Gawng kya ai sagu ni hpe pyi nanhte lanu lahku nga myit dai n rai; machyi hkrum ai wa hpe mung tsi shamai ya nga ai n rai, ningma kap ai sagu hpe ahkyen kayawp ai n rai, dam mat wa ai sagu hpe mung bai woi la ai n rai, mat mat sai sagu hpe mung tam la nga myit dai n rai. Shing rai hkan galaw na malai, nanhte gaw shanhte hpe myit ja ai hte adip arip di reng nga myit dai.
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
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.