Ezekiel 2:5

KJV

And they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear, (for they [are] a rebellious house,) yet shall know that there hath been a prophet among them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they, whether they will hear {H8085}, or whether they will forbear {H2308},(for they are a rebellious {H4805} house {H1004},) yet shall know {H3045} that there hath been a prophet {H5030} among {H8432} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

Whether they listen or not, this rebellious house will still know that a prophet has been among them!

Berean Standard Bible

And whether they listen or refuse to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will know that a prophet has been among them.

American Standard Version

And they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear (for they are a rebellious house), yet shall know that there hath been a prophet among them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 2:5 serves as a foundational declaration in the prophet Ezekiel's divine commissioning, powerfully articulating God's unwavering purpose in delivering His word despite His foreknowledge of Israel's deep-seated rebellion. This verse encapsulates the profound challenge of Ezekiel's ministry, asserting that whether the exiles choose to heed or reject the divine message, they will ultimately be compelled to acknowledge the undeniable presence of a true prophet among them, thereby vindicating God's righteous dealings and the efficacy of His truth. It establishes that the success of God's word is not contingent upon immediate human repentance but upon its faithful proclamation and the ultimate revelation of divine reality.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This pivotal verse immediately follows Ezekiel's awe-inspiring vision of God's glory and holiness in [Ezekiel 1](/ezekiel/1 "Ezekiel 1 - The Vision of God's Glory"), which culminates in his call to prophetic ministry. After being commanded to stand and receive God's message in [Ezekiel 2:1-2](/ezekiel/2-1-2 "Ezekiel 2:1-2 - God Commissions Ezekiel"), the Lord explicitly describes the nature of the audience to whom Ezekiel is being sent. Verses [Ezekiel 2:3-4](/ezekiel/2-3-4 "Ezekiel 2:3-4 - Israel's Rebellion Described") characterize them as "impudent children and stiffhearted," a "rebellious house." Therefore, verse 5 functions as a crucial divine clarification regarding the anticipated reception of Ezekiel's message. It emphasizes that Ezekiel's faithfulness in delivering the word, rather than the people's immediate obedience, is the measure of his success, ensuring that God's truth is proclaimed and ultimately acknowledged, regardless of their response. This sets the challenging tone for the entire book, foreshadowing the resistance Ezekiel will face throughout his ministry.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ezekiel's prophetic ministry unfolded during the Babylonian exile, specifically among the Jewish captives settled by the Chebar Canal, following Nebuchadnezzar's initial deportation of Jerusalem's elite in 597 BC. Culturally, these exiles, despite experiencing divine judgment through the loss of their homeland and temple, often clung to false hopes of a swift return, fueled by deceptive messages from false prophets. They remained largely unrepentant, their hearts hardened against the very God who had delivered them from Egypt and established a covenant with them. The phrase "rebellious house" is not an overstatement but an accurate divine assessment of their persistent spiritual obstinacy and defiance, rooted in generations of covenant unfaithfulness. Their geographical displacement did not translate into spiritual transformation; instead, their rebellion continued even in captivity, making Ezekiel's task exceptionally difficult and underscoring the depth of their need for a divine word.
* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 2:5 significantly contributes to several profound themes central to the book of Ezekiel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Foreknowledge**, demonstrating that God sends His prophet fully aware of the likely rejection of His message. His divine plan is not thwarted by human obstinacy; rather, it incorporates it, ensuring His ultimate purposes are achieved, a truth echoed in passages like [Romans 9:18](/romans/9-18 "Romans 9:18 - God's Sovereignty in Mercy and Hardening"). Secondly, the verse underscores the **Unwavering Nature of Prophetic Witness**. Ezekiel's primary duty is to faithfully speak God's word, irrespective of the audience's response. This principle defines the true prophet's role, where success is measured by obedience to the divine commission, not by immediate human results, a concept powerfully articulated in [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Will Not Return Void"). Thirdly, the declaration "yet shall know that there hath been a prophet among them" points to **Accountability and the Justification of God**. Even in their rebellion, the people will be left without excuse; when God's judgments or promises come to pass, they will be compelled to acknowledge the undeniable presence of a genuine messenger of God, thereby validating God's righteous dealings with them. Finally, the parenthetical "for they are a rebellious house" reinforces the pervasive theme of **Israel's Deep-Seated Rebellion**, a characteristic that necessitates God's severe judgments and the eventual promise of a new heart in [Ezekiel 36:26](/ezekiel/36-26 "Ezekiel 36:26 - The Promise of a New Heart").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **hear (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** This primitive root signifies more than just auditory perception; it implies intelligent listening, often with the implication of attention, comprehension, and, crucially, obedience. In the context of prophetic address, to "hear" God's word means to receive it with an open heart and to act upon it in submission to divine authority.
* **forbear (Hebrew, _châdal'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be flabby" or "desist," this term indicates a cessation of action, an abstaining, or a holding back. In this verse, it refers to the act of refusing to listen or obey, to desist from heeding the divine message, implying stubborn resistance and a deliberate choice to remain idle or unresponsive to God's call.
