First Lesson: Jeremiah 23:1-6

Theme: A promised shepherd and coming king

Exegetical Note
Since shepherding and ruling were closely connected in the ancient Near Eastern cultures, this passage is really about politics rather than bucolics. The reference to the inept shepherds is therefore a veiled way of talking about the ineffectual (or unrighteous) kings of Judah; and the promise of a "righteous Branch" of the house of David is messianic. It is important to note that the original concept of the Messiah was political: he would be a great king who would stabilize and secure Judah and Israel.

Call to Worship
Leader: A great ruler is like a shepherd who protects his flock.
People: THE GREATEST JEWISH KING WAS DAVID, WHO RULED JUSTLY AND RIGHTEOUSLY AND WISELY.
Leader: When the kings who su…