1He said to me, "Son of man, stand on your feet, and I will speak with you."
2As he spoke to me, the Spirit entered me and set me on my feet, and I heard the one who was speaking to me.
3He said to me, "Son of man, I am sending you to the people of Israel, to a rebellious nation who have rebelled against me. Both they and their ancestors have sinned against me, right up to this very day.
4These people are stubborn and hard-hearted. I am sending you to them, and you must tell them, 'This is what the Lord Yahweh says.'"
5Whether they listen or refuse to listen (for they are a rebellious people), they will at least know that a prophet has been among them.
6But you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or their words, even though you are among thorns and briars and live among scorpions. Do not be afraid of their words or be dismayed by their looks, even though they are a rebellious people.
7You must speak my words to them, whether they listen or refuse to listen, for they are very rebellious.
8But you, son of man, listen to what I tell you. Don't be rebellious like that rebellious group. Open your mouth and eat what I give you.
9When I looked, I saw a hand reaching out to me. In the hand was a scroll, like a book.
10He unrolled it in front of me. It had writing on both the inside and the outside. On it were written messages of sadness, mourning, and sorrow.