* **rebellious (Hebrew, _mᵉrîy'_):** From a root signifying "bitterness," this term metaphorically describes a state of deep-seated defiance, stubbornness, or obstinacy against authority, specifically divine authority. It characterizes Israel not as occasionally disobedient, but as habitually and fundamentally resistant to God's will and covenant demands. Its use here emphasizes the ingrained spiritual condition of the exiles, whose rebellion persisted even after experiencing the consequences of their past unfaithfulness.
* **house (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** While literally meaning a physical dwelling, _bayith_ is often used metaphorically to refer to a family, household, or even a nation, emphasizing a collective identity and lineage. In "rebellious house," it signifies the entire nation of Israel, particularly the exiles, as a collective entity characterized by pervasive and generational defiance against God.
* **know (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** This primitive root encompasses a wide range of meanings, from simple factual awareness to intimate, experiential knowledge, and even recognition or acknowledgment. In this context, it signifies a forced recognition or an undeniable understanding. Even if they refuse to "hear" or "forbear" (obey), the people will be compelled to acknowledge the undeniable reality that a true prophet of God was among them, validating God's message and His just dealings with them, whether through judgment or eventual restoration.
* **prophet (Hebrew, _nâbîyʼ'_):** This term refers to one who is inspired by God, acting as His spokesperson. The prophet is not merely a foreteller of future events but primarily a forth-teller of God's word, delivering divine messages, warnings, and promises. The presence of a "prophet" among them means that God's direct communication and intervention were undeniably present, leaving the people without excuse for their continued rebellion.
* **among (Hebrew, _tâvek'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to sever" or "bisection," this word literally means "middle" or "midst." Its use here emphasizes the physical presence of the prophet within the community of exiles, signifying that God's messenger was tangibly present and accessible, delivering the divine word directly to them.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear,"**: This opening clause establishes the two possible human responses to God's message delivered through Ezekiel: active listening and obedient reception ("hear") or stubborn refusal and resistant inaction ("forbear"). It highlights the freedom of human will, yet sets up the divine foreknowledge that the latter is the more likely outcome for this particular audience. This framing immediately underscores the challenging nature of Ezekiel's commission.
* **"(for they [are] a rebellious house,)"**: This parenthetical statement provides the divine rationale for the preceding clause. It is not merely a descriptive aside but a definitive, God-given characterization of the people. Their "rebellious" nature is presented as an inherent, pervasive condition of the nation, explaining why God anticipates their rejection of the prophetic word. This phrase is a recurring motif in Ezekiel, emphasizing the depth and stubbornness of Israel's spiritual malady.
* **"yet shall know that there hath been a prophet among them."**: Despite their anticipated rebellion, God declares an undeniable, ultimate outcome: they will be compelled to "know" or acknowledge the presence of a legitimate divine messenger. This "knowing" may come through the fulfillment of the prophet's words (whether prophecies of judgment or restoration), or through the sheer undeniable force of God's presence and intervention in their midst. It ensures divine accountability, leaves no room for ignorance regarding God's persistent efforts to communicate with His people, and ultimately vindicates God's righteousness.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 2:5 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful and resolute message. The most prominent is **Antithesis** or **Parallelism**, vividly displayed in the contrasting phrases "whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear." This stark juxtaposition highlights the two mutually exclusive responses to divine revelation, emphasizing the choice presented to the people and God's foreknowledge of their likely rejection. The phrase "(for they are a rebellious house,)" functions as a crucial **Parenthesis**, providing an immediate, divine commentary that explains the anticipated negative response. This parenthetical insertion is a powerful rhetorical device, revealing God's profound understanding of His people's spiritual condition and serving as a divine justification for their future judgment. Furthermore, there is a subtle but profound **Irony** at play: although the people may actively refuse to listen to or obey the prophet, their very obstinacy will ultimately lead to a deeper, albeit painful, "knowing" that God's messenger was indeed among them. This ensures that God's word, even when rejected, still accomplishes its purpose of establishing truth and accountability. The recurring descriptor "rebellious house" throughout Ezekiel's prophecy also serves as a form of **Emphasis** and **Repetition**, underscoring the pervasive and ingrained nature of Israel's spiritual state.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 2:5 profoundly articulates God's unwavering commitment to revealing Himself and His will, even to a people resolutely set against Him. It underscores the divine prerogative in choosing and sending messengers, irrespective of the audience's receptivity. This verse highlights the crucial theological principle that God's word, once spoken, carries an inherent authority and purpose that transcends human response. It will not return void, but will accomplish what God intends, whether that is conviction, judgment, or salvation. The ultimate "knowing" ensures that no one can claim ignorance of God's truth, thus establishing a basis for divine justice and accountability. It affirms God's perfect foreknowledge and His sovereign plan, which unfolds even through human rebellion, ultimately leading to His vindication and the demonstration of His righteous character.

