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.
5 And whether they listen or fail to listen-for they are a rebellious people-they will know that a prophet has been among them.
5 And whether they hear or refuse to hear (for they are a rebellious house) they will know that a prophet has been among them.
5 They are a defiant bunch. Whether or not they listen, at least they'll know that a prophet's been here.
5 As for them, whether they hear or whether they refuse--for they are a rebellious house--yet they will know that a prophet has been among them.
5 And whether they listen or refuse to listen-for remember, they are rebels-at least they will know they have had a prophet among them.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ezekiel 2:5
Commentary on Ezekiel 2:1-5
(Read Ezekiel 2:1-5)
Lest Ezekiel should be lifted up with the abundance of the revelations, he is put in mind that still he is a son of man, a weak, mortal creature. As Christ usually called himself the Son of man, it was also an honourable distinction. Ezekiel's posture showed reverence, but his standing up would be a posture of greater readiness and fitness for business. God will speak to us, when we stand ready to do what he commands us. As Ezekiel had not strength of his own, the Spirit entered into him. God is graciously pleased to work in us whatever he requires of us. The Holy Spirit sets us upon our feet, by inclining our wills to our duty. Thus, when the Lord calls upon the sinner to awake, and attend to the concerns of his soul, the Spirit of life and grace comes with the call. Ezekiel is sent with a message to the children of Israel. Many might treat his message with contempt, yet they should know by the event that a prophet had been sent to them. God will be glorified, and his word made honourable, whether it be a savour of life unto life, or of death unto death.