Old Testament

Ezekiel 3:4

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this passage, God speaks directly to Ezekiel, calling him 'Son of man,' which emphasizes his humanity and role as a messenger.

Author: Ezekiel the prophet
Written: Around 590 BC
Genre: Prophecy
Original Audience: Exiled Israelites in Babylon

CBTClear Bible Translation

Then he said to me, "Son of man, go now to the house of Israel and speak my words to them.

KJVKing James Version

And he said unto me, Son of man, go, get thee unto the house of Israel, and speak with my words unto them.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, God speaks directly to Ezekiel, calling him 'Son of man,' which emphasizes his humanity and role as a messenger. God instructs Ezekiel to go to the people of Israel and deliver His words. This task is significant because it highlights the importance of communication between God and His people. Ezekiel is not just a passive observer; he is an active participant in conveying God's message. The phrase 'speak my words' indicates that Ezekiel is to share God's thoughts and intentions, not his own. This underscores the responsibility of sharing truth and guidance with others. The call to action is clear: Ezekiel must step out of his comfort zone and engage with the community. This moment marks the beginning of Ezekiel's prophetic mission, where he will face challenges but also have the opportunity to impact lives. It serves as a reminder that we, too, are called to share meaningful messages with those around us, fostering connection and understanding in our communities.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Ezekiel 3:4 to your life

Consider how you can share meaningful messages with those around you. Reflect on the importance of speaking truthfully and compassionately. Engage with your community and be open to sharing your insights and experiences, just as Ezekiel was called to do. Your words can make a difference in someone's life today.

Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Ezekiel 3:4 mean?

Ezekiel 3:4 means that God is commissioning Ezekiel to go to the Israelites and deliver His messages. This emphasizes Ezekiel's role as a prophet and the importance of sharing God's words with the people.

What is the significance of 'Son of man' in Ezekiel 3:4?

The term 'Son of man' highlights Ezekiel's humanity and his role as a messenger of God. It signifies his connection to the people he is sent to and underscores the gravity of his mission.

What does 'speak my words' mean in Ezekiel 3:4?

'Speak my words' means that Ezekiel is to convey God's thoughts and intentions, not his own. It emphasizes the responsibility of delivering God's truth to the people.

How can I apply Ezekiel 3:4 in my life?

You can apply Ezekiel 3:4 by being open to sharing meaningful messages with those around you. Reflect on the importance of speaking truthfully and engaging with your community.

Book Summary

The Book of Ezekiel

Ezekiel 1: Visions of God

The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, by the river Chebar in the land of the Chaldeans. He sees visions of God as the heavens open. A great cloud comes from the north with a fire flashing continually and brightness around it, and from the midst appears something like glowing metal. From the fire emerge four living creatures, each with the likeness of a man. Each has four faces and four wings, and their legs are straight with feet like a calf's foot, shining like polished brass. Their faces are those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, and their wings are joined one to another as they move straight forward without turning.

Beside each living creature appears a wheel on the earth, and the wheels have the appearance of a wheel within a wheel. Their rims are high and full of eyes all around. When the living creatures move, the wheels move with them, and the spirit of the living creature is in the wheels. Above the heads of the living creatures is the likeness of a firmament like crystal, and above the firmament is the likeness of a throne like a sapphire stone. Upon the throne is the likeness of a man with brightness like fire and a rainbow around him. Ezekiel sees the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD, and when he sees it, he falls upon his face and hears a voice speaking. Ezekiel 2: Son of Man, Stand Upon Your Feet The voice says to him, "Son of man, stand upon your feet, and I will speak unto you." The Spirit enters him and sets him on his feet, and the LORD speaks to him. The LORD says he sends him to the children of Israel, a rebellious nation that has transgressed against Him. Their fathers have rebelled, and they continue in stubbornness and impudence. Ezekiel is sent to speak the LORD's words to them whether they hear or refuse to hear. The LORD tells him they shall know that a prophet has been among them. The LORD warns him not to fear them or their words, though they are like briers and thorns and though he dwells among scorpions. He is not to be afraid of their faces. He must speak the LORD's words to them whether they listen or refuse, for they are most rebellious. The LORD commands him not to be rebellious like that rebellious house. He is told to open his mouth and eat what the LORD gives him. He sees a hand with a scroll written inside and outside with lamentations, mourning, and woe.

Premium

Unlock the full Ezekiel summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Ezekiel — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 48 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Ezekiel summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.

← Verse 3 Verse 5 →