The LORD chooses Ezekiel

1The LORD2.1 The LORD: Hebrew “The voice”. said, “Ezekiel, son of man,2.1 Ezekiel, son of man: The Hebrew text has “Son of man”, which is often used in this book when the LORD speaks directly to Ezekiel. It means that Ezekiel is a mere human, yet he is the one the LORD has chosen to be his prophet who speaks for him to the people of Israel. I want you to stand up and listen.” 2After he said this, his Spirit took control of me and lifted me to my feet. Then the LORD said:

3Ezekiel, I am sending you to the people of Israel. They are just like their ancestors who rebelled against me and refused to stop. 4They are stubborn and hard-headed. But I, the LORD God, have chosen you to tell them what I say. 5Those rebels may not even listen, but at least they will know that a prophet has come to them.

6Don't be afraid of them or of anything they say. You may think you're in the middle of thorn bushes or scorpions. But be brave 7and preach my message to them, whether they choose to listen or not. 8Ezekiel, don't rebel against me, as they have done. Instead, listen to everything I tell you.

And now, Ezekiel, open your mouth and eat what I am going to give you.

9Just then, I saw a hand stretched out towards me. And in it was a scroll.2.9 scroll: A roll of paper or special leather used for writing on.2.9,10: Rev 5.1. 10The hand opened the scroll, and both sides of it were filled with words of sadness, mourning, and grief.