Prophecy of Destruction
Lament for the Land
Zechariah 11 begins with a vivid description of destruction coming upon the land. The prophet is told to “open your doors, Lebanon, so that fire may devour your cedars!” (Zechariah 11:1). This opening serves as a metaphorical and literal warning of the coming judgment on the region, including Lebanon, Bashan, and the Jordan Valley, indicating widespread devastation.
The Shepherds and the Flock
The imagery of lament continues with the destruction affecting the shepherds and their flocks (Zechariah 11:3). The loss of pasture and the roaring of young lions symbolize the leaders (shepherds) and the nations (lions) mourning their loss, setting a tone of impending doom and leadership failure.
Two Shepherds: Rejection and Judgement
The Good Shepherd
Zechariah acts out a parable by becoming a shepherd of a flock doomed to slaughter, representing God’s care for His people despite their leaders’ corruption (Zechariah 11:4-6). God instructs Zechariah to shepherd with two staffs named Favor and Union, symbolizing God’s grace and the unity of His people.
The Rejection of the Shepherd
The narrative shifts as Zechariah breaks his two staffs, signifying the breaking of God’s covenant with all the people due to their disobedience and rejection of His ways (Zechariah 11:7-14). The act of breaking the staff of Favor indicates the end of divine protection, and breaking Union foreshadows the division of the kingdom.
The Foolish Shepherd
After the symbolic rejection of the good shepherd, God warns of a foolish shepherd who will not care for the lost, seek the young, heal the injured, or feed the healthy, but will feast on the meat of the choice sheep (Zechariah 11:15-17). This prophecy points to the rise of destructive leaders who will exploit the people.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Zechariah’s role as the shepherd who is rejected by his own people directly foreshadows Christ, who was also rejected by His own (John 1:11). The specific reference to the thirty pieces of silver thrown into the house of the Lord (Zechariah 11:12-13) is explicitly connected to the betrayal of Jesus by Judas (Matthew 27:3-10), highlighting Christ as the true Shepherd who was priced and rejected.
How God Loves the World
This chapter illustrates God’s love through the metaphor of a shepherd who genuinely cares for the well-being of his flock, contrasting with the selfish, foolish shepherd. It demonstrates God’s profound patience and continued provision of opportunities for repentance, despite repeated rejections.
Why This Chapter Still Matters Today
Zechariah 11 remains relevant as it addresses themes of leadership and responsibility. It serves as a warning against the dangers of corrupt leaders and underscores the necessity for righteous stewardship. It also reassures believers of God’s ultimate control and justice, encouraging trust in God’s plan and leadership, rather than human authority. This text calls modern readers to recognize and support leadership that aligns with godly principles of care and integrity, emphasizing the impact of choices in leaders and their alignment with divine will.
Zechariah 11 continues to resonate with those who seek to understand the consequences of rejecting God’s leadership and the hope found in the promise of the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, who redeems and unifies.