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Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 34 - Verse 10

34:10
Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require my flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any more; for I will deliver my flock from their mouth, that they may not be meat for them.

Meaning

The verse "Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require my flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any more; for I will deliver my flock from their mouth, that they may not be meat for them." highlights a message from the Lord GOD declaring His disapproval of the shepherds who have not fulfilled their duty of caring for His flock. The shepherds in this context refer to the religious leaders or those in positions of authority who were supposed to guide and protect the people of God but failed to do so. Because of their negligence, God promises to hold them accountable for the well-being of His flock, ensuring that they will no longer be able to exploit or harm His people. This verse serves as a reminder of the responsibility that leaders have in guiding others in a righteous and just manner, and the consequences they will face for neglecting their duties.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the Lord God is speaking directly to the shepherds of his people, indicating his disapproval of their actions. The term "shepherds" is often used metaphorically in the Bible to refer to leaders or individuals responsible for the care and guidance of others. Here, God is declaring that he is against these shepherds and will hold them accountable for their neglect of his flock. The word "require" implies that the shepherds will be held responsible for the well-being of the flock, and God will take action to ensure that they no longer have power over his people. By stating that he will deliver his flock from their mouth, God is indicating that he will protect his people from the harm caused by these ineffective shepherds. This verse serves as a warning to leaders to fulfill their responsibilities faithfully and to prioritize the well-being of those under their care.

American Standard Version

Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require my sheep at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the sheep; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any more; and I will deliver my sheep from their mouth, that they may not be food for them.
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