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Ezekiel 34

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‹ Chapter 33 Ezekiel — All Chapters Chapter 35 ›

1 Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2 “Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel. Prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Woe to the shepherds of Israel, who only feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed their flock? 3 You eat the fat, wear the wool, and butcher the fattened sheep, but you do not feed the flock. 4 You have not strengthened the weak, healed the sick, bound up the injured, brought back the strays, or searched for the lost. Instead, you have ruled them with violence and cruelty. 5 They were scattered for lack of a shepherd, and when they were scattered they became food for all the wild beasts. 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.’ 7 Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD: 8 ‘As surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, because My flock lacks a shepherd and has become prey and food for every wild beast, and because My shepherds did not search for My flock but fed themselves instead, 9 therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD!’ 10 This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I am against the shepherds, and I will demand from them My flock and remove them from tending the flock, so that they can no longer feed themselves. For I will deliver My flock from their mouths, and it will no longer be food for them.’ 11 For this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I Myself will search for My flock and seek them out. 12 As a shepherd looks for his scattered sheep when he is among the flock, so I will look for My flock. I will rescue them from all the places to which they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. 13 I will bring them out from the peoples, gather them from the countries, and bring them into their own land. I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, in the ravines, and in all the settlements of the land. 14 I will feed them in good pasture, and the lofty mountains of Israel will be their grazing land. There they will lie down in a good grazing land; they will feed in rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. 15 I will tend My flock and make them lie down, declares the Lord GOD. 16 I will seek the lost, bring back the strays, bind up the broken, and strengthen the weak; but the sleek and strong I will destroy. I will shepherd them with justice.’ 17 This is what the Lord GOD says to you, My flock: ‘I will judge between one sheep and another, between the rams and the goats. 18 Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture? Must you also trample the rest of the pasture with your feet? Is it not enough for you to drink the clear waters? Must you also muddy the rest with your feet? 19 Why must My flock feed on what your feet have trampled, and drink what your feet have muddied?’ 20 Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says to them: ‘Behold, I Myself will judge between the fat sheep and the lean sheep. 21 Since you shove with flank and shoulder, butting all the weak ones with your horns until you have scattered them abroad, 22 I will save My flock, and they will no longer be prey. I will judge between one sheep and another. 23 I will appoint over them one shepherd, My servant David, and he will feed them. He will feed them and be their shepherd. 24 I, the LORD, will be their God, and My servant David will be a prince among them. I, the LORD, have spoken. 25 I will make with them a covenant of peace and rid the land of wild animals, so that they may dwell securely in the wilderness and sleep in the forest. 26 I will make them and the places around My hill a blessing. I will send down showers in season—showers of blessing. 27 The trees of the field will give their fruit, and the land will yield its produce; My flock will be secure in their land. Then they will know that I am the LORD, when I have broken the bars of their yoke and delivered them from the hands that enslaved them. 28 They will no longer be prey for the nations, and the beasts of the earth will not consume them. They will dwell securely, and no one will frighten them. 29 And I will raise up for them a garden of renown, and they will no longer be victims of famine in the land or bear the scorn of the nations. 30 Then they will know that I, the LORD their God, am with them, and that they, the house of Israel, are My people,’ declares the Lord GOD. 31 ‘You are My flock, the sheep of My pasture, My people, and I am your God,’ declares the Lord GOD."

‹ Chapter 33 Ezekiel — All Chapters Chapter 35 ›

Study Notes — Ezekiel 34

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

Ezekiel 34 begins with a condemnation of the shepherds of Israel, who have failed to care for the flock, instead exploiting and neglecting them (Ezekiel 34:1-6). God declares that He will judge these unfaithful shepherds and assume the role of shepherd Himself, seeking out and rescuing His scattered sheep (Ezekiel 34:7-16). The chapter also looks forward to the coming of a messianic shepherd, who will feed and care for God's people (Ezekiel 34:23-24). The prophet concludes by emphasizing God's commitment to His people, promising to make a covenant of peace with them and to bless them abundantly (Ezekiel 34:25-31).

