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"Thirty pieces of silver"

Text: Zechariah 11:12

THE WORTH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD

The work of the Good Shepherd was undeniably wonderful. Many were healed. Demons were cast out. Great truths were taught. But not everyone appreciated His worth.

“Then I said to them,
‘If it is agreeable to you, give me my wages; and if not, refrain.’
So they weighed out for my wages thirty pieces of silver.”
Zechariah 11:12

1. This was a prophetic story-vision

a) Thus, it must not be taken literally.

b) The Good Shepherd’s request:

i) To be given wages.

ii) Or to reject this request.

2. This story must not be misunderstood

a) The Good Shepherd was not asking to be paid.

b) He was asking whether they understood His worth as a Shepherd.

c) If He was truly considered a good Shepherd, then He must be counted worthy:

i) To lead.

ii) To continue to function as Shepherd.

iii) To be honoured appropriately.

3. “So they weighed out for my wages thirty pieces of silver”

a) The sum of thirty-piece of silver was actually a paltry sum.

b) The wages offered were intended to do the following:

i) To indicate that the work of the Good Shepherd wasn’t worth much.

ii) This was intended to insult the Shepherd who had faithfully served.

iii) It represented the depth of loathing the religious leaders had in their hearts towards the Lord Jesus as the Good Shepherd (Matthew 27:9).