How does Isaiah 35:9 connect to Jesus as the Good Shepherd? Reading Isaiah 35:9 in Its Setting “No lion will be there, and no vicious beast will go up on it; they will not be found there. But the redeemed will walk there.” What the Verse Declares • A lion-free highway—symbol of perfect safety • “Vicious beast” removed—evil and threat eliminated • Only “the redeemed” permitted—those bought back by God’s own initiative • Goal: free, joyful travel to Zion (vv. 10)—the presence of God Old Testament Hints of a Shepherd’s Protection • Psalm 23:4—“I will fear no evil, for You are with me.” • Ezekiel 34:25—God promises to “banish wild beasts from the land.” • These patterns preview a leader who guards His flock from every predator. Jesus Picks Up the Theme John 10:11,14—“I am the good shepherd… I lay down My life for the sheep.” • He personally removes the ultimate “lion” (1 Peter 5:8) by conquering Satan at the cross. • His voice leads the redeemed onto the safe path (John 10:3-4). • No “vicious beast” can snatch believers from His hand (John 10:28). How Isaiah 35:9 Connects to the Good Shepherd 1. Same audience—the redeemed. 2. Same outcome—absolute security. 3. Same enemy removed—roaring lion imagery silenced. 4. Same destination—arrival in God’s joyful presence (Isaiah 35:10; John 14:3). 5. Same cost—the Shepherd redeems by His blood (1 Peter 1:18-19). Walking the Highway with Jesus Today • Confidence: threats may prowl in the world, but not on His path. • Clarity: stay near the Shepherd’s voice through Scripture and prayer. • Community: travel together; “the redeemed will walk there” is plural. • Hope: the highway leads to Zion’s “everlasting joy” (Isaiah 35:10), echoed in Revelation 7:17—“the Lamb… will shepherd them.” Summary Snapshot Isaiah 35:9 pictures a predator-free road reserved for the redeemed. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, fulfills the promise by removing every spiritual threat, guiding His flock, and guaranteeing their safe arrival in the Father’s presence. |
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