* [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "God's Word Accomplishes Its Purpose"): "So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it."
* [Deuteronomy 18:18-19](/deuteronomy/18-18-19 "The Prophet Like Moses and Accountability"): "I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him."
* [Luke 10:16](/luke/10-16 "Rejecting the Messenger, Rejecting Christ"): "He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 2:5 offers profound and timeless lessons for believers today, particularly concerning the nature of ministry and the reception of God's truth in a resistant world. It liberates us from the burden of measuring our faithfulness by the immediate responses of others, shifting our focus to the unwavering commitment of proclaiming God's word with integrity and courage. Our primary responsibility is to be faithful messengers, delivering the divine truth, regardless of whether it is met with open hearts or hardened resistance. This verse reminds us that God's patience is immense, as He continually sends His word, even to the most rebellious. Yet, it also underscores the ultimate accountability of all humanity. No one can claim ignorance of God's truth if it has been clearly presented, for God ensures that His presence and His message will ultimately be known, leading either to repentance and salvation or to justified judgment. This calls us to a deeper trust in God's sovereignty over outcomes and a renewed dedication to our prophetic calling in a world that often resists divine truth, knowing that God's word will accomplish its purpose.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be tempted to measure the "success" of my faith or ministry by human response rather than by my faithfulness to God's call?**
* **How does understanding God's foreknowledge of human rebellion in Ezekiel 2:5 strengthen my resolve to share His truth, even when facing resistance or apparent failure?**
* **What does it mean for me to live as if others "shall know that there hath been a prophet among them," even if they initially reject the message?**
* **How can I cultivate a heart that is truly open to "hear" God's word, avoiding the spiritual stubbornness characteristic of a "rebellious house"?**

### FAQ
**Why would God send a prophet if He knew the people wouldn't listen?**

Answer: God sends prophets, even to a "rebellious house," for several crucial reasons that demonstrate His character and ensure His purposes. Firstly, it demonstrates His persistent love, patience, and grace, offering repeated opportunities for repentance and restoration, even when He foresees rejection. God desires that none should perish ([2 Peter 3:9](/2_peter/3-9 "2 Peter 3:9 - God's Patience")). Secondly, it ensures accountability. By sending a clear message through a true prophet, God leaves the people without excuse for their continued sin. When judgment eventually comes, they cannot claim ignorance, for they "shall know that there hath been a prophet among them." This vindicates God's righteousness and justice. Thirdly, God's word always accomplishes its purpose, as seen in [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Will Not Return Void"). Even if it doesn't bring immediate repentance, it establishes truth, reveals hearts, and prepares the way for God's ultimate plan, whether that involves judgment or a future work of grace.

