1 And the word of the Lord came unto me, saying,

2 Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks?

3 Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed: but ye feed not the flock.

4 The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them.

5 And they were scattered, because there is no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were scattered.

6 My sheep wandered through all the mountains, and upon every high hill: yea, my flock was scattered upon all the face of the earth, and none did search or seek after them.

7 Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of the Lord;

8 As I live, saith the Lord God, surely because my flock became a prey, and my flock became meat to every beast of the field, because there was no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for my flock, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not my flock;

9 Therefore, O ye shepherds, hear the word of the Lord;

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.

11 For thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out.

12 As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day.

13 And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country.

14 I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel.

15 I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord God.

16 I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.

17 And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.

18 Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have eaten up the good pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet the residue of your pastures? and to have drunk of the deep waters, but ye must foul the residue with your feet?

19 And as for my flock, they eat that which ye have trodden with your feet; and they drink that which ye have fouled with your feet.

20 Therefore thus saith the Lord God unto them; Behold, I, even I, will judge between the fat cattle and between the lean cattle.

21 Because ye have thrust with side and with shoulder, and pushed all the diseased with your horns, till ye have scattered them abroad;

22 Therefore will I save my flock, and they shall no more be a prey; and I will judge between cattle and cattle.

23 And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd.

24 And I the Lord will be their God, and my servant David a prince among them; I the Lord have spoken it.

25 And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods.

26 And I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers of blessing.

27 And the tree of the field shall yield her fruit, and the earth shall yield her increase, and they shall be safe in their land, and shall know that I am the Lord, when I have broken the bands of their yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that served themselves of them.

28 And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen, neither shall the beast of the land devour them; but they shall dwell safely, and none shall make them afraid.

29 And I will raise up for them a plant of renown, and they shall be no more consumed with hunger in the land, neither bear the shame of the heathen any more.

30 Thus shall they know that I the Lord their God am with them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are my people, saith the Lord God.

31 And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord God.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The rulers reproved.
The people became as sheep without a shepherd, were given up as a prey to their enemies, and the land was utterly desolated. No rank or office can exempt from the reproofs of God's word, men who neglect their duty, and abuse the trust reposed in them.
McArther Bible Commentary
From this chapter on, Ezekiel's messages are mostly comforting, telling of God's grace and faithfulness to His covenant promises.
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 33:33 Ezekiel 34:2

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The rulers reproved.
The people became as sheep without a shepherd, were given up as a prey to their enemies, and the land was utterly desolated. No rank or office can exempt from the reproofs of God's word, men who neglect their duty, and abuse the trust reposed in them.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
A Charge to Ministers
—Upon the ministers of God rests a solemn, serious charge. They will be called to a strict account for the manner in which they have discharged their responsibility. If they do not tell the people of the binding claims of God's law, if they do not preach the Word with clearness, but confuse the minds of the people by their own interpretations, they are shepherds who feed themselves, but neglect to feed the flock. They make of none effect the law of Jehovah, and souls perish because of their unfaithfulness. The blood of these souls will be upon their heads. God will call them to account for their unfaithfulness. But this will in no wise excuse those who listened to the sophistry of men, discarding the Word of God. God's law is a transcript of His character. And His word is not Yea and Nay, but Yea and Amen (Letter 162, 1900).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The shepherds - The rulers of the people kings, magistrates, and princes; as also priests, and prophets. Of Israel - The two tribes, and the few out of the ten that adhere to the house of David. That feed - Contrive their own ease, advantage, and honour.
McArther Bible Commentary
prophesy against the shepherds. The reference is to preexilic leaders such as kings, priests, and prophets, i.e., false leaders who fleeced the flock for personal gain (Eze 34:3-4), rather than true leaders who fed or led righteously (as Eze 22:25-28; Jer. 14, 23; Zech. 11). This stands in contrast to the Lord as Shepherd in Psalms 23; Psa 80:1; Isa 40:11; Jer 31:10; Luk 15:4-5; Joh 10:1 ff.
Bible Cross References
John 10:8 John 10:11 John 21:15 2 Corinthians 12:14 Jude 1:12 Isaiah 40:11 Jeremiah 2:8 Jeremiah 3:15 Jeremiah 10:21 Jeremiah 12:10 Jeremiah 23:1 Ezekiel 22:25 Ezekiel 34:1 Ezekiel 34:8 Ezekiel 34:10 Ezekiel 34:14 Ezekiel 34:15 Amos 6:4 Micah 3:1 Micah 3:11

