Tuesday, March 4 – Ezekiel 34, 35

1. Against whom did the LORD command Ezekiel to prophesy? (Ezekiel 34:2)

2. Why did the LORD command Ezekiel to prophesy against Israel’s shepherds? (Ezekiel 34:2, 4)

3. Against which mountain did Ezekiel prophesy? (Ezekiel 35:2)

4. Why did the LORD command Ezekiel to prophesy against Mount Seir? (Ezekiel 35:5)

The concept of a shepherd often represented kings or leaders in the ancient Near East. Leaders such as Joshua (Numbers 27:17) and King David (2 Samuel 5:2) were called shepherds. In this passage, the term refers to both civil and spiritual leaders. God rebuked the shepherds of Israel for serving themselves instead of their flock.

Instead of strengthening and healing the weak or seeking the lost, these shepherds ruled the people harshly. Their negligence left the flock vulnerable to wild beasts (hostile nations) and scattered them to many nations. Therefore, God Himself would become their Shepherd, rescuing His sheep from corrupt leaders, bringing them back to their land, and providing for them.

At the heart of this prophecy is the promise of a future Shepherd, a descendant of David who would care for God’s flock as a Prince under God’s reign. This points directly to Jesus, the Good Shepherd (John 10:11).

God’s covenant of peace would bring protection, abundance, and freedom, ensuring that all would recognize He is Israel’s true God. This prophecy anticipates the coming of Christ, who would unite Jews and Gentiles into one flock (Ephesians 2:14).

The shepherd metaphor remains relevant today. Leaders, whether spiritual or political, should prioritize the well-being of others rather than serving themselves. True leadership mirrors the Good Shepherd, who lays down His life for His sheep.

Mount Seir was the territory of Edom, the descendants of Esau, Jacob’s brother. Ezekiel had previously spoken against Edom (Ezekiel 25:12-14). Edom was a longstanding enemy of Israel, as seen during the reigns of Saul (1 Samuel 14:47), Solomon (1 Kings 11:14-22), Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20:1-23), Jehoram (2 Kings 8:21), and Ahaz (2 Chronicles 28:17).

This prophecy brought hope to Israel and judgment upon its enemies. God vowed to bring desolation to Edom for their perpetual hatred toward Israel.

Edom was judged for
1. Perpetual hatred – Edom harbored a longstanding enmity against Israel despite being distant relatives. (Clarke)
2. Taking advantage of Israel’s distress – When Babylon conquered Judah, Edom sought to expand into the Negev region. (Vawter & Hoppe)
3. Boasting against God – Edom claimed the land of Israel as their own, disregarding God’s sovereignty.

Ezekiel prophesied that Edom’s cities would be left abandoned forever. This was fulfilled literally; Edomite ancient towns, including Petra and Teman, now lie in ruins.

“The sin of Edom was perpetual hatred, and its punishment would be perpetual desolations.” (Poole)

When Babylon conquered Judah, Edom saw an opportunity for expansion. Instead of helping their Israelite brothers, they took advantage of the crisis. God held them accountable.

Even in judgment, God’s presence remained in the land. Though His people were exiled, He had not abandoned them.

The Edomites assumed that God had left Israel, believing its land was theirs for the taking. However, they failed to recognize that the LORD was still there (Jehovah-Shammah) and that He would defend His people.

“Edom could not escape the Abrahamic covenant’s consequences. Hatred against Israel led to inevitable judgment.” (Feinberg)
Ezekiel’s prophecy warns against arrogance and hostility toward God’s people. Nations and individuals who oppose God’s plan will ultimately face His judgment.

Ezekiel 34 and 35 contrast corrupt leadership and God’s perfect shepherding. While faithless leaders exploit their flock, God gathers, restores, and protects His people.

Ezekiel 35 reminds us that God holds nations accountable for their actions against His people. He is just, and He defends those who trust in Him.

As we look at today’s world, we see similar problems: self-serving leaders, oppression, and hostility toward God’s people. But the message remains the same: The Lord is there, watching, guiding, and preparing a place for His faithful ones.

Are you under the care of the Good Shepherd?