prophet has been among them. 6But 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. 7But speak My words to them, whether they listen or refuse to listen, for they are rebellious. 8And you, son of man, listen to what I tell you. Do not be rebellious like that rebellious house. Open your mouth and eat what I give you.” 9Then I looked and saw a hand reaching out to me, and in it was a scroll, 10which He unrolled before me. And written on the front and back of it were words of lamentation, mourning, and woe. Footnotes: 1 a Or Son of Adam; here and throughout Ezekiel Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezekiel 2 Summary Ezekiel's Call Verses 1–2 – Rise and Receive the Spirit The LORD addresses Ezekiel as “son of man,” telling him to stand. As the command is spoken, the Spirit enters him and sets him on his feet, assuring him that the commission comes with divine power, not human strength. Verses 3–5 – Sent to a Rebellious House God sends Ezekiel to “the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against Me.” Their fathers and they alike have transgressed. Whether they listen or refuse, they will know a prophet has been among them—God guarantees a witness even if repentance is absent. Verses 6–7 – Fearless Messenger Ezekiel is told twice, “Do not be afraid,” despite briars, thorns, and scorpions—images of painful opposition. He must proclaim God’s words regardless of the audience’s response, free from intimidation. Verses 8–10 – The Scroll of Lament Ezekiel must not imitate the rebels; instead, he is to open his mouth and eat the scroll God hands him. Written on both sides are “lamentations, mourning, and woe,” revealing the severity and completeness of the coming message. Ezekiel 2 represents a pivotal moment in the life of the prophet Ezekiel as it outlines his divine calling and mission from God. The chapter reveals Ezekiel's commission to deliver God’s stern message to the rebellious children of Israel, offering insights into the character of God, the nature of prophecy, and the human propensity for rebellion. Historical Setting Ezekiel’s call occurs in 593 BC among the exiles by the Kebar Canal near Babylon (Ezekiel 1:1). Judah’s first deportation (597 BC) has shattered national hopes. Archaeological finds—Babylonian ration tablets listing “Jehoiachin, king of Judah”—confirm the exile’s reality. Ezekiel becomes God’s voice to captives who still dream of returning quickly and to Jerusalemites who assume the city is invincible. “Son of Man” Title Used over ninety times in the book, the phrase highlights Ezekiel’s humanity in contrast to the glory he beholds (1:28). In Daniel 7:13–14 the term points to a heavenly ruler; in the Gospels Jesus adopts it for Himself (Matthew 9:6; Mark 10:45), blending humility and authority. For Ezekiel it underscores dependence on God’s Spirit. The Spirit’s Empowering “Then the Spirit entered me and set me on my feet” (2:2). Similar scenes: Numbers 11:25 with the elders, 1 Samuel 10:10 with Saul, Acts 2:4 with the apostles. God never calls without enabling. Patterns of a Prophetic Commission 1. Divine appearance (1:4-28) 2. Fear or fall (1:28) 3. Command to stand (2:1) 4. Spirit empowerment (2:2) 5. Sending statement (2:3-5) 6. Assurance and warning (2:6-7) 7. Symbolic act, often involving a scroll (2:8-10; cf. Jeremiah 15:16; Revelation 10:8-11) The Rebellious House Israel’s defiance is chronic: Exodus 32 (golden calf), Numbers 14 (spies), 2 Kings 17 (idolatry). Ezekiel’s generation mirrors its ancestors. Romans 3:23 echoes the verdict: “All have sinned.” God’s word exposes, but also preserves a remnant (Ezekiel 6:8). Images of Briars, Thorns, and Scorpions Common desert hazards illustrate hostile hearers. Judges 8:7-16 and Isaiah 33:12 use similar language for enemies. God consoles Ezekiel: opposition is expected, yet powerless to stop His message. The Scroll Written on Both Sides Most ancient scrolls had writing on one side. A double-sided scroll, like the one in Revelation 5:1, signals completeness—nothing more can be added. The triad “lamentations, mourning, and woe” amplifies its gravity (Jeremiah 4:8; Zephaniah 1:15). By eating it (3:1-3) Ezekiel internalizes God’s word before speaking it—a pattern mirrored by believers who must “let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16). Fearlessness Commanded “Do not be afraid of them or their words” (2:6). Fear of people can mute truth (Proverbs 29:25). Acts 4:19-20 shows Peter and John obeying a similar mandate. Courage flows from focusing on God’s authority, not human