How should we respond when others reject the truth of God's message? When Truth Meets Resistance: Setting the Scene Ezekiel’s call came to a people who had hardened their hearts. God never hid the likelihood of rejection, yet He still sent His servant. The same reality faces every believer who speaks God’s Word today. Ezekiel 2:5—Our Non-Negotiable Mission “And whether they listen or refuse to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will know that a prophet has been among them.” Key observations: • The message is delivered “whether they listen or refuse to listen.” • The goal is that people recognize God has spoken, even if they reject the content. • Success is measured by faithfulness, not by audience response. What Rejection Cannot Change • God’s Word remains true (Isaiah 55:11). • Our calling remains clear (2 Timothy 4:2). • Christ’s authority stands behind the messenger (Luke 10:16). • The Holy Spirit still convicts (John 16:8). Right Responses When Others Refuse the Message • Stay faithful to speak. – “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.” (2 Timothy 4:2) – Ezekiel kept proclaiming for decades, though few listened. • Maintain courage, not intimidation. – “Do not be terrified by them.” (Jeremiah 1:17) – God fortified Jeremiah “as a bronze wall”; He equips us likewise. • Demonstrate Christlike humility and respect. – “Always be prepared to give a defense… but respond with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15) • Leave the results to God. – Shaking dust off the feet (Matthew 10:14) reminds us we cannot force belief. – Our task ends with clear testimony; conviction belongs to the Spirit. • Keep perspective on personal rejection. – People are ultimately rejecting Christ, not merely us (Luke 10:16). – Knowing this guards the heart from bitterness. • Persevere in hope. – Ezekiel 3:17–19 shows that warning others frees the messenger from blood-guilt. – Even a single repentant hearer is worth the effort (Luke 15:7). Encouragement from Scripture • God sees every faithful effort—“They will know that a prophet has been among them.” • When truth is resisted, the Word still fulfills its purpose—either softening hearts to salvation or confirming rebellion (2 Corinthians 2:15-16). • The Lord promises His presence—“I am with you to deliver you.” (Jeremiah 1:19) Walking It Out Today • Pray for courage before sharing; then speak plainly. • Anchor confidence in Scripture, not in personal skill or persuasion. • Respond to hostility with grace, modeling the patience God shows us. • After rejection, entrust the hearer to God and keep sowing elsewhere. • Revisit Ezekiel 2–3 often; let his example strengthen resolve for steady, loving proclamation. |
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