What does Ezekiel 2:6 mean?
What is the meaning of Ezekiel 2:6?

But you, son of man

- The title “son of man” identifies Ezekiel as God’s appointed messenger—an ordinary human charged with an extraordinary commission (Ezekiel 2:1; Daniel 8:17).

- It underscores that the authority behind the message is God’s, not Ezekiel’s, reassuring us that when God calls, He equips (2 Corinthians 3:5–6).


Do not be afraid of them or their words

- God anticipates hostile listeners, yet He repeatedly commands courage (Jeremiah 1:8; Matthew 10:28).

- “Their words” include ridicule, threats, and dismissal, but divine calling outweighs human scorn (Psalm 56:4; 1 Peter 3:14).


Do not be afraid, though briers and thorns surround you

- Briers and thorns picture painful resistance—people whose attitudes scratch and tear (Micah 7:4).

- Even when ministry feels like walking through a bramble patch, the Lord’s presence guarantees progress (Isaiah 43:2).


And you dwell among scorpions

- Scorpions evoke danger that can sting and paralyze (Deuteronomy 8:15).

- The servant of God may live amid venomous hostility, yet Christ grants authority “to trample on serpents and scorpions” (Luke 10:19), assuring ultimate safety.


Do not be afraid of their words

- The repetition drives home that intimidation is Satan’s favored tactic; steadfast faith neutralizes it (Psalm 118:6; Hebrews 13:6).

- Courage here is not bravado but settled trust in God’s sovereignty.


Or dismayed by their presence

- “Dismayed” points to inward collapse. God forbids it, promising His own steadfast presence (Deuteronomy 31:8; Joshua 1:9).

- When fears flare, remember that God’s throne is never shaken by earth’s turbulence (Psalm 46:1–3).


Though they are a rebellious house

- Israel’s rebellion is longstanding (Exodus 32:9; Acts 7:51), yet God still sends prophets—proof of relentless grace.

- Ezekiel must speak regardless of response (Ezekiel 3:7–9); results belong to God.


summary

Ezekiel 2:6 calls God’s messenger to fearless obedience amid fierce opposition. Hostile words, prickly resistance, and venomous hostility cannot thwart a servant upheld by the Lord. Our task mirrors Ezekiel’s: proclaim truth faithfully, rest in God’s protection, and refuse intimidation, trusting that His Word never returns void.

Why is the phrase 'whether they listen or refuse' significant in Ezekiel 2:5?
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