Ezekiel 34:6

My flock went astray on all the mountains and every high hill. They were scattered over the face of all the earth, with no one to search for them or seek them out.'

Study Bible

My flock
The phrase "My flock" emphasizes the personal ownership and deep care that God has for His people. In Hebrew, the word for "flock" is "צֹאן" (tso'n), which is often used metaphorically in the Old Testament to describe the people of Israel. This imagery of a shepherd and his flock is prevalent throughout Scripture, highlighting God's role as a protector and provider. Historically, shepherding was a common occupation in ancient Israel, and the relationship between a shepherd and his sheep was one of guidance, provision, and protection. This phrase underscores God's intimate relationship with His people, portraying them as cherished and valued.

went astray
The term "went astray" is derived from the Hebrew word "תָּעָה" (ta'ah), meaning to wander or err. This conveys the idea of deviation from the intended path, symbolizing Israel's spiritual and moral departure from God's commandments. In the historical context, this reflects the period of Israel's disobedience and idolatry, leading to their exile. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of humanity's tendency to stray from God's will, necessitating divine intervention and guidance.

on all the mountains
"On all the mountains" suggests a widespread dispersion and a search for sustenance or safety. Mountains in biblical times were often seen as places of refuge but also of pagan worship. This phrase indicates that the flock, in their lost state, sought refuge and meaning in places that could not provide true security or spiritual nourishment. It reflects the historical reality of Israel's alliances and idolatries with surrounding nations, which ultimately led them further from God.

and on every high hill
Similar to mountains, "every high hill" in ancient Israel was often associated with altars and places of idol worship. The phrase highlights the extent of Israel's spiritual adultery, as they sought after false gods and practices. In a broader sense, it represents the human inclination to seek fulfillment in worldly or false spiritual pursuits rather than in God.

My flock was scattered
The repetition of "My flock" emphasizes God's continued claim over His people despite their disobedience. "Was scattered" indicates a passive state, suggesting that the flock did not intentionally disperse but were driven away by circumstances or neglect. Historically, this scattering can be seen in the context of the Babylonian exile, where the Israelites were forcibly removed from their land. Spiritually, it speaks to the consequences of sin and the resulting separation from God.

over the whole face of the earth
This phrase underscores the totality and severity of the dispersion. "The whole face of the earth" suggests a complete and utter scattering, leaving no part of the flock untouched. It reflects the historical reality of the Jewish diaspora, as well as the spiritual desolation experienced by those separated from God. This serves as a powerful reminder of the far-reaching consequences of turning away from divine guidance.

with no one to search for them or seek them out
The absence of a shepherd to "search for them or seek them out" highlights the failure of Israel's leaders to care for and guide the people. In the Hebrew context, the words "search" and "seek" imply an active and intentional effort to restore the lost. This neglect by the shepherds (leaders) of Israel is a central theme in Ezekiel 34, where God condemns the leaders for their self-interest and lack of concern for the people. This phrase also foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, who actively seeks and saves the lost, fulfilling God's promise to care for His scattered flock.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages, often through vivid imagery and symbolic actions.

2. The Flock
Represents the people of Israel, God's chosen people, who have gone astray due to poor leadership and their own disobedience.

3. Mountains and High Hills
Symbolic of places of idolatry and false worship. In ancient Israel, these were often sites where people engaged in pagan practices.

4. Scattering
Refers to the dispersion of the Israelites among the nations due to their unfaithfulness and the failure of their leaders to guide them properly.

5. Shepherds
Though not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of Ezekiel 34 addresses the leaders of Israel, who failed in their duty to care for and guide the people.

Teaching Points

The Responsibility of Leadership
Leaders are accountable for the spiritual well-being of those they lead. Just as the shepherds of Israel were judged for their neglect, so too are leaders today called to care for their flock with diligence and love.

The Danger of Idolatry
The mountains and high hills symbolize places of idolatry. Believers must guard against allowing anything to take the place of God in their lives, recognizing the subtle ways idolatry can manifest.

God's Relentless Pursuit
Despite the scattering, God’s heart is to seek and save the lost. Believers are called to join in this mission, reaching out to those who have strayed from the faith.

The Need for Community
Isolation leads to vulnerability. Christians are encouraged to remain connected to the body of Christ, where they can find support, accountability, and growth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of sheep and shepherds in Ezekiel 34:6 help us understand the relationship between God and His people?

2. In what ways can modern-day believers ensure they are not "scattered" or led astray by false teachings or distractions?

3. How can church leaders today learn from the failures of the shepherds in Ezekiel 34 to better care for their congregations?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt "scattered" or distant from God. What steps did you take, or can you take, to return to the fold?

5. How does the role of Jesus as the Good Shepherd in John 10 provide comfort and assurance in your personal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 23
Contrasts the failed shepherds of Israel with the Lord as the perfect Shepherd who provides, guides, and protects His flock.

John 10
Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd, who knows His sheep and lays down His life for them, fulfilling the role that the leaders of Israel failed to accomplish.

Isaiah 53:6
Speaks of all people going astray like sheep, emphasizing the universal need for a shepherd to guide and save.

Matthew 9:36
Jesus' compassion for the crowds, seeing them as sheep without a shepherd, highlights His role as the true Shepherd who seeks the lost.