Ezekiel 34:11-19 For thus said the Lord GOD; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out.… I. THE SIMILE OF CHRIST TO A SHEPHERD. 1. His character: "a shepherd" (John 10:14). 2. His employment: "seeketh out" (Ezekiel 34:11). 3. The objects of His care: "His flock" (Isaiah 40:11). 4. Their condition: "scattered" (John 11:52). 5. Then the time of gathering: "the day" (Zechariah 13:1). 6. His situation: "among them" (Psalm 132:13, 14). II. THE IMPORTANT DECLARATION. "I will seek out." 1. By the word written (2 Timothy 3:15). 2. The word preached (1 Corinthians 1:23, 24). 3. But always by the Spirit (Zechariah 4:6). III. WHY THEY ARE CALLED "HIS SHEEP." IV. THE DELIVERANCE OF THE SHEEP. 1. This implies determination: "I will" (Ezekiel 13:21). 2. It denotes contest: "deliver" (Isaiah 49:25). 3. It signifies power: "I will deliver them" (Isaiah 40:29). "All places." (1) From all parts of the world. (2) From all sinful practices. (3) From all opposing powers (Revelation 7:9). 4. It also denotes great wisdom in searching and distinguishing them; simply because — (1) They are separated one from another. (2) They mingle with the wicked. (T. B. Baker.) Parallel Verses KJV: For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out. |
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