Context for the Chapter

Ezekiel 34 is part of a larger section of the book that emphasizes God's judgment on Israel's leaders and His promise to restore His people. The chapter follows Ezekiel's condemnation of Israel's prophets and priests in Ezekiel 33, and precedes his vision of the restored temple in Ezekiel 40-48. In the larger biblical narrative, Ezekiel 34 is part of the prophetic literature that foretells the coming of a messianic shepherd who will care for God's people.

Heart Application

This chapter reminds us of the importance of caring for one another, particularly those in positions of leadership. It emphasizes God's concern for His people and His desire to see them cared for and protected. As we reflect on this chapter, we are called to examine our own hearts and actions, seeking to be faithful shepherds of those under our charge.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Ezekiel 34 is about God's promise to care for His people, who have been neglected by their leaders. He promises to send a good shepherd, who will feed and protect them. As seen in Ezekiel 34:11, God will personally search for His sheep and seek them out. This chapter reminds us of the importance of caring for one another and seeking God's guidance and protection.

Voices from the Church

“The Lord Jesus Christ is the one shepherd, who has undertaken to feed and guide His people, and He will do it, for He is the good shepherd, who lays down His life for the sheep.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The prophet here teaches that God will not only feed His people, but also defend them against all dangers, and preserve them in safety, as a shepherd preserves his flock.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. Introduction: Condemnation of Unfaithful Shepherds (Ezekiel 34:1-6) — The chapter begins with a condemnation of Israel's leaders, who have exploited and neglected God's people.
  2. God's Promise to Care for His People (Ezekiel 34:7-16) — God declares that He will personally care for His people, seeking out and rescuing His scattered sheep.
  3. The Coming of a Messianic Shepherd (Ezekiel 34:17-24) — The chapter foretells the coming of a messianic shepherd, who will feed and care for God's people.
  4. God's Covenant of Peace (Ezekiel 34:25-31) — God promises to make a covenant of peace with His people, blessing them abundantly and protecting them from harm.
  5. Conclusion: God's Faithfulness to His People — The chapter concludes with an emphasis on God's faithfulness to His people, highlighting His commitment to care for and protect them.

Core Doctrines

The Doctrine of God's Providence
This chapter teaches that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, seeking to care for and protect them. As seen in Ezekiel 34:11, God will personally search for His sheep and seek them out.
The Importance of Faithful Leadership
The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithful leadership, warning of the consequences of neglecting or exploiting God's people.
The Promise of a Messiah
The messianic shepherd foretold in Ezekiel 34:23-24 is a significant doctrine, highlighting God's plan to send a savior who will care for and lead His people.
The Covenant of Peace
The chapter teaches that God will make a covenant of peace with His people, blessing them abundantly and protecting them from harm.

Lessons from Ezekiel 34

  1. The Importance of Caring for One Another — This chapter reminds us of the importance of caring for one another, particularly those in positions of leadership.
  2. God's Faithfulness to His People — The chapter emphasizes God's faithfulness to His people, highlighting His commitment to care for and protect them.
  3. The Consequences of Unfaithful Leadership — The chapter warns of the consequences of unfaithful leadership, emphasizing the importance of accountability and faithfulness.
  4. The Promise of a Messiah — The messianic shepherd foretold in Ezekiel 34:23-24 is a significant lesson, highlighting God's plan to send a savior who will care for and lead His people.
  5. The Covenant of Peace — The chapter teaches that God will make a covenant of peace with His people, blessing them abundantly and protecting them from harm.