reactions. Comparison with Moses, Isaiah, Jeremiah • Moses (Exodus 3–4): Reluctance countered by signs and promises. • Isaiah (Isaiah 6): Cleansing by a coal precedes sending. • Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1): Touching the mouth parallels Ezekiel’s scroll. All four commissions emphasize God’s initiative and the servant’s inadequacy apart from Him. Archaeological Notes Clay tablets from Babylon record food rations: “10 bêru oil to Yau-kinu, king of Judah.” These align with 2 Kings 25:27-30 and frame Ezekiel’s ministry among real exiles. Excavated scroll fragments show ink on both sides, supporting Ezekiel’s description. Connections to the New Testament • Jesus cites Ezekiel-like language when lamenting Jerusalem (Luke 13:34). • Paul’s insistence on preaching “whether people listen or refuse” echoes 2:5-7 (Acts 28:23-28). • Revelation’s scroll parallels 2:9-10; both announce judgment yet lead to final restoration (Revelation 21). Timeless Principles for Today 1. God still equips ordinary people to speak His truth. 2. Faithfulness is measured by obedience, not audience size or approval. 3. Internalizing Scripture precedes effective proclamation. 4. Opposition, even from God’s own people, should be expected but not feared. 5. A prophetic witness remains a mercy: God warns before He judges. Outline of Ezekiel 2 I. Command to Stand and Spirit Infusion (1–2) II. Mission to a Rebellious Nation (3–5) III. Charges to Be Fearless (6–7) IV. Scroll of Judgment and the Call to Consume It (8–10) Key Themes • Divine authority overcomes human frailty. • God’s word is both bitter in content and sweet in obedience (compare 3:3). • Judgment serves a redemptive aim: people “will know that a prophet has been among them.” Living the Message Ezekiel 2 challenges every believer to stand when called, speak when commanded, and trust God’s Spirit for strength. The chapter reminds us that success is defined by faithfulness, not by applause, and that even a hard word delivered in love is a gift from a holy God who longs for hearts to return to Him. Connections to Additional Scriptures Jeremiah 1:7-8 Similar to Ezekiel, Jeremiah is called to speak God's words without fear, highlighting the theme of divine empowerment for difficult missions. Matthew 10:19-20 Jesus assures His disciples that the Spirit will speak through them in times of persecution, echoing the empowerment Ezekiel received. Acts 4:29-31 The early church prays for boldness in proclaiming God's word, demonstrating the continued need for courage in sharing the gospel. Teaching Points The Call of Ezekiel Ezekiel 2:1-2 describes how God calls Ezekiel to stand and listen to His words. He said to me, 'Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you.' As He spoke to me, the Spirit entered me and set me on my feet, and I heard Him speaking to me. This highlights the importance of being attentive and ready to receive God's instructions. The Rebellious Nation In verses 3-4, God describes the people of Israel as a rebellious house. Despite their obstinacy, God sends Ezekiel to speak His words to them. This underscores God's desire for His people to return to Him, even when they are resistant. Fearlessness in Proclamation God commands Ezekiel in verse 6, But you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or their words. This is a powerful reminder that when God calls us to speak His truth, He also equips us with the courage to do so without fear. The Role of a Prophet Ezekiel is told in verse 7, You must speak My words to them, whether they listen or fail to listen, for they are rebellious. This emphasizes the prophet's duty to faithfully deliver God's message, regardless of the audience's response. The Scroll of Lamentation In verses 8-10, Ezekiel is given a scroll filled with words of lamentation, mourning, and woe. This symbolizes the serious and often difficult nature of the messages God may call us to deliver. Practical Applications Be Ready to Listen Like Ezekiel, we should be prepared to hear and respond to God's call in our lives, standing ready to act on His instructions. Speak Truth Boldly We are encouraged to speak God's truth with courage, even when it is unpopular or met with resistance. Trust in God's Strength When faced with daunting tasks, rely on the Holy Spirit to empower and guide you, just as He did with Ezekiel. Faithfulness Over Results Focus on being faithful in delivering God's message, trusting Him with the outcome, rather than being discouraged by others' reactions. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The chapter begins with the voice of the LORD speaking to Ezekiel. The LORD is the one commissioning Ezekiel as a prophet to the Israelites. In the Hebrew text, the name used is "YHWH" (יהוה), which is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations. 2. Ezekiel He is the primary human figure in this chapter, addressed by God as "son of man" (Hebrew: בֶּן־אָדָם, ben-adam). Ezekiel is called to be a prophet to the rebellious house of Israel. The term "son of man" emphasizes his humanity and his role as a representative of the people. 3. The Israelites Referred to as a "rebellious house" (Hebrew: בֵּית מְרִי, beit meri), the Israelites are the people to whom Ezekiel is sent. They are described as obstinate and stubborn, having transgressed against God. Places Ezekiel 2 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any geographical places. The chapter primarily focuses on Ezekiel's calling as a prophet and his commission to speak to the rebellious house of Israel. Since there are no specific places mentioned in this chapter, a numbered list of places cannot be provided. The chapter is more concerned with the spiritual and prophetic message rather than geographical locations. If you have any other questions or need further information, feel free to ask! Events 1. The Call of Ezekiel Ezekiel is addressed by God as "son of man" and is called to stand on his feet to receive God's words. This phrase "son of man" (Hebrew: בֶּן־אָדָם, ben-adam) emphasizes Ezekiel's humanity and his role as a representative of the people. 2. The Spirit Enters Ezekiel The Spirit enters Ezekiel, setting him on his feet, enabling him to hear God's voice. This signifies divine empowerment and preparation for his prophetic mission. 3. Commission to Speak to the Israelites God commissions Ezekiel to go to the rebellious house of Israel, described as a nation of rebels who have transgressed against God. The Hebrew term for "rebellious" (מְרוֹדִים, merodim) underscores their persistent disobedience. 4. Description of the Israelites The Israelites are described as "impudent and stubborn children" (Hebrew: קְשֵׁי־פָנִים וְחִזְקֵי־לֵב, qeshe-panim ve-chizkei-lev), highlighting their obstinacy and hard-heartedness. 5. Ezekiel's Role as a Prophet God instructs Ezekiel to deliver His words to the Israelites, whether they listen or fail to listen, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's command over the people's response. 6. Warning of Rejection Ezekiel is warned that the people may not listen to him, as they are a rebellious house. However, they will know that a prophet has been among them, affirming the authenticity of his prophetic office. 7. Command to Not Fear God tells Ezekiel not to fear the people or their words, even though they are described metaphorically as "briers and thorns" and "scorpions," indicating the potential hostility and danger he will face. 8. Instruction to Speak God's Words Ezekiel is commanded to speak God's words to the people, regardless of their willingness to hear, reinforcing the prophet's duty to faithfully convey God's message. 9. Symbolic Act of Eating the Scroll Ezekiel is instructed to open his mouth and eat a scroll given to him by God, symbolizing the internalization of God's message. This act signifies the prophet's complete acceptance and understanding of the divine words he is to proclaim. Lessons from Ezekiel 2 1. Embrace Your Calling with Courage In Ezekiel 2, God calls Ezekiel to be a prophet to the Israelites, a rebellious nation. This chapter reminds us that God equips us for the tasks He assigns, even when they seem daunting. "Do not be afraid of them or their words," God tells Ezekiel (Ezekiel 2:6). When God calls you to a mission, trust that He will provide the courage and strength you need to fulfill it. 2. Stand Firm in the Face of Opposition Ezekiel is warned that the people he is sent to are "obstinate and stubborn" (Ezekiel 2:4). Yet, he is instructed to deliver God's message regardless of their response. This teaches us to stand firm in our faith and convictions, even when faced with resistance. Remember, our responsibility is to speak truth, not to control how others receive it. 3. Listen Attentively to God's Voice Before Ezekiel can speak to the people, he must first listen to God. "Son of man, listen to what I say to you" (Ezekiel 2:8). This highlights the importance of being attuned to God's voice through prayer and Scripture. Make it a priority to seek His guidance daily, ensuring that your actions and words align with His will. 4. Be a Faithful Messenger God instructs Ezekiel to deliver His words faithfully, whether the people listen or not. "You must speak My words to them" (Ezekiel 2:7). This is a powerful reminder that our role is to be faithful messengers of God's truth. Share the Gospel with love and integrity, trusting God with the outcome. 