Ezekiel 3:11

KJV

And go, get thee to them of the captivity, unto the children of thy people, and speak unto them, and tell them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear.

KJV (with Strong's)

And go {H3212}, get {H935} thee to them of the captivity {H1473}, unto the children {H1121} of thy people {H5971}, and speak {H1696} unto them, and tell {H559} them, Thus saith {H559} the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069}; whether they will hear {H8085}, or whether they will forbear {H2308}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then go to the exiles, to your countrymen; and speak to them. Tell them, 'Here is what Adonai ELOHIM, says,' whether they listen or not."

Berean Standard Bible

Go to your people, the exiles; speak to them and tell them, ‘This is what the Lord GOD says,’ whether they listen or refuse to listen.”

American Standard Version

And go, get thee to them of the captivity, unto the children of thy people, and speak unto them, and tell them, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah; whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 3:11 marks a crucial moment in the prophet Ezekiel's divine commission, where the Lord GOD explicitly directs him to deliver His message to the Jewish exiles in Babylon. This verse underscores the prophet's immediate and non-negotiable responsibility to speak God's word directly to his own people, irrespective of their anticipated response. It highlights the divine authority behind Ezekiel's ministry and the sovereign will of God to communicate with His rebellious nation, even in their captivity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated immediately after Ezekiel's profound and overwhelming call to prophetic ministry, detailed in chapters 1-3. Having received a glorious vision of God's throne-chariot and consumed the divine scroll containing "lamentations, and mourning, and woe" ([Ezekiel 2:10](/ezekiel/2-10 "Ezekiel 2:10 - The Scroll of Woe")), Ezekiel is now physically empowered and spiritually prepared for his task. The preceding verses (Ezekiel 3:1-10) emphasize the challenging nature of his mission, as he is sent to a "rebellious house" ([Ezekiel 2:3](/ezekiel/2-3 "Ezekiel 2:3 - Israel, a Rebellious House")) with a message that will likely be met with resistance. Verse 11 serves as the direct command to begin this difficult work, specifying his audience and the non-negotiable nature of his proclamation. It is the practical instruction following the spiritual equipping.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ezekiel prophesied during the Babylonian exile, specifically among the first wave of Jewish captives deported by Nebuchadnezzar in 597 BC, following the siege of Jerusalem. These exiles, including Ezekiel himself, were settled by the Chebar River (likely a canal) in Mesopotamia. They lived as a community, grappling with the trauma of displacement, the loss of their homeland and temple, and the theological implications of their captivity. Many held onto false hopes of a swift return to Jerusalem or believed the false prophets who contradicted God's true message. Culturally, the people were accustomed to hearing from prophets, but often selectively, preferring messages of comfort over those of judgment or repentance. Ezekiel's commission to "the children of thy people" underscores the profound connection he had to his audience, making his message both personal and weighty within this displaced community.
* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 3:11 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Ezekiel. First, it powerfully reinforces the theme of **Divine Commission and Authority**. Ezekiel is not a self-appointed prophet; his mandate comes directly from "the Lord GOD," emphasizing the divine origin and binding nature of his message. Second, it highlights **Prophetic Responsibility**, stressing that Ezekiel's duty is to faithfully deliver God's word, regardless of the outcome. His success is measured by his obedience in speaking, not by the people's reception, a principle echoed in other prophetic calls like that of [Jeremiah](/jeremiah/1 "Jeremiah 1 - Jeremiah's Call"). Third, the phrase "whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear" introduces the critical theme of **Human Accountability and Free Will**. Despite God's persistent outreach, the people retain the choice to respond with obedience or stubborn rebellion. This tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility is central to the prophetic message, as seen in passages like [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Accomplishes Its Purpose"), where God's word goes forth to accomplish its purpose, even if it means exposing human recalcitrance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **children (Hebrew, _bên'_):** H1121, from בָּנָה; a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or condition, etc.). Here, "children of thy people" emphasizes the familial and national bond between Ezekiel and his audience, highlighting that he is sent to his own kin, part of the covenant people of Israel, even in their exiled state. This designation underscores the personal nature of God's continued engagement with His chosen nation.
