Day 235: Ezekiel 33-36

Aug 23, 2025

Discover a transformative vision in Ezekiel that shifts from judgment to a promise of restoration. The discussion reveals God's intent to rebuild and renew His people, empowering them through His Spirit. Unearth the critique of failed leadership and the emergence of the true Shepherd. Revival is redefined, focusing not just on miraculous events but on lasting heart transformation and obedience. Explore how human actions influence divine reputation, highlighting God's grace and the need for humility in today's context.

Ask episode

AI Snips

Chapters

Books

Transcript

Episode notes

INSIGHT

From Judgment To Restoration

Ezekiel shifts from warning to restoration after Jerusalem falls, focusing on return, rebuild, replant, and resettle.
The remaining chapters promise God will bring exiles home and renew the land by his action, not theirs.

INSIGHT

Shepherds Failed; God Shepherds

Ezekiel 34 condemns failed leaders as 'shepherds' who fed themselves instead of the flock.
This sets up Yahweh (and later the Messiah) as the true shepherd who cares for the people.

ADVICE

Lead As An Under-Shepherd

Serve as an under-shepherd who leads the flock as an extension of Christ, not your own preferences.
Model consistent pastoral care and avoid using ministry to advance personal interests.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Get the app

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.

🚀 START HERE!

Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.

📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:

Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.

🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?

Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!

🐉 DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOK

Crushing Chaos is available NOW wherever books are sold. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com .

👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:

📱 STAY CONNECTED:

📨 EMAIL US!

Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.

💥 MORE RESOURCES:

🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!

SUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-department

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code DEPARTMENT10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.com

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands