Jeremiah 25:35

Flight will evade the shepherds, and escape will elude the leaders of the flock.

Study Bible

Flight will perish
The phrase "flight will perish" conveys a sense of inevitable doom and the futility of escape. In the Hebrew text, the word for "flight" is "נָס" (nas), which means to flee or escape. This word is often used in contexts where there is a pursuit or a threat. The imagery here is powerful, suggesting that even the natural instinct to flee from danger will be rendered impossible. Historically, this reflects the situation of the leaders of Judah who, despite their attempts to avoid the consequences of their actions, could not escape the judgment that God had decreed through the prophet Jeremiah. This serves as a sobering reminder of the inescapability of divine justice.

from the shepherds
The term "shepherds" in this context is metaphorical, referring to the leaders and rulers of the people. In ancient Near Eastern culture, shepherds were often used as symbols for kings and leaders, responsible for the welfare and guidance of their people. The Hebrew word "רֹעִים" (ro'im) is used here, emphasizing the role of these leaders as caretakers who have failed in their duties. This failure is not just a political or social one, but a spiritual failure to lead the people in accordance with God's laws and commandments. The shepherds' inability to find "flight" underscores their accountability before God.

and escape will fail
The word "escape" in Hebrew is "מִלְטָה" (miltah), which implies a way out or deliverance. The phrase "will fail" indicates that any hope of deliverance or rescue is futile. This is a direct consequence of the leaders' disobedience and the people's idolatry, as repeatedly warned by Jeremiah. The historical context here is the impending Babylonian exile, a period of great suffering and displacement for the people of Judah. Theologically, this serves as a warning that turning away from God leads to a loss of His protection and the collapse of any human-devised plans for salvation.

from the leaders of the flock
The "leaders of the flock" again uses pastoral imagery to describe those in positions of authority. The Hebrew word "אַדִּירֵי" (addirei) is used for "leaders," which can also mean nobles or mighty ones. This highlights the responsibility and power these individuals held, and yet, despite their status, they are unable to avert the coming disaster. The "flock" refers to the people of Judah, who are depicted as sheep in need of guidance and protection. The failure of their leaders to provide this results in the flock being left vulnerable to the consequences of their collective sin. This serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of godly leadership and the dire consequences when leaders fail to uphold God's standards.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and judgment to the people of Judah and the surrounding nations. His ministry spanned over 40 years during a tumultuous period in Israel's history.

2. Shepherds
In this context, the shepherds symbolize the leaders of Judah, including kings, priests, and prophets, who were responsible for guiding the people spiritually and politically.

3. Leaders of the Flock
This phrase refers to the same group as the shepherds, emphasizing their role in leading and protecting the people, who are metaphorically described as the flock.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was facing impending judgment and exile due to its persistent disobedience and idolatry.

5. Babylonian Exile
The event that Jeremiah prophesied, where the Babylonians would conquer Judah, leading to the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, and the captivity of its people.

Teaching Points

Accountability of Leaders
Leaders are accountable to God for their actions and the spiritual well-being of those they lead. The failure of the shepherds in Jeremiah's time serves as a warning to all leaders today.

Consequences of Disobedience
Persistent disobedience and failure to heed God's warnings lead to judgment. This is a call for repentance and turning back to God.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human failure, God's plans and purposes will prevail. He remains in control and will ultimately shepherd His people Himself.

Hope in Christ
While human leaders may fail, Jesus, the Good Shepherd, provides perfect guidance and care for His flock.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the shepherds in Jeremiah 25:35 reflect the responsibilities of leaders in the church today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are not like the shepherds who failed their flock? Consider practical steps for accountability and spiritual growth.

3. How does the theme of failed leadership in Jeremiah connect with Jesus' teachings in John 10 about the Good Shepherd?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of disobedience. How did that experience shape your understanding of God's justice and mercy?

5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's sovereignty, especially when human leaders fail us? Consider other scriptures that reinforce this truth.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 34
This chapter also addresses the failure of Israel's shepherds (leaders) and God's promise to be the true shepherd for His people.

John 10
Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd, contrasting His leadership with that of the failed shepherds of Israel.

Zechariah 11
This passage speaks of the breaking of the covenant and the failure of the shepherds, similar to the themes in Jeremiah.