OLD TESTAMENT TEXTS
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 is a description of God as a good shepherd. Psalm 100 is a song of praise.
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 - "God as the Good Shepherd"
Setting. There are two central images in Ezekiel 34, shepherds and sheep. The image of a shepherd is used in this chapter to refer to kings and the power of monarchs to lead the people of Israel, their sheep. The imagery of this chapter, therefore, relates well to the Reign of Christ Sunday.
Structure. An overview of Ezekiel 34 is necessary for interpreting the specific verses of the lectionary. The larger text can be outlined in the following manner.
I. Judgment Against Past Shepherds (vv. 1-10)
A. Indictment (vv. 1-6)
B. Verdict (vv. 7-10)
II. God as Shepherd (vv. 11-24)
A. Divine search and care for…