◄ Zechariah 11 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary Thirty Pieces of Silver Zechariah 11 is a poignant reminder of God's intention for leadership and the dire consequences of misguidance. It calls us to embrace the good shepherd (Christ), respect the unity and favor offered by God, and guard against the actions of the worthless shepherd. The fulfillment of these prophecies in the New Testament echoes God's unfailing word and urges us to heed His commands. Verses 1-3: Proclamation of Judgment These verses describe a prophecy of destruction upon Lebanon and Bashan's forests and Jordan's lush pastures, symbolizing the downfall of nations and rulers who have strayed from God. Verses 4-6: Responsibility to the Flock Zechariah is instructed by God to shepherd the flock doomed for slaughter. These verses convey God's displeasure with the current shepherds (leaders) of His people who have sold and betrayed the flock (people), ignoring their suffering. Verses 7-14: The Two Staffs - Favor and Union Zechariah carries out his shepherd role, armed with two staffs named Favor and Union, symbolizing God's grace and unity among the people. He dismisses the worthless shepherds and takes charge of the flock. However, he's rejected by the people, who consider his wage worth only thirty pieces of silver - a sum he scornfully throws to the potter in the Lord's house, predicting the price of betrayal that later becomes significant in the New Testament with Judas' betrayal of Jesus. Verses 15-17: The Worthless Shepherd In response to the rejection, God instructs Zechariah to take the gear of a foolish shepherd. This worthless shepherd would not care for the lost, seek the young, heal the injured, or feed the healthy, instead eating the meat of the choicest sheep. A woe is pronounced upon him, for he is the embodiment of bad leadership that leads the people astray. Zechariah 11 is a dramatic prophecy delivered by the prophet Zechariah. It details God's displeasure with the shepherds of His people, who have failed in their responsibilities, and forecasts the dire consequences of rejecting God's true Shepherd. Symbolic actions carried out by Zechariah embody the weight of these themes, showing the disastrous impact of turning away from divine guidance. Teaching Points The Destruction of the Shepherds Zechariah 11:1-3 describes the devastation that comes upon the land due to the failure of its leaders. The imagery of the cedars of Lebanon and oaks of Bashan being destroyed symbolizes the downfall of those in power. The Worthless Shepherds In verses 4-17, God commands Zechariah to act out the role of a shepherd, highlighting the contrast between good and bad shepherds. The worthless shepherd (v. 17) is a figure who neglects and exploits the flock, leading to their ruin. The Rejection of the True Shepherd Verses 12-13 depict the rejection of the true shepherd, symbolized by the thirty pieces of silver, a price that reflects contempt and betrayal. This foreshadows the betrayal of Christ, the ultimate Good Shepherd. God's Sovereignty and Judgment Throughout the chapter, God's sovereignty is evident as He allows the consequences of poor leadership to unfold. This serves as a reminder of His ultimate authority and the seriousness of spiritual leadership. Practical Applications Evaluate Leadership Reflect on the qualities of leaders in your life, whether in the church, community, or workplace. Are they shepherding with integrity and care, or are they neglecting their responsibilities? Embrace Christ as the Good Shepherd Recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of the true shepherd, who lays down His life for the sheep. Trust in His guidance and protection in your daily walk. Guard Against Betrayal Be mindful of the ways in which we might betray Christ through our actions or inactions. Seek to live faithfully and honorably in all aspects of life. Pray for Leaders Regularly pray for those in positions of authority, that they may lead with wisdom, compassion, and a heart aligned with God's will. People 1. Zechariah The prophet who is the author of the book. In this chapter, he acts out a symbolic role as a shepherd, representing God's relationship with Israel. 2. The Shepherds These are the leaders of Israel, often seen as corrupt or failing in their duties. The Hebrew term used here is "רֹעִים" (ro'im), which means shepherds or leaders. 3. The Flock Refers to the people of Israel, particularly those who are oppressed or neglected. The Hebrew word "צֹאן" (tso'n) is used, meaning flock or sheep. 4. The Three Shepherds These are symbolic figures representing leaders or groups that God removes in a single month. The specific identity of these shepherds is debated, but they symbolize failed leadership. 5. The Worthless Shepherd A figure representing a future leader who will neglect and harm the flock. This is a prophetic symbol of a leader who does not care for the people. 6. The Buyers and Sellers These are the people who exploit the flock, representing those who profit from the oppression of others. They are not named individually but are part of the narrative. Places 1. Lebanon Zechariah 11:1 mentions Lebanon: "Open your doors, O Lebanon, that the fire may consume your cedars!" Lebanon is known for its majestic cedar trees, which were highly valued in ancient times. The Hebrew word for Lebanon is "לְבָנוֹן" (Levanon), often associated with its lush forests and mountainous terrain. 