Ezekiel 34
We all face moments in life where we question God’s care for us. Yet, we are reminded throughout the Bible that God is our shepherd who cares for us deeply and is continually guiding us toward His purposes for our good. Ezekiel begins this passage by condemning the corrupt leaders of Israel who failed to fulfill their responsibilities as shepherds. These leaders exploited the people and neglected their needs. But in the midst of this, God steps in and declares that He Himself will become the shepherd of His people. This declaration speaks volumes about God’s personal involvement and His desire to take care of His flock directly.
Other Scriptures to Engage with this week:
- Isaiah 40:1-11
- Revelation 7:9-17
- Jeremiah 31:1-14
- Psalm 92
- Micah 7:8-20
- John 10:1-18
Use SOAP through the summer
Growth Groups take a break during the summer months, so we don’t have specific discussion questions for these Engage passages. Instead, we encourage you to use the SOAP Method (Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer). It’s a systematic way to engage with the Bible, encouraging personal reflection, spiritual growth, and a deeper understanding of Scripture. The tabs below will explain each step and offer some specific guidance and questions to ask as you reflect on the Scriptures.
Pray before you begin asking God to help you understand and apply what you read. Read the passage through once or twice before moving on to observation.
Consider any of these as you study the passage:
- Unpack the passage by answering who, what, where, when, why and how.
- Look for words that stand out to you or are repeated throughout the passage.
- List the characters involved and write out what you learn about them.
- Write out the passage in your own words.
- List any question you have about the passage.
Summarize the truth of this passage in your own words. Then ask yourself, is there some area of my life where this truth is needed?
- Is there an example for me to follow?
- Is there a command to obey?
- Is there a sin to avoid?
- Is there a verse to memorize?
- Is there a promise to claim?
Write out a brief prayer to close your study:
- Tell God what you learned in his Word.
- Commit to applying the truths you learned in this passage.