What does it mean to be a "shepherd" in your local church context? Anchored in Scripture: 1 Peter 5:2-4 “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but because it is God’s will; not out of greed, but eagerly; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.” Why the Bible Chooses the Shepherd Image • A shepherd’s life revolves around the flock; so does a church leader’s life around God’s people. • Sheep are vulnerable—so are believers in a hostile world (Acts 20:29-30). • The shepherd’s tools—rod, staff, voice—mirror the Word, discipline, and encouragement entrusted to church leaders (Psalm 23:4; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). The Shepherd’s Heart • Love: “The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” (John 10:11) • Eagerness, not obligation—ministry is a privilege. • Humility—no hint of lording it over others (Matthew 20:25-28). Core Responsibilities in a Local Church Feed • Provide steady, clear exposition of Scripture (Jeremiah 3:15). • Ensure every ministry—youth, small groups, outreach—centers on the Word. Guide • Model godly decision-making (Hebrews 13:7). • Offer counsel shaped by biblical convictions, not cultural trends (Proverbs 11:14). Protect • Guard doctrine: “Hold firmly to the trustworthy message.” (Titus 1:9) • Confront false teaching promptly (Acts 20:28-31). • Watch for straying sheep; pursue them in love (Luke 15:4-7). Care • Pray faithfully for the congregation (Colossians 4:12). • Visit the sick, comfort the grieving, celebrate joys (James 5:14). • Foster unity, resolving conflicts by Scripture (Ephesians 4:3). Character Qualifications • Above reproach, faithful in marriage, self-controlled, hospitable, gentle, not a lover of money (1 Timothy 3:1-7). • Proven in the home—leadership begins with family. • Mature in the faith, yet continually growing (2 Peter 3:18). Practical Outworking in Today’s Church • Team Shepherding: plurality of elders spreads the load and models mutual submission. • Intentional Discipleship: structured pathways for new believers, mentoring relationships. • Visible Availability: approachable before and after services, responding promptly to needs. • Structured Accountability: regular elder meetings, financial transparency, adherence to discipline processes (Matthew 18:15-17). Encouragements and Warnings • Reward: an unfading crown awaits faithful shepherds (1 Peter 5:4). • Warning: careless leaders face stern judgment (Ezekiel 34:2-10; James 3:1). • Strength: “The God of peace… equip you in every good thing to do His will.” (Hebrews 13:20-21) Fixing Our Eyes on the Chief Shepherd • Jesus embodies perfect shepherding—know His voice, mimic His ways. • Depend on His grace; human strength fails, His never does (2 Corinthians 12:9). • Remember the flock is His, not ours: “You are not your own; you were bought at a price.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). |
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