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.
Numbers 27:17 (KJV)
Context
The book of Numbers records Israel’s journey from Mount Sinai toward the Promised Land. In Numbers 27, the daughters of Zelophehad ask Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the whole congregation for their father’s inheritance because he died without sons. Their request leads to a law that allows daughters to inherit when there are no male heirs.
Later in the same chapter, God tells Moses that he will not enter the Promised Land. Moses then asks God to appoint a successor so that the people will not be left without a leader. Numbers 27:17 is part of that request, describing what the new leader must do for the congregation.
Meaning
The verse uses four parallel phrases to describe the leader’s duty: “go out before them,” “go in before them,” “lead them out,” and “bring them in.” These words cover the whole range of the leader’s work. Going out and going in suggest daily activity, including leading the people in war and bringing them back in peace. The leader is responsible for the people’s safety, direction, and welfare at all times.
The phrase “as sheep which have no shepherd” is a picture of helplessness and danger. Sheep without a shepherd wander, get lost, and face harm. The leader is not a driver but a caretaker who goes ahead of the people, protecting and guiding them. The verse calls the people “the congregation of the LORD,” showing that they belong to God. Therefore, their need for a shepherd is a matter of divine concern, not just a political matter.
Biblical connections
God’s answer to Moses is to appoint Joshua, a man “in whom is the Spirit” (Numbers 27:18). This shows that the chosen leader is equipped by God himself. The shepherd imagery continues in the New Testament. Church elders are told to “shepherd the flock of God” (1 Peter 5:2), and Paul reminds the Ephesian elders to care for the church that Christ obtained with his own blood (Acts 20:28). These passages show that the role of a shepherd-leader remains important for God’s people.
Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of this request. He called himself the Good Shepherd (John 10:11). He went before his disciples, teaching and leading them, and he brought them into the fullness of God’s promises through his death and resurrection. He perfectly embodies the qualities that Moses asked for.
Application
Although Numbers 27:17 speaks directly about Joshua’s appointment, its principles apply to leaders today. A godly leader should set an example in faithfulness, courage, and obedience to God’s commands. Such a leader faces challenges, makes decisions, and guides people through difficult situations. The leader also helps people move toward the purposes God has prepared for them.
Leaders in the church, the family, and the workplace can learn from this verse. They are called to care for those entrusted to them, protect them from spiritual harm, and lead them with humility. The shepherd metaphor reminds every leader that their position is for the good of the flock, not for personal gain.
Reflection
As followers of Christ, we are also called to emulate his shepherding heart. We can rely on his guidance and care for us, and we can extend that care to others. When we lead, we should remember that the people we serve belong to the Lord. Our leadership is a sacred trust, and we are accountable to him for how we shepherd his flock.
