Ezekiel:34

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* Verse 1-6 - 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 . * Verse 7-16 - 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 . * Verse 17-31 - 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 ,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 . **** Matthew Henry 's Commentary ****

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