God commands Ezekiel to prophesy against the shepherds of Israel (kings, priests, prophets) who had failed His people so badly. These leaders are condemned for being self absorbed, caring only about their own desires and needs. They failed to do for Israel what good shepherds do for real sheep (Ezekiel 34: 1 - 4)
- strengthen the weak
- heal the sick
- bind up the injured
- bring back the ones that stray
- search of the lost sheep.
The spiritual shepherds of Israel failed to care in that way for the people under their care, the nation of Israel.
In contrast, God promises that in a future day He will send the "Good Shepherd", descended from King David. (Ezekiel 34:23, 24; John 10:1) We praise God for "that great Shepherd of the sheep" (Hebrews 13:20).
I hope you often pray for those who serve as pastors and elders, the shepherds of God's people today. They serve under the one Chief Shepherd. (I Peter 5: 1- 4) It is a privilege to lead and care for God's people. It is also an awesome responsibility.
- strengthen the weak
- heal the sick
- bind up the injured
- bring back the ones that stray
- search of the lost sheep.
The spiritual shepherds of Israel failed to care in that way for the people under their care, the nation of Israel.
In contrast, God promises that in a future day He will send the "Good Shepherd", descended from King David. (Ezekiel 34:23, 24; John 10:1) We praise God for "that great Shepherd of the sheep" (Hebrews 13:20).
I hope you often pray for those who serve as pastors and elders, the shepherds of God's people today. They serve under the one Chief Shepherd. (I Peter 5: 1- 4) It is a privilege to lead and care for God's people. It is also an awesome responsibility.
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