How can church leaders implement the shepherding model found in Ezekiel 34:11? Setting the Scene: God’s Own Shepherding Pattern “ ‘For this is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, I Myself will search for My flock and seek them out.’ ” (Ezekiel 34:11) In one concise sentence, the LORD reveals four core movements that define His shepherding: 1. I Myself 2. will search 3. for My flock 4. and seek them out Everything a church leader does in pastoral ministry should mirror these four actions. Step 1: Personal Ownership — “I Myself” • Shepherding is never outsourced. • Leaders accept joyful responsibility for people’s welfare (1 Thessalonians 2:7-8). • Godly oversight is hands-on, not managerial (1 Peter 5:2). Practical ways: – Learn each member’s name, story, and spiritual journey. – Be present at pivotal life moments: births, marriages, funerals, crises. – Model “open-door” accessibility; return calls, messages, and visits promptly. Step 2: Active Pursuit — “Will Search” • Search implies initiative, energy, and perseverance (Luke 15:4-5). • Waiting for people to come is not enough; spiritual leaders go after them. Practical ways: – Maintain an updated directory and routinely check on absentees. – Schedule regular home or coffee visits that are relational, not agenda-driven. – Develop a small-group structure so every believer is under someone’s watchful care (Acts 20:28). Step 3: Specific Focus — “For My Flock” • The flock is God’s, not ours (Psalm 100:3). • Ministry priorities are determined by the flock’s actual needs, not personal preferences. Practical ways: – Conduct spiritual-health assessments: Where are members struggling with doctrine, temptation, or discouragement? – Equip volunteer under-shepherds (deacons, small-group leaders) with Scripture-centered resources. – Address both physical and spiritual welfare, modeling the holistic care of James 2:15-16. Step 4: Persistent Care — “Seek Them Out” • “Seek” pictures continuing activity until the sheep are located and restored (Jeremiah 23:3-4). • Shepherds stay engaged until lost, wounded, or weary sheep are safe. Practical ways: – Hold compassionate but firm restoration meetings with straying believers (Galatians 6:1). – Offer counseling grounded in the Word, backed by prayer and accountability. – Celebrate repentance and growth publicly, reinforcing a culture of grace. Guardrails for Faithful Shepherds • Saturate every action with Scripture; God’s Word is the pasture that nourishes (John 21:15-17). • Lead by example—humility, purity, and sacrificial service (John 10:11). • Measure success by spiritual maturity, not attendance charts (Colossians 1:28-29). The Promised Reward “When the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.” (1 Peter 5:4) By echoing the LORD’s own pattern—personal ownership, active pursuit, focused care, and persistent engagement—church leaders embody Ezekiel 34:11 and offer congregations a living picture of Christ, the perfect Shepherd. |
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