How can believers support their leaders in fulfilling Ezekiel 34:3's expectations? Hearing the Warning of Ezekiel 34:3 “You eat the fat, wear the wool, and butcher the fattened sheep, but you do not feed the flock.” (Ezekiel 34:3) God condemns leaders who enrich themselves while neglecting the spiritual and practical wellbeing of those they serve. Believers share responsibility for helping their shepherds avoid this trap and instead fulfill God’s call to nourish the flock. Seeing What Faithful Shepherding Looks Like Scripture draws a clear picture of leaders who please the Lord: • Feed the flock with sound doctrine (Jeremiah 3:15; John 21:15-17). • Protect from error and danger (Acts 20:28-31). • Model holy living (1 Peter 5:2-3). • Serve sacrificially rather than exploit (Mark 10:42-45). Why the Flock’s Support Matters • Leaders are still human and can grow weary (2 Corinthians 4:7). • A supported shepherd can devote more energy to teaching and care (Acts 6:4). • The whole body thrives when every part does its work (Ephesians 4:16). Practical Ways to Stand with Our Leaders Spiritual Support • Pray continually for wisdom, courage, purity, and joy (Colossians 4:3-4). • Fast periodically on their behalf, asking God to guard them from temptation. • Encourage them with Scripture, notes, and spoken affirmation (Hebrews 3:13). Relational Support • Show respect and esteem “very highly in love” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • Offer hospitality—meals, family time, and genuine friendship that expects nothing in return. • Protect their reputations; refuse gossip and defend truth (Proverbs 17:9). Material Support • Share generously so they can “work hard at preaching and teaching” without financial anxiety (1 Timothy 5:17-18; Galatians 6:6). • Provide for practical needs—childcare, transportation, professional services—so they can focus on ministry. • Maintain church facilities and resources, preventing unnecessary burdens. Ministry Partnership • Volunteer faithfully, carrying part of the workload (Exodus 17:12; Romans 16:3-4). • Seek training and mentoring, growing into roles that extend their reach (2 Timothy 2:2). • Support biblically sound initiatives even when they stretch comfort zones, displaying unity (Philippians 1:27). Accountability in Love • Measure teaching and practice against Scripture, not preferences (Acts 17:11). • Approach concerns directly and respectfully, “speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). • Uphold clear standards for holiness so leaders never drift toward the selfishness condemned in Ezekiel 34:3. Guarding Our Own Hearts • Reject consumer mentality; come to give, not only to receive (Luke 6:38). • Cultivate gratitude for imperfect yet God-appointed shepherds (Hebrews 13:17). • Remember that Christ is the Chief Shepherd; supporting leaders is ultimately devotion to Him (1 Peter 5:4). The Outcome God Promises When shepherds and sheep walk together in these ways, “there will be one flock and one Shepherd” (John 10:16). Leaders fulfill Ezekiel 34:3’s expectations by feeding the flock, and believers help make that possible—so the whole body grows strong, well-nourished, and ready for every good work. |
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