Definition: And I will make thy tongue cleave to the roof of thy mouth, that thou shalt be dumb, and shalt not be to them a reprover: for they [are] a rebellious house.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 3:26. It’s a pretty serious message about a people’s behavior. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse describes a situation where people are deliberately refusing to listen or obey God’s instructions. It paints them as being “rebellious” – meaning they’re actively defying what is right and good. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And I will make thy tongue cleave to the roof of thy mouth…” - This is a vivid image. Imagine your tongue, like a roof, being forced to stick shut. It's a strong, uncomfortable feeling. “…that thou shalt be dumb, and shalt not be to them a reprover…” – This means they’re refusing to speak or respond to God’s commands. They aren’t listening to him; they’re deliberately ignoring his guidance. It’s like they are intentionally shutting down communication with him. “…for they [are] a rebellious house.” - This is the crucial part. “Rebellious house” refers to a family or group of people who are actively defying God's rule and authority. Think of it as a household that’s refusing to follow the rules set by its leader. What does this mean in practical terms? Historically, this verse has been interpreted as a warning about a specific group of people – the Israelites – who were consistently disobeying God’s laws and commands. It suggests they were living a life of separation from God and refusing to follow his will. It speaks to a time when obedience was paramount - a time where ignoring God's guidance could have serious consequences. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of disobedience, but it’s also a reminder of the importance of listening to God and following his teachings. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you an example of how this might have been used historically? Or would you like me to explore another Bible passage?