Themes from Ezekiel 34

  1. God's Concern for His People — Throughout the chapter, God's concern for His people is evident, highlighting His desire to care for and protect them.
  2. The Importance of Faithful Leadership — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithful leadership, warning of the consequences of neglecting or exploiting God's people.
  3. The Promise of a Messiah — The messianic shepherd foretold in Ezekiel 34:23-24 is a significant theme, highlighting God's plan to send a savior who will care for and lead His people.
  4. The Covenant of Peace — The chapter teaches that God will make a covenant of peace with His people, blessing them abundantly and protecting them from harm.
  5. God's Faithfulness to His People — The chapter emphasizes God's faithfulness to His people, highlighting His commitment to care for and protect them.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What does this chapter teach about God's concern for His people?
  2. How does the chapter emphasize the importance of faithful leadership?
  3. What does the messianic shepherd foretold in Ezekiel 34:23-24 represent?
  4. What is the significance of God's covenant of peace in Ezekiel 34:25-31?
  5. How can we apply the principles of this chapter to our own lives and relationships?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Introduction: Condemnation of Unfaithful Shepherds (Ezekiel 34:1-6)

Ezekiel 34:1 The prophet is instructed to prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, condemning their selfish and neglectful behavior.
Ezekiel 34:2 The shepherds are accused of feeding themselves, rather than feeding the flock, and of failing to care for the weak and scattered sheep.

2. God's Promise to Care for His People (Ezekiel 34:7-16)

Ezekiel 34:7 God declares that He will hold the shepherds accountable for their actions, and that He will assume the role of shepherd Himself.
Ezekiel 34:11 God promises to personally search for His sheep and seek them out, highlighting His concern for His people.

3. The Coming of a Messianic Shepherd (Ezekiel 34:17-24)

Ezekiel 34:17 God will judge between the fat and lean sheep, emphasizing the importance of fairness and justice.
Ezekiel 34:23 God will set up one shepherd over them, who will feed them and care for them, highlighting the promise of a messianic shepherd.

4. God's Covenant of Peace (Ezekiel 34:25-31)

Ezekiel 34:25 God will make a covenant of peace with His people, blessing them abundantly and protecting them from harm.
Ezekiel 34:26 The people will be blessed with abundant food and water, and will live in safety and security.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of Ezekiel 34?

The main theme of Ezekiel 34 is God's concern for His people and His promise to care for them, particularly in the face of unfaithful leadership. As seen in Ezekiel 34:11, God will personally search for His sheep and seek them out.

Who is the messianic shepherd foretold in Ezekiel 34:23-24?

The messianic shepherd foretold in Ezekiel 34:23-24 is Jesus Christ, who is the good shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep. This is seen in John 10:11, where Jesus says, 'I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.'

What is the significance of God's covenant of peace in Ezekiel 34:25-31?

The covenant of peace in Ezekiel 34:25-31 emphasizes God's commitment to bless and protect His people, highlighting His faithfulness and love for them. As seen in Ezekiel 34:25, God will make a covenant of peace with His people, and they will live in safety and security.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Ezekiel 34:11 → John 10:11 The concept of God as a shepherd is seen in both Ezekiel 34:11 and John 10:11, where Jesus is described as the good shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep.
2 Ezekiel 34:23 → John 10:14 The messianic shepherd foretold in Ezekiel 34:23 is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the good shepherd who knows His sheep and lays down His life for them.
3 Ezekiel 34:25 → Leviticus 26:6 The covenant of peace in Ezekiel 34:25 is reminiscent of the covenant of peace in Leviticus 26:6, where God promises to give His people peace and security if they follow His commandments.
4 Ezekiel 34:26 → Isaiah 65:21-22 The blessing of abundant food and water in Ezekiel 34:26 is similar to the blessing described in Isaiah 65:21-22, where God promises to give His people a long and prosperous life.
5 Ezekiel 34:27 → Jeremiah 31:12 The concept of God's people being blessed and prospering is seen in both Ezekiel 34:27 and Jeremiah 31:12, where God promises to give His people a bright future and a hope.
6 Ezekiel 34:28 → Hosea 2:18 The promise of God's people living in safety and security in Ezekiel 34:28 is similar to the promise in Hosea 2:18, where God promises to make a covenant with His people and to give them peace and security.
7 Ezekiel 34:29 → Micah 4:4 The blessing of God's people living in peace and security in Ezekiel 34:29 is reminiscent of the blessing described in Micah 4:4, where God promises to give His people a time of peace and prosperity.
8 Ezekiel 34:30 → Zechariah 8:12 The concept of God's people being blessed and prospering is seen in both Ezekiel 34:30 and Zechariah 8:12, where God promises to give His people a bright future and a hope.
9 Ezekiel 34:31 → Matthew 25:32-33 The separation of the sheep from the goats in Ezekiel 34:31 is similar to the separation described in Matthew 25:32-33, where Jesus separates the sheep from the goats based on their treatment of others.
10 Ezekiel 34:11 → Psalm 23:1-4 The concept of God as a shepherd is seen in both Ezekiel 34:11 and Psalm 23:1-4, where David describes God as his shepherd who guides and protects him.

