Day 235: Ezekiel 33-36
The Bible Dept.
From Failed Shepherds to the Good Shepherd
This chapter explores Ezekiel 34's critique of Israel's failed leaders, linking it to Jesus's role as the 'good shepherd.' It also highlights the responsibilities of contemporary leaders as under-shepherds, while introducing a new book that reflects on these biblical themes amid personal chaos.
When God talks about revival, it’s rarely what we expect. In Ezekiel 33–36, the prophet shifts from warning of judgment to announcing a radical promise of restoration: God’s people will be returned, rebuilt, replanted, and renewed—not by their effort, but by His Spirit. Revival isn’t just miracles, signs, and wonders; it’s a transformed heart, a new spirit, and a people empowered to obey. If you’ve ever wondered what true revival looks like, this episode reframes it entirely.
✈️ Overview:
• Ezekiel pivots from judgment to restoration, highlighting God’s plan to return His people to their land
• God promises renewal—rebuilding cities, replanting the land, and resettling His people after exile
• Leadership failure is exposed, as God declares Himself the true Shepherd of Israel
• A new covenant emerges: God promises a new heart and Spirit so His people can finally walk in His ways
• Revival is reframed—not as emotional highs, but as lasting transformation and faithful obedience
🔎 Context Clues:
• Chapters 33–36 mark a major turning point in Ezekiel, moving from warnings to hope
• Ezekiel’s three years of silence are broken once news of Jerusalem’s fall arrives
• “Shepherds of Israel” refers to failed kings and leaders whose neglect led the nation astray
• Edom’s betrayal during Jerusalem’s siege sparks God’s judgment, showing how broken covenant relationships carry consequences
• The covenant renewal here connects to Jeremiah 31’s “new covenant” and points forward to Pentecost
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• The “Good Shepherd” language Jesus uses in John 10 directly ties back to Ezekiel 34
• In chapter 36, God’s promise to “give you a new heart and a new spirit” is central to understanding the Holy Spirit’s role today
• Revival in the Old Testament isn’t linked to miraculous signs but to restored covenant faithfulness
• The exile provided a “Sabbath rest” for the land, fulfilling God’s commands from Leviticus
• The chiasm of Ezekiel frames these chapters as a pivot: from old Israel judged to new Israel renewed and protected
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Revival isn’t just miracles—it’s transformation from the inside out
• Obedience requires the Spirit; without Him, we cannot sustain faithfulness
• God restores not because we deserve it, but for His name’s sake and reputation
• True renewal happens when God reshapes hearts, not just circumstances
• Our lives reflect God’s character—how we live affects His reputation in the world
God’s vision of revival is deeper than emotional moments; it’s about new hearts, new desires, and Spirit-led obedience. If you’ve been chasing miracles but missing transformation, this episode will challenge and encourage you to see revival the way God defines it.
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