Ezekiel 34
Read Ezekiel 34
Helpful Background Information:
Ezekiel was a prophet and priest who lived around the time of the Babylonian exile. His message was addressed to both exiles and people left in the homeland with a mix of warnings and judgments. Later on in the book, Ezekiel points ahead to the destruction of Jerusalem and its temple. These events came (in large part) as a consequence of Israel’s corrupted leadership. For the people, this destruction was the greatest tragedy of all, and it raised a sobering question: Had God finally given up on His people?
That brings us to Ezekiel 34, where God gives the people a glimpse of hope. He promises Israel that He would raise up a new David-like figure—a shepherd-king who would take the place of the selfish shepherds who neglected their role in days past (vv.1-6). If Israel’s appointed leaders were not willing to shepherd the people under their care, then God Himself would hold them accountable (v.10). More than that, the LORD promised that He would personally take it upon Himself to shepherd the people—rescuing them from danger, regathering those who had been scattered, and leading them to green pastures (vv.11-16).
In John 10, Jesus speaks of Himself as a shepherd. Not just any shepherd, however, but the very shepherd who was promised way back in Ezekiel 34. In the Christmas event, we see God entering the story as a baby—One who would grow and eventually become the Good Shepherd that humanity has always needed. Jesus is the shepherd who rescues and regathers His people, laying down His own life to save theirs.
Reflection Questions:
According to the end of Ezekiel 34:8, what was the primary problem God identified with the corrupt shepherds of that day?
Reread verses 11-16 out loud. A lot of vivid imagery is used in this section. Take a few minutes to close your eyes and visualize the scenes being described as you read back through these verses. Which image stands out to you most? Why?
At the end of verse 16, God promises to “shepherd the flock with justice.” In your own words, describe how Jesus leads God’s people with justice in mind.