Definition: And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, [are] men, [and] I [am] your God, saith the Lord GOD.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 34:31. It's a really important and slightly mysterious part of the Bible! Here’s what it means in simple terms: “And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, [are] men, [and] I [am] your God.” Let’s unpack that: "Ye my flock..." : This refers to God’s people – those who follow Him and are called by His name. Think of it like a group of sheep being cared for. "...the flock of my pasture..." : Ezekiel was a prophet, and he was giving instructions to a man named Ezekiel. The "pasture" is a metaphor for God's kingdom – a place where He has created us to live in peace and joy. It’s a beautiful, idyllic image. "[are] men..." : This emphasizes that these are human beings , not just animals. It means we are all made in His image. "...and I [am] your God." : This is the core of the verse. It's a declaration of God’s absolute authority and love over humanity. He is the God, and he has chosen to be with us. So, what does it mean practically? It’s essentially saying that God sees us as His flock – a precious group of people under His care. He wants us to be treated with respect, love, and responsibility. He’s acknowledging us as his and placing us under His rule. Why is this important? This verse has a lot of meaning about the relationship between God and humanity. It speaks to: God's Sovereignty: He is in control of everything, including us. Responsibility: We are responsible for our actions and choices because we are His flock. Love & Protection: He loves us so much that He chooses to be with us and protect us. In a nutshell, it's a powerful statement about God’s relationship with humanity – one of deep love, responsibility, and ultimate authority. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? Perhaps you'd like to know: What the "pasture" represents? How this verse relates to the idea of a covenant (a promise)?