What does "whether they listen or refuse" teach about human response to God's word? Setting the Scene Ezekiel 2:7 — “But speak My words to them, whether they listen or refuse, for they are rebellious.” Key Phrase Spotlight: “Whether They Listen or Refuse” • God acknowledges two possible reactions to His Word: hearing with submission or rejecting with stubbornness. • The responsibility of the messenger is unchanged by either response. • Human freedom to obey or rebel is real, yet it never alters the truth or authority of God’s message. What This Reveals About Human Response • Dual Possibility – People retain the ability to choose acceptance or rejection (cf. Deuteronomy 30:19). • Predictable Resistance – Rebellion is expected; God is not surprised by human hardness (Isaiah 30:9). • Accountability Remains – Listening or refusing, every hearer is accountable for what they have heard (James 1:22–24). • Divine Persistence – God keeps speaking even to a rebellious audience, displaying His mercy (2 Peter 3:9). The Messenger’s Mandate • Proclaim faithfully, not conditionally – Success is measured by obedience to God, not by audience approval. • Depend on God’s authority, not personal persuasiveness – The power lies in “My words,” not human rhetoric. • Leave results to the Lord – Conversion is God’s work (1 Corinthians 3:6). Practical Takeaways for Today • Share Scripture plainly, trusting its power. • Expect mixed reactions without losing heart. • Keep integrity; altering the message to gain acceptance is disobedience. • Pray for softened hearts, knowing God still reaches rebels (Acts 16:14). Supporting Scriptures • Deuteronomy 30:19 — Choice between life and death set before the people. • Isaiah 55:11 — God’s word accomplishes His purpose. • Jeremiah 6:10 — Ears uncircumcised, unable to listen. • Matthew 13:13–15 — Parable of the soils explains varied responses. • John 12:48 — The word spoken will judge on the last day. • Acts 28:24 — “Some were convinced… others would not believe.” Summary “Whether they listen or refuse” highlights humanity’s freedom and responsibility, God’s unwavering truth, and the call for His servants to speak boldly, resting in the certainty that His Word never returns void. |
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