Numbers 27:17

Which may go out before them, and which may go in before them, and which may lead them out, and which may bring them in; that the congregation of the LORD be not as sheep which have no shepherd.

Which may go out {H3318} before {H6440} them, and which may go in {H935} before {H6440} them, and which may lead them out {H3318}, and which may bring them in {H935}; that the congregation {H5712} of the LORD {H3068} be not as sheep {H6629} which have no shepherd {H7462}.

to go out and come in ahead of them, to lead them out and bring them in, so that ADONAI's community will not be like sheep without a shepherd."

who will go out and come in before them, and who will lead them out and bring them in, so that the congregation of the LORD will not be like sheep without a shepherd.โ€

who may go out before them, and who may come in before them, and who may lead them out, and who may bring them in; that the congregation of Jehovah be not as sheep which have no shepherd.

Commentary

Numbers 27:17 captures Moses' profound concern for the Israelite congregation as he nears the end of his life. Having been told he would not enter the Promised Land, Moses, ever the selfless leader, immediately turns his attention not to his own fate, but to the future well-being of the people he had faithfully led for decades.

Context

This verse comes directly after God informs Moses that he will ascend Mount Abarim to view the land, but will then die before crossing into it (Numbers 27:12-14). Instead of lamenting his personal situation, Moses' immediate response is a heartfelt prayer to the Lord for a successor. His prayer in Numbers 27:16 asks for a man "over the congregation," and verse 17 elaborates on the qualities and purpose of such a leader: one who can truly guide and shepherd the vast assembly of Israel.

Key Themes

  • Divine Appointment of Leadership: Moses understands that true leadership for God's people must come from God Himself. He doesn't suggest a human council or a popular vote, but appeals directly to the Lord, the "God of the spirits of all flesh" (Numbers 27:16).
  • The Necessity of Spiritual Guidance: The core message is the vital need for capable leadership to prevent chaos and aimlessness. Without a shepherd, a flock is vulnerable, scattered, and easily lost. This highlights the importance of strong, godly guidance for any community, especially for God's chosen people.
  • The Shepherd Metaphor: The imagery of "sheep which have no shepherd" is a powerful and recurring theme throughout the Bible. It speaks of vulnerability, helplessness, and the potential for dispersion when leadership is absent or inadequate. Leaders are called to care for, protect, and guide their flock.
  • Comprehensive Leadership: The phrase "go out before them, and which may go in before them, and which may lead them out, and which may bring them in" signifies all-encompassing leadership. It implies guidance in daily life, in times of war and peace, and in all movements and decisions of the community.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "go out before them, and which may go in before them" (ื™ึตืฆึตื ืœึดืคึฐื ึตื™ื”ึถื ื•ึฐื™ึธื‘ึนื ืœึดืคึฐื ึตื™ื”ึถื - yetze lifneyhem v'yavo lifneyhem) is an idiom for comprehensive leadership in all aspects of life, including military expeditions, daily activities, and general oversight. It suggests a leader who is fully engaged and visible in guiding the people. The term "shepherd" (ืจึนืขึถื” - ro'eh) in Hebrew conveys not just feeding, but also guarding, guiding, and nurturing, emphasizing the deep responsibility and care required of a leader.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Pray for Leaders: Moses' example teaches us the importance of earnestly praying for those in leadership positions, whether in the church, community, or government. We should ask God to raise up and equip faithful leaders who will guide wisely and selflessly.
  • Value Godly Leadership: Recognize the immense value of spiritual leaders who genuinely care for the flock, guiding them in truth and righteousness. A church or community without such leadership can easily become aimless or fall prey to false teachings.
  • The 'Shepherd' Heart: For those in positions of influence, this verse serves as a reminder of the shepherd's responsibility: to lead with care, protection, and a deep concern for the well-being of those entrusted to them, rather than for personal gain or glory.
  • God's Provision: Just as God provided Joshua (Numbers 27:18-23) to succeed Moses, He continues to provide leaders for His people. Ultimately, Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd who perfectly cares for His flock, and through Him, He raises up undershepherds to serve.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Ezekiel 34:5 (8 votes)

    And they were scattered, because [there is] no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were scattered.

  • Mark 6:34 (6 votes)

    And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things.

  • 1 Kings 22:17 (6 votes)

    And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep that have not a shepherd: and the LORD said, These have no master: let them return every man to his house in peace.

  • Matthew 9:36 (5 votes)

    But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.

  • Zechariah 10:2 (5 votes)

    For the idols have spoken vanity, and the diviners have seen a lie, and have told false dreams; they comfort in vain: therefore they went their way as a flock, they were troubled, because [there was] no shepherd.

  • Deuteronomy 31:2 (5 votes)

    And he said unto them, I [am] an hundred and twenty years old this day; I can no more go out and come in: also the LORD hath said unto me, Thou shalt not go over this Jordan.

  • 2 Chronicles 1:10 (5 votes)

    Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, [that is so] great?