* **hear (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** H8085, a primitive root; to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.). This word implies not just auditory perception but also understanding, heeding, and obeying. When God asks if they "will hear," He is questioning whether they will truly listen and respond obediently to His message, which is the desired outcome of divine revelation.
* **forbear (Hebrew, _châdal'_):** H2308, a primitive root; properly, to be flabby, i.e. (by implication) desist; (figuratively) be lacking or idle. In this context, "forbear" signifies a conscious refusal to listen or act, to desist from paying attention, or to remain idle in the face of God's word. It represents the active choice of rebellion or stubborn indifference, standing in stark contrast to the expected response of hearing and obeying.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And go, get thee to them of the captivity, unto the children of thy people,"**: This opening clause is a direct, imperative command from God, initiating Ezekiel's active ministry. It specifies his precise geographical and social destination: the Jewish exiles already in Babylon ("them of the captivity"). The phrase "unto the children of thy people" emphasizes the familial and national connection, highlighting that Ezekiel is being sent to his own kin, the covenant people of Israel, even in their displaced and humbled state. This personal connection underscores the gravity and intimacy of God's continued dealings with His chosen nation.
* **"and speak unto them, and tell them, Thus saith the Lord GOD;"**: This segment defines the core of Ezekiel's prophetic function. He is not to offer his own opinions or counsel, but to "speak" and "tell" a divinely authorized message. The emphatic phrase "Thus saith the Lord GOD" (Hebrew: _Koh Amar Adonai Yahweh_) is a hallmark of prophetic declaration, asserting that the words are not human in origin but direct, authoritative, and binding declarations from the Almighty, the sovereign Lord of the covenant. This phrase elevates the message beyond mere human discourse to divine revelation.
* **"whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear."**: This concluding clause highlights the critical element of human responsibility and free will. God's message is delivered, but the response is left to the people. "Hear" implies listening with understanding and obedience, while "forbear" signifies a refusal to listen or a stubborn resistance. This does not diminish God's sovereignty but rather underscores that His word will achieve its purpose, whether in bringing about repentance or in exposing and confirming the people's rebellion, thus leaving them without excuse. Ezekiel's success is defined by his faithfulness in delivering the message, not by the audience's reception.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 3:11 employs several powerful literary devices. The most prominent is **Divine Command**, conveyed through the imperative verbs "go," "get thee," "speak," and "tell." This forceful language underscores the non-negotiable nature of Ezekiel's mission and the absolute authority of the sender. The phrase "Thus saith the Lord GOD" functions as a **Prophetic Formula**, a recurring declaration that authenticates the message as originating directly from God, establishing its divine authority and binding nature. Finally, the concluding phrase "whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear" presents a stark **Antithesis** or **Dichotomy**. This contrasting pair of actions—to heed or to refuse—highlights the critical choice presented to the audience and emphasizes the theme of human accountability in response to divine revelation. It also serves as a form of **Foreshadowing**, anticipating the resistance Ezekiel will face throughout his ministry.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 3:11 profoundly articulates the nature of divine revelation and human responsibility within the covenant relationship. It establishes that God's word, once declared, carries its own inherent authority and purpose, irrespective of its reception. The prophet's role is one of faithful stewardship, delivering the message without dilution or compromise. This concept is foundational to understanding prophetic ministry and God's persistent engagement with His people, even when they are in rebellion or exile. It underscores God's commitment to provide truth and warning, ensuring that humanity is left without excuse regarding their response to His revealed will. The verse also implicitly speaks to God's patience and enduring love, as He continues to send messengers even to a "rebellious house."