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The rulers reproved.
The people became as sheep without a shepherd, were given up as a prey to their enemies, and the land was utterly desolated. No rank or office can exempt from the reproofs of God's word, men who neglect their duty, and abuse the trust reposed in them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Ye kill - You contrive methods, to take first the life, and next the estate of the well - fed, the rich and wealthy. But - You take care to lead, protect, provide for, and watch over them.
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 22:25 Ezekiel 22:27 Amos 6:4 Zechariah 11:5 Zechariah 11:16

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The rulers reproved.
The people became as sheep without a shepherd, were given up as a prey to their enemies, and the land was utterly desolated. No rank or office can exempt from the reproofs of God's word, men who neglect their duty, and abuse the trust reposed in them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The diseased - The weak and languishing. Bound up - Oppressors in the state, or church, broke many then, but these shepherds bound them not up.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:36 Matthew 10:6 Matthew 18:12 Matthew 18:13 Luke 15:4 1 Peter 5:3 Leviticus 25:43 Isaiah 1:5 Isaiah 3:7 Zechariah 11:16

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The rulers reproved.
The people became as sheep without a shepherd, were given up as a prey to their enemies, and the land was utterly desolated. No rank or office can exempt from the reproofs of God's word, men who neglect their duty, and abuse the trust reposed in them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
No shepherd - No vigilant, faithful shepherd. Became meat - Were made a prey of, and devoured by all their neighbours.
McArther Bible Commentary
food for all the beasts. The beasts pictured nations that prey on Israel (cf. Dan 7:3-7), though it could possibly include actual wild beasts, as in Eze 14:21. Cf. Eze 34:25, Eze 34:28; see notes there.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:36 Mark 6:34 Numbers 27:17 2 Chronicles 18:16 Jeremiah 10:21 Jeremiah 23:2 Jeremiah 50:6 Jeremiah 50:7 Ezekiel 34:8 Ezekiel 34:28 Zechariah 10:2

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The rulers reproved.
The people became as sheep without a shepherd, were given up as a prey to their enemies, and the land was utterly desolated. No rank or office can exempt from the reproofs of God's word, men who neglect their duty, and abuse the trust reposed in them.
Bible Cross References
John 10:16 1 Peter 2:25 Psalm 142:4 Jeremiah 40:11 Jeremiah 40:12 Jeremiah 50:6 Ezekiel 7:16 Ezekiel 34:7 Hosea 7:13 Joel 3:2

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The people are to be restored to their own land.
The Lord declared that he intended mercy towards the scattered flock. Doubtless this, in the first place, had reference to the restoration of the Jews. It also represented the good Shepherd's tender care of the souls of his people. He finds them in their days of darkness and ignorance, and brings them to his fold. He comes to their relief in times of persecution and temptation. He leads them in the ways of righteousness, and causes them to rest on his love and faithfulness. The proud and self-sufficient, are enemies of the true gospel and of believers; against such we must guard. He has rest for disquieted saints, and terror for presumptuous sinners.
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 34:6 Ezekiel 34:8

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The people are to be restored to their own land.
The Lord declared that he intended mercy towards the scattered flock. Doubtless this, in the first place, had reference to the restoration of the Jews. It also represented the good Shepherd's tender care of the souls of his people. He finds them in their days of darkness and ignorance, and brings them to his fold. He comes to their relief in times of persecution and temptation. He leads them in the ways of righteousness, and causes them to rest on his love and faithfulness. The proud and self-sufficient, are enemies of the true gospel and of believers; against such we must guard. He has rest for disquieted saints, and terror for presumptuous sinners.
Bible Cross References
Acts 20:29 Jude 1:12 Ezekiel 34:2 Ezekiel 34:5 Ezekiel 34:7 Ezekiel 34:9 Ezekiel 36:4 Zechariah 10:2

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The people are to be restored to their own land.
The Lord declared that he intended mercy towards the scattered flock. Doubtless this, in the first place, had reference to the restoration of the Jews. It also represented the good Shepherd's tender care of the souls of his people. He finds them in their days of darkness and ignorance, and brings them to his fold. He comes to their relief in times of persecution and temptation. He leads them in the ways of righteousness, and causes them to rest on his love and faithfulness. The proud and self-sufficient, are enemies of the true gospel and of believers; against such we must guard. He has rest for disquieted saints, and terror for presumptuous sinners.
McArther Bible Commentary
This was no idle threat, as proven by the case of King Zedekiah (cf. Jer 52:10-11).
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 34:8 Ezekiel 34:10

