Ezekiel 3:11

And goe, get thee to them of the captiuity, vnto thy people, and speake vnto them and tell them, Thus saith the Lord God, whether they will heare, or whether they will forbeare. Ezekiel 3:11 (KJV)

Context

To understand this verse it is essential to recognize its historical setting. The book of Ezekiel records the ministry of the prophet Ezekiel, who lived among the Jewish exiles in Babylon during the sixth century BC. God called him to be a messenger to the Israelites who were in captivity, delivering divine messages to His people.

God’s Commission

In this passage God commands Ezekiel to go to the captives and proclaim His word. Although the people had been disobedient and were suffering the consequences of exile, God still cared for them and desired to communicate His will through the prophet.

Audience

The phrase “them of the captivity” refers specifically to the Israelites living in Babylon. They were God’s chosen people, now experiencing the results of their unfaithfulness.

The Prophet’s Role

Ezekiel is presented as a mouthpiece for God. The instruction to “speak unto them” and to deliver the message exactly as God commands underscores the prophet’s duty to convey the divine message without alteration, even when the content is hard for the listeners to accept.

God’s Sovereignty

The declaration “Thus saith the Lord GOD” affirms that Ezekiel’s words carry divine authority. The message originates from God, emphasizing His control over the destiny of His people regardless of how they respond.

Willingness vs. Response

The clause “whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear” acknowledges that the people may either receive the message or reject it. The outcome depends not on Ezekiel’s eloquence but on the hearers’ hearts.

Application

This verse challenges believers to faithfully deliver God’s truth, even in hostile or discouraging circumstances. Our responsibility is obedience and proclamation; the response belongs to God. When faced with rejection, we are called to trust in God’s sovereignty and His power to work in hearts.

Overall

Ezekiel 3:11 conveys God’s commission to Ezekiel to proclaim His word to the exiled Israelites, regardless of their reaction. It highlights the prophet’s role, the certainty of divine authority, and the importance of steadfast obedience in sharing God’s truth.