* [Jeremiah 26:2](/jeremiah/26-2 "Jeremiah 26:2 - Jeremiah's Unwavering Message")
* [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Accomplishes Its Purpose")
* [Luke 10:16](/luke/10-16 "Luke 10:16 - He Who Hears You Hears Me")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 3:11 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today. It reminds us that our primary calling, like Ezekiel's, is to be faithful conduits of God's truth. Whether in sharing the Gospel, teaching in a small group, or living out our faith in daily interactions, our responsibility is to articulate God's word clearly and without compromise. The outcome—how others receive or reject the message—rests ultimately with them and with God's sovereign plan. This truth liberates us from the burden of measuring success by human response and instead focuses our efforts on obedience and faithfulness in proclamation. It encourages perseverance in the face of indifference or hostility, knowing that God's word never returns void and will accomplish His purposes, whether in conviction, salvation, or judgment. We are called to sow the seed diligently, trusting the Lord for the harvest and acknowledging the inherent human freedom to respond to divine revelation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you called to "speak" God's truth, and how faithfully are you doing so?**
* **How do you typically react when your message of faith is met with indifference or rejection? What can you learn from Ezekiel's commission in such moments?**
* **What does "hearing" God's word truly mean in your life, beyond mere intellectual understanding? How does it lead to obedience?**
* **How does the knowledge that God's word will accomplish its purpose, "whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear," impact your approach to sharing your faith?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear"?**

Answer: This phrase is profoundly significant because it highlights the twin principles of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. It means that Ezekiel's success as a prophet is not measured by the people's positive response, but by his faithfulness in delivering God's message. God's word, once spoken, achieves its purpose regardless of human reception. If the people "hear," it leads to repentance and life; if they "forbear" (refuse to listen or obey), it confirms their rebellion and leaves them without excuse, leading to judgment. This ensures that God's justice is always upheld and that His word is never wasted, even when rejected. It underscores that God values the act of proclamation as much as the act of reception, and that human free will in response to divine truth is a critical element in God's dealings with humanity, as seen in passages like [Deuteronomy 30:19](/deuteronomy/30-19 "Deuteronomy 30:19 - Choose Life").

**How does Ezekiel's commission relate to the responsibility of believers today?**

Answer: Ezekiel's commission serves as a powerful paradigm for believers today, particularly in the context of evangelism and discipleship. Just as Ezekiel was commanded to "speak unto them, and tell them, Thus saith the Lord GOD," so too are Christians called to proclaim the truth of God's word, specifically the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Our responsibility is to faithfully communicate the message, not to manipulate outcomes or guarantee conversions. The outcome of whether people "will hear, or whether they will forbear" rests with the Holy Spirit's work in their hearts and their own free will. This understanding frees us from the pressure of "results" and empowers us to be obedient messengers, trusting that God's word "shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please" ([Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Accomplishes Its Purpose")). It emphasizes our role as faithful stewards of the divine message, called to speak truth in love, regardless of the reception.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 3:11, with its emphasis on the prophet's unwavering commission to speak God's word regardless of human reception, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Just as Ezekiel was sent to a "rebellious house," Jesus, the Word made flesh, came to His own people, "and his own received him not" ([John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - He Came to His Own")). He faithfully proclaimed the "words of eternal life" ([John 6:68](/john/6-68 "John 6:68 - Words of Eternal Life")), speaking "Thus saith the Lord GOD" not merely as a messenger, but as God Himself incarnate. His parables often concluded with a call to "he who has ears to hear, let him hear" ([Matthew 13:9](/matthew/13-9 "Matthew 13:9 - He Who Has Ears to Hear")), echoing the "whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear" dynamic. Jesus understood that His mission was to bear witness to the truth, and that some would reject Him, preferring darkness to light ([John 3:19](/john/3-19 "John 3:19 - Men Loved Darkness Rather Than Light")). Yet, His faithfulness in delivering God's message, even to the point of death on the cross, ensured that God's redemptive purpose was accomplished, providing salvation for all who would believe ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")). Thus, Christ is the ultimate faithful Prophet, whose word, though rejected by many, ultimately achieved the greatest "hearing" through the establishment of His kingdom and the salvation of His elect.

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 2:7

And thou shalt speak my words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear: for they [are] most rebellious.

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.

Ezekiel 33:12

Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression: as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live for his [righteousness] in the day that he sinneth.

Ezekiel 33:17

Yet the children of thy people say, The way of the Lord is not equal: but as for them, their way is not equal.

Ezekiel 33:30

¶ Also, thou son of man, the children of thy people still are talking against thee by the walls and in the doors of the houses, and speak one to another, every one to his brother, saying, Come, I pray you, and hear what is the word that cometh forth from the LORD.

Ezekiel 33:2

Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman:

Ezekiel 2:5

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.