**What does it mean that they "shall know" that there hath been a prophet among them?**

Answer: The "knowing" here is not necessarily a willing or immediate acceptance, but a forced, undeniable recognition that will come to pass. It implies that through the unfolding of events—primarily the fulfillment of the prophet's words (both of judgment and eventual restoration), the undeniable power of God's presence, or the sheer weight of historical reality—the people will be compelled to acknowledge that a genuine messenger of God was indeed among them. This "knowing" serves to validate God's word and His dealings with humanity, leaving no room for doubt about His communication or His justice. It underscores the principle that God will ultimately be glorified and His truth acknowledged, even by those who initially resist it, fulfilling His purposes despite human rebellion.

**How does this verse relate to evangelism and Christian witness today?**

Answer: Ezekiel 2:5 provides a powerful paradigm for Christian witness and evangelism. It reminds us that our primary call is to faithfully proclaim God's truth, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, regardless of the immediate response of our audience. Like Ezekiel, we are sent to a world that is often "rebellious" and resistant to divine authority ([John 15:18-19](/john/15-18-19 "John 15:18-19 - The World Hates Believers")). Our success is not measured by the number of conversions, but by our obedience and faithfulness in delivering the message. This verse liberates us from the pressure of manipulating outcomes and instead focuses on the integrity of our witness. It also assures us that God's word, though rejected by some, will ultimately achieve its purpose, and people will eventually "know" the truth of God's presence and His saving work in Christ, either through conviction and repentance or through the undeniable reality of His coming judgment. We are called to be faithful sowers, trusting God for the harvest, as seen in [1 Corinthians 3:6-7](/1_corinthians/3-6-7 "1 Corinthians 3:6-7 - God Gives the Increase").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 2:5 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Just as Ezekiel was sent as a prophet to a "rebellious house" of Israel, so too was Jesus, the [Prophet like Moses](/deuteronomy/18-15 "Deuteronomy 18:15 - The Prophet Like Moses") promised by God, sent to His own people, who were often characterized by spiritual blindness and stubborn resistance, as lamented in [Matthew 23:37](/matthew/23-37 "Matthew 23:37 - Jesus' Lament over Jerusalem"). Despite His perfect life, miraculous signs, and unparalleled teachings, many rejected Him, refusing to "hear" His words and choosing to "forbear" His call to repentance and faith. Yet, precisely because of their rebellion and rejection, the ultimate purpose of God was fulfilled through His crucifixion and resurrection, ensuring that all would "know that there hath been a prophet among them"—indeed, the very Son of God, the Word made flesh ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). The resurrection of Christ, His ascension, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost ([Acts 2:36](/acts/2-36 "Acts 2:36 - Peter's Sermon on Pentecost")) served as undeniable proof that God's ultimate Prophet had been among them, leaving no room for doubt about His divine identity and mission. Through Christ, God's word, though rejected by many, established the new covenant and secured salvation for all who believe, demonstrating that God's message, even in the face of the greatest human rebellion, perfectly accomplishes His sovereign will, leading to the ultimate vindication of His truth and the revelation of His glory.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 33:33

And when this cometh to pass, (lo, it will come,) then shall they know that a prophet hath been among them.

Ezekiel 3:27

But when I speak with thee, I will open thy mouth, and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; He that heareth, let him hear; and he that forbeareth, let him forbear: for they [are] a rebellious house.

John 15:22

If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin.

Matthew 10:12

And when ye come into an house, salute it.

Matthew 10:15

Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.

Luke 10:10

But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say,

Luke 10:12

But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city.