5. Recognize the Power of God's Word Ezekiel is given a scroll to eat, symbolizing the internalization of God's message. "So I opened my mouth, and He fed me the scroll" (Ezekiel 2:9). This act signifies the transformative power of God's Word. Let Scripture nourish your soul and guide your actions, allowing it to shape your life from the inside out. 6. Understand the Weight of Responsibility Being chosen as God's messenger is a significant responsibility. Ezekiel's mission underscores the importance of taking our spiritual duties seriously. As believers, we are called to be ambassadors for Christ, sharing His love and truth with the world. Approach this calling with reverence and dedication. 7. Trust in God's Sovereignty God reassures Ezekiel that He is in control, despite the people's rebellion. "Whether they listen or refuse to listen" (Ezekiel 2:5), God's plan will prevail. This lesson encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that He is working all things for His glory and our good, even when circumstances seem challenging. 8. Be Prepared for Spiritual Challenges Ezekiel's mission is not without its challenges, as he is sent to a "rebellious house" (Ezekiel 2:5). This reminds us that following God's call may lead to spiritual battles. Equip yourself with the armor of God, staying rooted in prayer and Scripture, to withstand any trials you may face. 9. Cultivate a Heart of Obedience Ezekiel's willingness to obey God's command, despite the difficulties, is a testament to his faith. "Do not rebel like that rebellious house" (Ezekiel 2:8). Cultivate a heart of obedience, ready to follow God's lead wherever He may take you. Trust that His plans are always for your ultimate good. 10. Find Strength in God's Presence Throughout Ezekiel's mission, God's presence is a constant source of strength and encouragement. "The Spirit entered me and set me on my feet" (Ezekiel 2:2). In your own journey, rely on the Holy Spirit to empower and guide you. Remember, you are never alone; God is with you every step of the way. Topics 1. The Call of Ezekiel Ezekiel 2 begins with God calling Ezekiel to be a prophet. The chapter opens with God addressing Ezekiel as "son of man," a term that emphasizes his humanity and distinction from the divine. The Hebrew term used here is "ben adam," which underscores Ezekiel's role as a representative of humanity. 2. The Commission to Speak to Israel God commissions Ezekiel to speak to the rebellious house of Israel. The Israelites are described as "a rebellious nation" (Ezekiel 2:3), highlighting their defiance against God. The Hebrew word for "rebellious" is "mĕrid," indicating a deliberate resistance to divine authority. 3. The Stubbornness of the People The chapter emphasizes the stubbornness and obstinacy of the Israelites. God warns Ezekiel that the people are "obstinate and stubborn" (Ezekiel 2:4). The Hebrew words "qasheh" (hard) and "chazaq" (strong) are used to describe their resistance, painting a picture of a people set in their ways. 4. The Role of the Prophet Despite the people's rebellion, Ezekiel is instructed to deliver God's message, whether they listen or not. This underscores the prophet's role as a faithful messenger. God tells Ezekiel, "whether they listen or refuse to listen" (Ezekiel 2:5), emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's command over the people's response. 5. The Vision of the Scroll Ezekiel is shown a vision of a scroll, which is a significant symbol of his prophetic mission. The scroll is described as being "written on both sides" and containing "words of lamentation, mourning, and woe" (Ezekiel 2:10). This imagery highlights the gravity and seriousness of the message Ezekiel is to deliver. Themes 1. Divine Commissioning Ezekiel 2 begins with God commissioning Ezekiel as a prophet. The Lord instructs him to stand up and listen to His words: "Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you" (Ezekiel 2:1). The term "son of man" (Hebrew: בֶּן־אָדָם, ben-adam) emphasizes Ezekiel's humanity and his role as a representative of the people. 2. Empowerment by the Spirit The Spirit enters Ezekiel, enabling him to stand and receive God's message: "As He spoke to me, the Spirit entered me and set me on my feet, and I heard Him speaking to me" (Ezekiel 2:2). This empowerment by the Spirit (Hebrew: רוּחַ, ruach) is crucial for his prophetic mission. 