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The people are to be restored to their own land.
The Lord declared that he intended mercy towards the scattered flock. Doubtless this, in the first place, had reference to the restoration of the Jews. It also represented the good Shepherd's tender care of the souls of his people. He finds them in their days of darkness and ignorance, and brings them to his fold. He comes to their relief in times of persecution and temptation. He leads them in the ways of righteousness, and causes them to rest on his love and faithfulness. The proud and self-sufficient, are enemies of the true gospel and of believers; against such we must guard. He has rest for disquieted saints, and terror for presumptuous sinners.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 2:29 1 Samuel 2:30 Psalm 72:12 Jeremiah 21:13 Jeremiah 52:24 Ezekiel 5:8 Ezekiel 13:8 Ezekiel 13:23 Ezekiel 34:2 Ezekiel 34:9 Ezekiel 34:22 Zechariah 10:3

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The people are to be restored to their own land.
The Lord declared that he intended mercy towards the scattered flock. Doubtless this, in the first place, had reference to the restoration of the Jews. It also represented the good Shepherd's tender care of the souls of his people. He finds them in their days of darkness and ignorance, and brings them to his fold. He comes to their relief in times of persecution and temptation. He leads them in the ways of righteousness, and causes them to rest on his love and faithfulness. The proud and self-sufficient, are enemies of the true gospel and of believers; against such we must guard. He has rest for disquieted saints, and terror for presumptuous sinners.
McArther Bible Commentary
I … will search. God, the true Shepherd, would search out and find His sheep in order to restore Israel to their land for the kingdom which the Messiah leads (Eze 34:12-14).
Bible Cross References
John 10:11 Psalm 23:1 Ezekiel 11:17 Ezekiel 20:41

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The people are to be restored to their own land.
The Lord declared that he intended mercy towards the scattered flock. Doubtless this, in the first place, had reference to the restoration of the Jews. It also represented the good Shepherd's tender care of the souls of his people. He finds them in their days of darkness and ignorance, and brings them to his fold. He comes to their relief in times of persecution and temptation. He leads them in the ways of righteousness, and causes them to rest on his love and faithfulness. The proud and self-sufficient, are enemies of the true gospel and of believers; against such we must guard. He has rest for disquieted saints, and terror for presumptuous sinners.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
In the cloudy and dark day - In the time of general distress.
McArther Bible Commentary
a cloudy and dark day. This refers to the Day of the Lord judgment on Israel (cf. Jer 30:4-7).
Bible Cross References
Luke 19:10 John 10:16 Proverbs 27:23 Isaiah 40:11 Isaiah 56:8 Jeremiah 13:16 Jeremiah 23:3 Jeremiah 31:8 Jeremiah 31:10 Jeremiah 33:12 Ezekiel 30:3 Ezekiel 32:7 Joel 2:2 Zechariah 10:3

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The people are to be restored to their own land.
The Lord declared that he intended mercy towards the scattered flock. Doubtless this, in the first place, had reference to the restoration of the Jews. It also represented the good Shepherd's tender care of the souls of his people. He finds them in their days of darkness and ignorance, and brings them to his fold. He comes to their relief in times of persecution and temptation. He leads them in the ways of righteousness, and causes them to rest on his love and faithfulness. The proud and self-sufficient, are enemies of the true gospel and of believers; against such we must guard. He has rest for disquieted saints, and terror for presumptuous sinners.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 30:3 Psalm 37:3 Isaiah 30:25 Jeremiah 23:8 Jeremiah 31:8 Jeremiah 50:19 Ezekiel 20:42 Ezekiel 28:25 Ezekiel 34:23 Ezekiel 36:12 Ezekiel 36:24 Ezekiel 36:29 Ezekiel 36:30 Ezekiel 38:8 Ezekiel 39:25 Micah 4:6 Micah 5:4 Micah 7:14 Zephaniah 3:13

