Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD: ThereforeThis word serves as a pivotal transition, indicating a conclusion or consequence based on prior statements. In the context of Ezekiel 34, God has been addressing the failures of Israel's leaders, the shepherds, who have neglected their duties. The Hebrew word used here is "לָכֵן" (lakhen), which often introduces divine judgment or a significant declaration. It underscores the seriousness of the message that follows, emphasizing that what God is about to say is a direct result of the shepherds' actions. You shepherds Hear The word of the LORD Persons / Places / Events 1. EzekielA prophet of God during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites. 2. Shepherds Symbolic of the leaders of Israel, including kings, priests, and prophets, who were responsible for guiding and caring for the people. 3. The LORD The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is addressing the shepherds through Ezekiel. 4. Israel The nation of God's chosen people, who are suffering due to the negligence of their leaders. 5. Babylonian Exile The period during which the Israelites were exiled from their homeland, a backdrop to Ezekiel's prophecies. Teaching Points Accountability of LeadersLeaders are accountable to God for the care and guidance of those they lead. Neglect and self-interest are condemned. God's Care for His People Despite human failure, God remains the ultimate Shepherd, committed to the well-being of His people. Call to Faithful Leadership Christian leaders today are called to emulate the Good Shepherd, serving with integrity and love. Judgment and Restoration God's judgment on unfaithful leaders is coupled with His promise to restore and care for His people. Personal Responsibility Every believer has a role in caring for others, reflecting God's love and compassion in their communities. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the role of a shepherd in ancient Israel relate to the responsibilities of leaders in the church today?2. In what ways can we ensure that we are following the example of the Good Shepherd in our personal and communal lives? 3. How does understanding God's role as the ultimate Shepherd provide comfort and assurance in times of leadership failure? 4. What practical steps can we take to hold our leaders accountable while also supporting them in their roles? 5. How can we apply the principles of faithful leadership in our own spheres of influence, whether in family, work, or community settings? Connections to Other Scriptures Jeremiah 23:1-4This passage also addresses the failure of Israel's leaders, promising that God Himself will gather His flock and appoint faithful shepherds. John 10:11-16 Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd, contrasting His care with the neglect of false shepherds. 1 Peter 5:2-4 Peter exhorts church leaders to shepherd God's flock willingly and eagerly, not for personal gain, reflecting the responsibilities highlighted in Ezekiel. Psalm 23 David's psalm portrays God as the ultimate Shepherd, providing and caring for His people, a role the leaders failed to fulfill. Zechariah 11:17 A warning against worthless shepherds, emphasizing the consequences of neglecting God's flock.
People David, EzekielPlaces JerusalemTopics Cause, Ear, Flock, Keepers, O, ShepherdsDictionary of Bible Themes Ezekiel 34:1-10 7786 shepherd, king and leader Library 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 34:7 NIVEzekiel 34:7 NLT Ezekiel 34:7 ESV Ezekiel 34:7 NASB Ezekiel 34:7 KJV Ezekiel 34:7 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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