3. Rebellious Nature of Israel God describes the Israelites as a "rebellious house" (Ezekiel 2:5), highlighting their obstinate nature. The Hebrew word for rebellious (מְרִי, meri) underscores their defiance against God's commands. 4. Prophetic Responsibility Ezekiel is tasked with delivering God's message regardless of the people's response: "And whether they listen or refuse to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will know that a prophet has been among them" (Ezekiel 2:5). This theme emphasizes the prophet's duty to speak God's truth. 5. Fearlessness in Proclamation God instructs Ezekiel not to fear the people's reactions: "But you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or their words" (Ezekiel 2:6). The call to fearlessness is crucial for fulfilling his prophetic role amidst opposition. 6. Consumption of the Scroll Ezekiel is commanded to eat a scroll containing words of lamentation and woe: "Son of man, eat what you find; eat this scroll, and go, speak to the house of Israel" (Ezekiel 2:8). This act symbolizes internalizing God's message before proclaiming it. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that is open and ready to receive God's call, just as Ezekiel was attentive to God's voice. Ask for boldness and courage to speak God's truth in love, even in the face of opposition or indifference. Seek the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment in fulfilling the tasks God has set before you. Pray for those who are resistant to God's message, that their hearts may be softened and receptive to His truth. Answering Tough Questions 1. Ezekiel 2:1–2: How can a literal “Spirit” physically enter Ezekiel, and is there any natural or historical explanation for such an event? 2. Ezekiel 2:3–4: Why do we lack clear historical evidence to confirm or challenge God’s claim that Israel was actively rebelling at that time? 3. Ezekiel 2:6: Is there any archaeological or historical record linking scorpions or such imagery to the prophet’s experience or Israelite culture? 4. Ezekiel 2:7: Does the harsh tone and impending judgment contradict depictions of God’s mercy in other Bible passages? 5. Ezekiel 2:8–10: How do we reconcile the command to physically eat a scroll with scientific plausibility and the lack of mention of any lasting effects? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Ezekiel 2 challenge your understanding of obedience to God? 2. How can Ezekiel's commission be applied to the concept of personal responsibility in your life? 3. Reflecting on God's description of Israel, how do you see rebellion manifesting in society today? 4. How do you respond when faced with delivering difficult truths to resistant individuals? Can you draw parallels to Ezekiel's mission? 5. God commanded Ezekiel not to be afraid despite resistance. How can we cultivate such fearlessness in our lives? 6. What does the symbol of the scroll with lament and woe signify? How does this symbolism resonate with you? 7. Can you identify times in your life when you felt God's spirit "stand you up," just like Ezekiel? 8. In what ways are we sometimes like the rebellious house of Israel? 9. What does it mean to you that "they will know a prophet has been among them," even if they do not heed the prophet's words? 10. How can we ensure we're open to God's messages, unlike the rebellious Israelites? 11. How do you balance the responsibility to speak truth to those resistant to it with the need to maintain relationships and peace? 12. In what ways does Ezekiel's call inspire you to answer your own personal 'callings' in life? 13. In your current context, what might "eating the scroll" look like? 14. If you were in Ezekiel's position, how would you feel upon receiving such a challenging commission from God? 15. What strategies can we employ when we are faced with delivering unpalatable truths? 16. How do you feel about the concept of divine calling? Do you feel called to something particular in your life? 17. How do you perceive God's character based on His dialogue with Ezekiel in this chapter? 18. What steps can we take to ensure we are not "rebellious" in our spiritual journey? 19. How does God equipping Ezekiel in his calling speak to God's provision in your life's challenges? 20. How does this chapter reflect on the importance of perseverance despite the hardness of others' hearts? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions