Old Testament
Ezekiel 2:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You will speak my words to them, whether they listen or refuse, for they are most rebellious.
Compare translations
And thou shalt speak my words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear: for they are most rebellious.
What Ezekiel 2:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is telling Ezekiel that his job is to communicate God's messages to the people, regardless of their willingness to listen. The people are described as rebellious, meaning they often resist or ignore what they are told. This highlights the challenge of sharing important truths with those who may not want to hear them. Ezekiel is called to be faithful in delivering these messages, even when faced with rejection. It’s a reminder that the responsibility of sharing wisdom and guidance doesn’t depend on the audience’s response. Instead, it’s about being true to the message and the purpose behind it. This can be a tough task, but it’s essential for growth and understanding. The focus is on the importance of perseverance in communication, especially when the message is vital for the listeners' well-being. Ultimately, it’s about being a voice of truth in a world that often turns away from it, encouraging us to stand firm in our convictions and share what we believe is right.
How to apply Ezekiel 2:7 to your life
When faced with resistance, remember that sharing your truth is important, even if others don’t want to hear it. Stay committed to your values and beliefs. Your words can still make a difference, even if the response isn’t what you hoped for. Keep speaking up for what matters to you and others around you. Be brave in your convictions, and trust the process of communication.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Ezekiel 2:7
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Ezekiel 2:7
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Ezekiel
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 2:7 teach about communication?
Ezekiel 2:7 emphasizes the importance of delivering messages faithfully, regardless of the audience's willingness to listen. It highlights that the responsibility of sharing truth lies with the speaker, not the listener's response. This teaches us that effective communication often involves perseverance, especially when the message is crucial for others' understanding and growth.
How can I apply Ezekiel 2:7 in my life?
You can apply Ezekiel 2:7 by remaining committed to sharing your beliefs and values, even when faced with resistance or indifference. This verse encourages you to speak up for what you believe in, understanding that your words can still have an impact, regardless of how they are received. It’s about being brave and true to your convictions.
Why is perseverance important in sharing messages?
Perseverance in sharing messages, as illustrated in Ezekiel 2:7, is crucial because it reflects commitment to truth and the well-being of others. Even when faced with rejection, continuing to communicate can lead to eventual understanding and growth. It reinforces the idea that the act of sharing wisdom is valuable, regardless of immediate outcomes.
What can we learn about rejection from Ezekiel 2:7?
Ezekiel 2:7 teaches that rejection is a possibility when sharing important messages, but it should not discourage us. The verse encourages us to focus on the act of communicating truth rather than the audience's response. This perspective helps us to remain steadfast in our beliefs and continue to advocate for what is right, even in the face of opposition.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.