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The people are to be restored to their own land.
The Lord declared that he intended mercy towards the scattered flock. Doubtless this, in the first place, had reference to the restoration of the Jews. It also represented the good Shepherd's tender care of the souls of his people. He finds them in their days of darkness and ignorance, and brings them to his fold. He comes to their relief in times of persecution and temptation. He leads them in the ways of righteousness, and causes them to rest on his love and faithfulness. The proud and self-sufficient, are enemies of the true gospel and of believers; against such we must guard. He has rest for disquieted saints, and terror for presumptuous sinners.
Bible Cross References
John 10:9 Psalm 23:2 Psalm 37:3 Jeremiah 31:12 Jeremiah 31:25 Ezekiel 28:25 Ezekiel 28:26 Ezekiel 34:2 Ezekiel 34:26 Ezekiel 36:9 Ezekiel 36:12 Ezekiel 36:29 Ezekiel 36:30 Daniel 11:24

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The people are to be restored to their own land.
The Lord declared that he intended mercy towards the scattered flock. Doubtless this, in the first place, had reference to the restoration of the Jews. It also represented the good Shepherd's tender care of the souls of his people. He finds them in their days of darkness and ignorance, and brings them to his fold. He comes to their relief in times of persecution and temptation. He leads them in the ways of righteousness, and causes them to rest on his love and faithfulness. The proud and self-sufficient, are enemies of the true gospel and of believers; against such we must guard. He has rest for disquieted saints, and terror for presumptuous sinners.
McArther Bible Commentary
I will feed My flock. In contrast to self-indulgent leaders who took advantage of the sheep, God will meet the needs of His sheep (people). This is clearly reminiscent of Psalm 23 and will be fulfilled by the Good Shepherd (Joh 10:1 ff.), who will reign as Israel's shepherd.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 23:1 Psalm 23:2 Jeremiah 50:6 Ezekiel 34:2 Ezekiel 34:23

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The people are to be restored to their own land.
The Lord declared that he intended mercy towards the scattered flock. Doubtless this, in the first place, had reference to the restoration of the Jews. It also represented the good Shepherd's tender care of the souls of his people. He finds them in their days of darkness and ignorance, and brings them to his fold. He comes to their relief in times of persecution and temptation. He leads them in the ways of righteousness, and causes them to rest on his love and faithfulness. The proud and self-sufficient, are enemies of the true gospel and of believers; against such we must guard. He has rest for disquieted saints, and terror for presumptuous sinners.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The fat - The powerful and rich. I will feed - I will judge and punish them.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 147:3 Isaiah 1:5 Isaiah 10:16 Isaiah 49:26 Jeremiah 31:8 Jeremiah 50:6 Ezekiel 20:34 Micah 4:6 Zephaniah 3:19

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I judge - Between men and men, between the smaller and weaker, and the greater and stronger, as their different state requires I will do. The rams - Rulers, who also shalt be dealt with according to their behaviour.
McArther Bible Commentary
judge between. Once He has judged the leaders, God will also judge the abusive members of the flock as to their true spiritual state. This passage anticipates the judgment of the people given by Jesus Christ in Mat 25:31-46. The ungodly are known because they trample the poor. The Lord alone is able to sort out the true from the false (cf. Christ's parables of Matt. 13), and will do so in the final kingdom.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 25:32 Ezekiel 20:38 Ezekiel 34:20 Malachi 4:1

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
But ye must tread down - You great ones, eat the fat, and sweet; and what you cannot eat, you waste and spoil. The deep waters - Which are sufficient for all.
Bible Cross References
Numbers 16:9 Numbers 16:13 2 Samuel 7:19 Proverbs 25:26 Isaiah 7:13 Ezekiel 34:19

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 25:26 Ezekiel 34:18 Ezekiel 34:20

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I will judge - I will vindicate the poor. The fat cattle - The rich. The lean - The poor.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 25:32 Ezekiel 34:17 Ezekiel 34:19 Ezekiel 34:21

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
Bible Cross References
Luke 13:14 Deuteronomy 33:17 Ezekiel 34:20 Daniel 8:4

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 72:12 Jeremiah 23:3 Ezekiel 34:10

