Ezekiel 34:4
French PDV2017 (Parole de Vie 2017)
Vous n’avez pas rendu des forces aux moutons qui étaient faibles. Vous n’avez pas guéri ceux qui étaient malades. Vous n’avez pas soigné ceux qui avaient une patte cassée. Vous n’avez pas ramené ceux qui s’étaient éloignés du troupeau. Vous n’avez pas cherché ceux qui étaient perdus. Mais vous avez dominé les moutons avec violence et dureté.
What Does This Mean?
This verse from Ezekiel criticizes the shepherds of Israel for failing to care for their flock. Instead of helping the sick, injured, and lost, they ruled with cruelty. The speaker is God through the prophet Ezekiel.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a group of sheep, and you're supposed to take care of them. Instead of helping the sick or lost sheep, you ignore them and even treat them badly. That's what God is saying about the leaders of Israel.
Historical Background
Ezekiel, a prophet, wrote this around 593 BCE while in exile in Babylon. He was addressing the leaders of Israel who were supposed to take care of the people but failed to do so, leading to God's judgment.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, this verse can apply to leaders in various fields like business, education, or community service. It reminds us that leaders should care for and support those who are struggling, rather than neglecting or harming them.
Topics
leadershipresponsibilitycompassionjudgmentspiritual careabuse of power
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'The diseased have ye not strengthened' mean?
It means that the leaders did not help the weak or sick members of their community, which was their responsibility.
How does this verse apply to church leaders?
Church leaders should care for and support their congregation, especially those who are struggling, rather than neglecting or mistreating them.
What is the overall message of Ezekiel 34?
The overall message is a critique of Israel's leaders for their failure to care for the people, followed by God's promise to be a good shepherd to His people.
How can we ensure we are good leaders according to this verse?
Good leaders should care for those who are struggling, heal the wounded, and seek out those who are lost, rather than ruling with cruelty.