Sermons on Ezekiel 34

SermonDescription
David Wilkerson The Reproach of the Solemn Assembly - Part 1 by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the speaker expresses concern and disappointment over the current state of the church. He criticizes certain preachers who are focused on accumulating wealth and pr
Carter Conlon Dangerous Shepards by Carter Conlon In this sermon, the speaker expresses concern about the state of preaching in North America, stating that skits and plays have replaced traditional sermons in some churches. The sp
David Wilkerson Passing Under the Rod by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of the last days and the impending wrath of God. He highlights the image of a trumpet sounding and preparations being made for b
Don Wilkerson Breaking the Bondage of an Ungodly Heritage by Don Wilkerson In this sermon, the speaker addresses the concept of breaking the chains of an ungodly heritage. He criticizes the idea that individuals are not personally responsible for their ac
Henry Blackaby Why Revival Tarries - Part 2 by Henry Blackaby This sermon emphasizes the importance of shepherding God's people with a shepherd's heart, ensuring that none are lost but all are guided and kept in the full character and nature
Chuck Smith (Through the Bible) Ezekiel 31-35 by Chuck Smith In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of churches putting on entertaining programs to draw crowds instead of focusing on sound doctrine. He emphasizes that people with it
T. Austin-Sparks The Persistent Purpose of God - Part 3 by T. Austin-Sparks In this sermon, the speaker begins by suggesting a method for the audience to better engage with the message. He then provides a broad outline of the book being discussed, acknowle
Arlen L. Chitwood Israel's Coming Restoration by Arlen L. Chitwood In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Lot and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. He emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions and not looking back
David Wilkerson The Indwelling Power of the Holy Spirit by David Wilkerson This sermon emphasizes the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit as preached by Ezekiel, focusing on the need for repentance, turning away from sin, and embracing a new heart and spi
Aaron Dunlop The State of the church...pray Ye Therefore by Aaron Dunlop In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer in fulfilling the duty of Christians to share the gospel with the world. The speaker highlights the condition of the

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Ezekiel 34

In this chapter, we see the Lord's tender care for His people, who have been neglected and exploited by their leaders. The prophet condemns the shepherds of Israel for their selfish and cruel behavior, and God declares that He will judge them for their actions. The Lord then promises to care for His people Himself, seeking out and rescuing His scattered sheep. This chapter looks forward to the coming of a messianic shepherd, who will feed and care for God's people, and it emphasizes God's faithfulness and love for them. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The Lord is the good Shepherd, who lays down His life for the sheep, and who will guide and protect them forever.' Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

God's Concern for His People

Throughout the chapter, God's concern for His people is evident, highlighting His desire to care for and protect them. This is seen in His condemnation of unfaithful shepherds and His promise to personally seek out and rescue His scattered sheep.

The Importance of Faithful Leadership

The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithful leadership, warning of the consequences of neglecting or exploiting God's people. This serves as a reminder to leaders of their responsibility to care for those under their charge.

The Promise of a Messiah

The messianic shepherd foretold in Ezekiel 34:23-24 is a significant observation, highlighting God's plan to send a savior who will care for and lead His people.

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