This is what the Lord GOD says to you, My flock: 'I will judge between one sheep and another, between the rams and the goats. As for you, My flockThis phrase emphasizes the personal relationship between God and His people. The term "flock" is a metaphor for the people of Israel, indicating care, guidance, and protection. In Hebrew, "flock" (צֹאן, tson) often refers to a group under the care of a shepherd, symbolizing God's role as a divine shepherd. This imagery is consistent throughout Scripture, highlighting God's nurturing and protective nature. this is what the Lord GOD says Behold I will judge between one sheep and another and between rams and goats Persons / Places / Events 1. The Lord GODThe sovereign ruler and judge, emphasizing His authority and justice. 2. Sheep Symbolic of God's people, often representing those who are faithful and obedient. 3. Rams Typically represent leaders or those in positions of authority within the flock. 4. Goats Often symbolize those who are rebellious or disobedient among God's people. 5. Judgment The event where God distinguishes between the faithful and the unfaithful within His people. Teaching Points God's Sovereign JudgmentGod is the ultimate judge who discerns the hearts and actions of His people. We must live with the awareness that our actions and attitudes are subject to His righteous judgment. Distinction Among Believers Not all who are part of the community of believers are faithful. We must examine our lives to ensure we are living in obedience and faithfulness to God. Role of Leaders Leaders within the church are held to a higher standard. They must shepherd the flock with integrity and care, avoiding the pitfalls of pride and neglect. Call to Self-Examination Believers are called to self-examination, ensuring that their lives reflect the character and commands of Christ, avoiding the traits of the "goats." Living Out Our Faith Our faith must be evident in our actions, particularly in how we treat others. We are called to serve and love, reflecting the heart of the Good Shepherd. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the imagery of sheep, rams, and goats help us understand the nature of God's judgment?2. In what ways can we ensure that we are living as faithful "sheep" under God's care? 3. How can church leaders today apply the lessons from Ezekiel 34:17 to their roles and responsibilities? 4. What practical steps can we take to examine our lives and ensure we are not living as "goats"? 5. How does the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 25:31-46 expand on the message of Ezekiel 34:17, and how can we apply this to our daily lives? Connections to Other Scriptures Matthew 25:31-46Jesus speaks of the final judgment, separating the sheep from the goats, highlighting the criteria of service and love. Psalm 23 The Lord as the Shepherd, guiding and caring for His sheep, contrasting with the judgment of those who stray. John 10:11-16 Jesus as the Good Shepherd, who knows His sheep and lays down His life for them, emphasizing the relationship between the shepherd and the sheep. Zechariah 10:3 God's anger against the shepherds (leaders) who fail to care for the flock, paralleling the judgment against rams. Isaiah 40:11 God as a gentle shepherd, gathering and tending to His flock, contrasting with the judgment of the unfaithful.
People David, EzekielPlaces JerusalemTopics Behold, Cattle, Flock, Goats, He-goats, He-sheep, Judge, Judging, Male, O, Rams, Says, Sheep, Sovereign, Thus, TrulyDictionary of Bible Themes Ezekiel 34:17Library The Church of ChristThis, then, is the meaning of the text; that God would make Jerusalem and the places round about his hill a blessing. I shall not, however, use it so this morning, but I shall use it in a more confined sense--or, perhaps, in a more enlarged sense--as it applies to the church of Jesus Christ, and to this particular church with which you and I stand connected. "I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers … Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 1: 1855 That None Should Enter on a Place of Government who Practise not in Life what they have Learnt by Study. Discourse on the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd' and his one Flock' - Last Discourse at the Feast of Tabernacles. The Everlasting Covenant of the Spirit How to Make Use of Christ as the Life when the Soul is Dead as to Duty. The Shepherd of Our Souls. Covenanting Predicted in Prophecy. The Extent of Messiah's Spiritual Kingdom The Eighth Commandment That the Ruler Should Be, through Humility, a Companion of Good Livers, But, through the Zeal of Righteousness, Rigid against the vices of Evildoers. Covenanting Provided for in the Everlasting Covenant. Jesus Makes his First Disciples. Second Great Group of Parables. Ezekiel Links Ezekiel 34:17 NIVEzekiel 34:17 NLT Ezekiel 34:17 ESV Ezekiel 34:17 NASB Ezekiel 34:17 KJV Ezekiel 34:17 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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