2. Bashan In Zechariah 11:2, Bashan is referenced: "Wail, O cypress, for the cedar has fallen; the majestic trees are ruined! Wail, oaks of Bashan, for the dense forest has been cut down." Bashan was a region east of the Jordan River, known for its fertile land and strong oaks. The Hebrew term "הַבָּשָׁן" (HaBashan) reflects its historical significance as a place of strength and abundance. Events 1. The Destruction of Lebanon's Cedars Zechariah 11:1-2 describes a call for Lebanon to open its doors so that fire may devour its cedars. The passage uses vivid imagery to depict the destruction of the mighty trees, symbolizing judgment. The Hebrew word for "cedars" (אֲרָזִים, 'arazim) emphasizes strength and majesty, often associated with Lebanon. 2. Wailing of the Shepherds and Lions In Zechariah 11:3, the shepherds wail because their glory is ruined, and the young lions roar because the thickets of the Jordan are laid waste. This reflects the broader devastation affecting both human leaders (shepherds) and natural elements (lions). 3. The Command to Shepherd the Flock Doomed for Slaughter Zechariah 11:4-5 records God's command to Zechariah to shepherd a flock destined for slaughter. The passage highlights the betrayal and exploitation by those who buy and sell the sheep, showing a lack of compassion and justice. 4. The Two Staffs: Favor and Union In Zechariah 11:7, Zechariah takes two staffs, naming one "Favor" (נֹעַם, No'am) and the other "Union" (חֹבְלִים, Hoblim). These staffs symbolize God's covenant and unity with His people, which are later broken as a sign of judgment. 5. The Rejection of the Shepherd Zechariah 11:8-9 describes the rejection of the shepherd by the flock. The shepherd becomes impatient with them, and they detest him. This reflects the people's rejection of God's guidance and the resulting consequences. 6. Breaking of the Staff Favor In Zechariah 11:10, Zechariah breaks the staff called Favor, symbolizing the annulment of God's covenant with the nations. This act signifies the withdrawal of divine protection and blessing. 7. The Thirty Pieces of Silver Zechariah 11:12-13 recounts the payment of thirty pieces of silver for Zechariah's service, which he sarcastically calls a "handsome price." The Lord instructs him to throw it to the potter, symbolizing the worthlessness of the people's valuation of God's shepherd. 8. Breaking of the Staff Union Zechariah 11:14 describes the breaking of the second staff, Union, symbolizing the dissolution of the brotherhood between Judah and Israel. This act represents the division and disunity among God's people. 9. The Rise of a Worthless Shepherd In Zechariah 11:15-17, God instructs Zechariah to take up the equipment of a foolish shepherd, symbolizing the rise of a leader who will not care for the flock. This worthless shepherd neglects and exploits the sheep, leading to further judgment. Connections to Additional Scriptures John 10:11-15 Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd, contrasting His sacrificial love with the neglect of hired hands. Matthew 27:3-10 The fulfillment of the prophecy regarding the thirty pieces of silver in the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot. Ezekiel 34:1-10 A parallel passage that condemns the false shepherds of Israel and promises God's intervention as the true Shepherd. Prayer Points Pray for discernment to recognize and support godly leaders in your community and church. Ask God to strengthen and guide those in leadership positions, that they may shepherd with integrity and compassion. Seek forgiveness for any ways in which you may have failed to follow Christ faithfully, and ask for the grace to live in alignment with His teachings. Pray for the courage to stand against injustice and to advocate for those who are neglected or oppressed by poor leadership. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Zechariah 11 relate to the overall narrative of Zechariah's prophecy? 2. In what ways does the rejection of the Good Shepherd in Zechariah 11 foreshadow the events of the New Testament? 3. In our modern context, how can we identify and avoid the "worthless shepherd's" traits in leaders today? 4. How does Zechariah's reaction to his wages (thirty pieces of silver) highlight the underappreciation of divine favor and guidance? 5. How can we apply the lessons from the symbolic staffs, Favor and Union, in promoting unity and favor in our community today? 6. How can we use Zechariah 11 to evaluate our own actions as potential shepherds or leaders within our spheres of influence? 7. What does the chapter say about God's attitude towards those who exploit and neglect their responsibilities towards their "flock"? 8. How can we apply Zechariah’s prophecy to understand the consequences of rejecting God's guidance in our personal life? 9. How does the symbolism in Zechariah 11 deepen your understanding of the consequences of disobedience to God? 10. How can we interpret the prophecy of the destruction of Lebanon, Bashan, and Jordan in our contemporary global context? 