How can we apply Ezekiel 34:20 to discernment in church leadership? Setting the Scene Ezekiel 34 exposes unfaithful shepherds—leaders who fed themselves while neglecting the flock. In verse 20 the LORD declares, “Behold, I Myself will judge between the fat sheep and the lean sheep”. That single line speaks volumes for how we evaluate leadership today. What the Verse Teaches about God’s Standard • God personally involves Himself in separating faithful from unfaithful. • “Fat sheep” picture those who prosper at others’ expense; “lean sheep” represent the wounded and overlooked. • Judgment is not left to popularity, charisma, or outward success but to the Lord’s righteous assessment. Implications for Discernment in Church Leadership • Pay attention to fruit, not flash. Leadership that hoards resources or influence mirrors the “fat sheep.” • Look for sacrificial care. True shepherds “feed the flock” (cf. John 21:17) and “lay down” their lives (John 10:11). • Watch for defensiveness. Ezekiel’s fat sheep pushed and butted the weak (v. 21). Modern parallels include bullying, authoritarianism, and marginalizing dissent. • Expect accountability. “I Myself will judge” warns that hidden abuses will be exposed (cf. 1 Timothy 5:24). • Measure motives. Leaders must serve “eagerly, not under compulsion… not lording it over those entrusted” (1 Peter 5:2-3). Practical Steps for Believers and Elders 1. Compare teaching and lifestyle to Scripture (Acts 17:11). 2. Weigh decisions by their effect on the vulnerable—new believers, widows, minorities, the poor. 3. Establish plurality and transparency so no one person grows “fat.” 4. Confront, if needed, with Matthew 18’s process: private, then with witnesses, then before the church. 5. Pray for discernment and courage: “Test everything; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Supporting Passages to Keep in View • Acts 20:28-30—shepherds must guard the flock from “savage wolves.” • 1 Timothy 3:1-7—character qualifications outweigh skills. • Jeremiah 23:1-4—woe to shepherds who scatter sheep. • Hebrews 13:17—leaders watch “as those who will give an account.” Living It Out Ezekiel 34:20 reminds us that Christ, the Chief Shepherd, still judges between the “fat” and the “lean.” Churches that value humble, sacrificial leadership align themselves with His standard and safeguard the flock He purchased with His own blood. |
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