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
One shepherd - Christ, the great good, chief, only shepherd, that laid down his life for his sheep. My servant David - The seed of David, the beloved one, who was typified by David, and is in other places called by his name, as (Jeremiah 30:9) ; (Ezekiel 37:24) ; (Isaiah 37:35) ; (Hosea 3:5) . He shall feed - Do all the office of a good and faithful shepherd, and that for ever.
McArther Bible Commentary
one shepherd … David. This refers to the greater One in David's dynasty (cf. 2Sa 7:12-16), the Messiah, who will be Israel's ultimate king over the millennial kingdom (Eze 31:24-26; Jer 30:9; Hos 3:5; Zec 14:9).
Bible Cross References
John 10:11 John 10:16 Revelation 7:17 Psalm 89:49 Isaiah 40:11 Jeremiah 3:15 Jeremiah 23:4 Jeremiah 30:9 Jeremiah 30:21 Jeremiah 33:14 Ezekiel 34:13 Ezekiel 34:15 Ezekiel 37:22 Ezekiel 37:24 Micah 5:4 Zechariah 13:7

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
My servant - Christ was in this great work his fathers servant, (Isaiah 42:1) .
McArther Bible Commentary
the lord. This is God the Father. a prince. The word can at times be used of the king himself (Eze 37:34-35; cf. Eze 28:2, Eze 28:12), as here.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 55:3 Isaiah 55:4 Jeremiah 30:9 Jeremiah 30:21 Ezekiel 21:27 Ezekiel 37:22 Ezekiel 37:24 Ezekiel 37:25 Ezekiel 44:3 Ezekiel 45:7 Ezekiel 48:21 Hosea 3:5 Zechariah 13:7

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A covenant - A covenant of promises, which contain, and shall bring peace, that is all good.
McArther Bible Commentary
covenant of peace. This refers to the new covenant of Jer 31:31-34 (cf. Eze 37:26) in full operation during the millennial kingdom. wild beasts. Actual animals will be tamed in the kingdom. See Isa 11:6-9; Isa 35:9; Hos 2:18.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 26:5 Numbers 25:12 Job 5:22 Job 5:23 Isaiah 11:6 Isaiah 11:9 Jeremiah 32:37 Jeremiah 33:16 Ezekiel 16:60 Ezekiel 16:62 Ezekiel 20:37 Ezekiel 28:26 Ezekiel 34:27 Ezekiel 34:28 Ezekiel 37:26 Ezekiel 39:26 Hosea 2:18 Zechariah 14:11

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Them - My returned captives, The places - All the country. My hill - Jerusalem.
McArther Bible Commentary
My hill. Jerusalem and Zion are in view, where the Jews will come to worship the Lord. showers of blessing. Cf. the "times of refreshing" in Act 3:19-20, when the curses of Deu 28:15-68 are lifted.
Bible Cross References
Acts 14:17 Genesis 12:2 Leviticus 25:21 Deuteronomy 11:13 Deuteronomy 28:12 Psalm 68:9 Isaiah 44:3 Ezekiel 34:14 Ezekiel 34:29 Ezekiel 36:8 Zechariah 8:13 Malachi 3:10

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
McArther Bible Commentary
The faithfulness of the land is also indicated in Amo 9:13.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 26:13 Psalm 67:6 Psalm 85:12 Isaiah 52:2 Isaiah 52:3 Jeremiah 30:8 Ezekiel 28:25 Ezekiel 30:18 Ezekiel 34:25 Ezekiel 34:29 Ezekiel 36:29 Ezekiel 36:30 Ezekiel 38:8 Ezekiel 38:11 Hosea 11:11

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
McArther Bible Commentary
no longer be a prey. God will stop other nations from subjugating the people of Israel.
Bible Cross References
Jeremiah 30:10 Jeremiah 32:37 Ezekiel 34:5 Ezekiel 34:25 Ezekiel 36:4 Ezekiel 39:26 Hosea 11:11 Amos 9:15

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A plant - The Messiah. The shame - The reproach.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 4:2 Isaiah 60:21 Isaiah 61:3 Ezekiel 34:26 Ezekiel 34:27 Ezekiel 36:6 Ezekiel 36:15 Ezekiel 36:29 Joel 2:19

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Their God - By covenant, from their forefathers. Am with them - Present with them, and reconciled to them.
McArther Bible Commentary
I … their God. An oft-repeated OT theme (cf. Gen 17:7-8), this phrase speaks of the ultimate salvation of Israel as in Rom 11:25-27.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 46:7 Psalm 46:11 Psalm 100:3 Ezekiel 14:11 Ezekiel 36:28

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The kingdom of Christ.
The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter verses, (Ezekiel 1:23-31), prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd, the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground. Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached; and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of righteousness.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 78:52 Psalm 80:1 Psalm 100:3 Jeremiah 23:1 Ezekiel 35:1 Ezekiel 36:38