11. Can we see a parallel between the worthlessness of the shepherd and any aspects of our society today? 12. How does the context of Zechariah 11 enhance your understanding of the Judas' betrayal in the New Testament? 13. In the face of "bad shepherds" or leaders, how should we act as followers of Christ? 14. What lessons about leadership and responsibility can we derive from Zechariah 11 that are applicable to our current societal or personal challenges? 15. How does Zechariah 11 challenge you in your spiritual journey? 16. How can we help others in our community to understand and avoid the pitfalls of the 'worthless shepherd'? 17. If you were in Zechariah's place, how would you feel when your worth was equated to thirty pieces of silver? 18. How can the church ensure that it functions under the guidance of the 'good shepherd' and not fall into the trappings of the 'worthless shepherd'? 19. What are the qualities that make a 'good shepherd' in our modern society? How can you cultivate these qualities in your own life? 20. As you reflect on Zechariah 11, how do you see its relevance and application to the challenges you're facing today? Topics 1. The Destruction of Lebanon and Bashan (Zechariah 11:1-3) This section describes a prophetic vision of destruction coming upon Lebanon and Bashan, symbolized by the opening of Lebanon's doors for fire to devour its cedars. The imagery of the cedar trees, which were highly valued, signifies the downfall of pride and strength. The Hebrew word "אֲרָזִים" (’ărāzîm) for "cedars" emphasizes the grandeur and majesty that will be brought low. 2. The Shepherds and Their Flock (Zechariah 11:4-6) God commands Zechariah to shepherd a flock doomed for slaughter, representing the people of Israel. The passage highlights the betrayal and neglect by the shepherds (leaders) who exploit the flock. The Hebrew term "רֹעִים" (rō‘îm) for "shepherds" underscores their role as caretakers who have failed in their duties. 3. The Two Staffs: Favor and Union (Zechariah 11:7-14) Zechariah takes two staffs, named Favor (Noam) and Union (Hoblim), symbolizing God's covenant and unity with His people. The breaking of these staffs signifies the annulment of God's favor and the disunity among the people. The Hebrew word "נֹעַם" (no‘am) for "Favor" and "חֹבְלִים" (ḥoblîm) for "Union" reflect the intended blessings and harmony that are lost. 4. The Worthless Shepherd (Zechariah 11:15-17) God instructs Zechariah to assume the role of a foolish shepherd, representing leaders who fail to care for the flock. This section prophesies the rise of a worthless shepherd who neglects and harms the sheep. The Hebrew term "אֱוִיל" (’ĕwîl) for "foolish" indicates a lack of wisdom and moral integrity in leadership. Themes 1. Judgment on Unfaithful Leaders Zechariah 11 begins with a pronouncement of judgment against the leaders of Israel, symbolized by the shepherds. The chapter uses imagery of fire and destruction, indicating God's displeasure with those who have failed in their leadership roles. The Hebrew word for "shepherd" (רֹעִים, ro'im) is used metaphorically to represent leaders who have neglected their duties. 2. The Worthless Shepherd The chapter introduces the concept of a "worthless shepherd" who abandons the flock. This theme highlights the consequences of poor leadership and the resulting suffering of the people. The Hebrew term for "worthless" (אֱלִיל, elil) suggests idolatry or futility, emphasizing the shepherd's failure to provide true guidance. 3. The Rejection of the True Shepherd Zechariah 11 also addresses the rejection of the true shepherd, a figure who represents God's appointed leader. The people’s refusal to accept this shepherd leads to their own downfall. The Hebrew root for "reject" (מָאַס, ma'as) conveys a strong sense of disdain and refusal. 4. The Breaking of the Covenants The breaking of the staffs named "Favor" and "Union" symbolizes the dissolution of God's covenant with His people. This theme underscores the seriousness of Israel's disobedience and the resulting loss of divine protection and unity. The Hebrew word for "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit) is central to understanding the gravity of this broken relationship. 5. The Price of Betrayal The chapter mentions the thirty pieces of silver, a price set for the shepherd's dismissal, which prophetically alludes to the betrayal of Jesus in the New Testament. This theme highlights the undervaluation of God's chosen leader and the betrayal by those who should have been faithful. The Hebrew term for "silver" (כֶּסֶף, keseph) is significant in its prophetic implications. 6. Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility Throughout Zechariah 11, there is a tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. God allows the consequences of Israel's choices to unfold, demonstrating His control over history while holding the people accountable for their actions. The Hebrew concept of "sovereignty" (מֶלֶךְ, melek) is implicit in the portrayal of God's ultimate authority over the events described. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions