Ezekiel 33:31

And they come vnto thee as the people commeth, and they sit before thee as my people, and they heare thy words, but they will not doe them: for with their mouth they shew much loue, but their heart goeth after their couetousnesse. Ezekiel 33:31 (KJV)

Let us examine Ezekiel 33:31, a passage situated in the prophetic ministry of Ezekiel during a period of profound spiritual decline in Israel. The verse records the prophet’s observation that many gathered before him, appearing eager to be counted among God’s people, yet their conduct betrayed a different reality.

The outward presence of the people is evident: they come to Ezekiel, sit before him, and give the impression of attentive listeners. This visible posture suggests a desire to be perceived as faithful and obedient members of the community.

Despite this outward display, the verse exposes a superficial devotion. The listeners “hear thy words” but do not put them into practice. Their mouths proclaim love, yet their hearts are drawn after covetousness—material desire and self‑interest dominate their inner life. This gap between spoken affection and lived obedience reveals a stark hypocrisy.

The passage also highlights a lack of repentance. The remaining Israelites persist in the ways of their fathers, refusing to turn away from entrenched customs. Because of this obstinacy, Ezekiel warns that the nation will become a proverb, a scorner, and a laughingstock among surrounding peoples.

The contrast between hearing and obeying is central: merely hearing the word is insufficient; true transformation requires a heartfelt response. The people’s lip‑service does not translate into genuine obedience, and their hearts remain fixed on selfish pursuits.

For contemporary believers, this verse serves as a sobering reminder to examine our own lives. It calls us to align our actions with our professed faith, to guard against the dangers of hypocrisy, and to cultivate a heart wholly devoted to God rather than to covetous aims. Though Ezekiel’s original audience was Israel, the principles conveyed are universal, urging every generation to pursue authentic repentance and sincere devotion to the Lord.