In 1 Peter 5:2, Peter charges leaders of local churches to “shepherd the flock of God.” What does that involve? How do leaders shepherd God’s flock?

The Holy Spirit uses a variety of terms to describe these leaders.

  • Overseer – this is a manager and superintendent. This term is synonymous with “bishop” (1 Timothy 3:1).
  • Elder – this is a man viewed as spiritually seasoned and mature.
  • Shepherd – this is a man who pastors and tends to sheep (Ephesians 4:11).

Sadly, many have a distorted view of the work of shepherds. Many see them solely as decision-makers and men of authority. Let’s consider a few critical works of shepherds.

Watch

  • Shepherds watch out for and protect sheep (Acts 20:28-31; Hebrews 13:17; Acts 20:28; 1 Samuel 17:36). They care for and defend sheep.
  • Sheep needed to be protected from wolves (false teachers). The wolves can attack the sheep from within and from without.
  • The wolves are trying to steal and lead God’s sheep astray.

Feed

  • Shepherds are responsible for ensuring that the flock is constantly fed the word of God.
  • This is why we offer SBS’s, Bible classes, gospel meetings, Bible reading schedules, and other teaching venues.
  • All these things are provided to feed this flock.

Lead

  • Shepherds are to lead like the Chief Shepherd (John 10:1-15).
    • Jesus leads the flock (John 10:3).
    • Jesus goes before the flock (John 10:4).
    • Jesus provides pasture for the flock (John 10:9).
    • Jesus blesses the flock (John 10:10).
    • Jesus sacrifices for the flock (John 10:11).
    • Jesus protects the flock (John 10:12).
    • Jesus cares for the flock (John 10:13).
    • Jesus knows the flock (John 10:14).
    • Jesus serves the flock (John 10:15).
  • All these things are necessary to build trust and connect with the sheep!

Seek

  • Shepherds are to go after lost sheep (Luke 15:4-7).
  • They are to value every flock member and use all their resources to go after those who wander away from the fold.
  • They do their best to ensure all the sheep are safe and secure.

Account For

  • The shepherds in Israel had to give an account for their bad leadership (Ezekiel 34:1-10).
  • Shepherds in local churches will also give an account to God (Hebrews 13:17).
  • Their work is a huge responsibility because it involves watching over precious souls.

What does the flock need to do?

  • The flock must submit to the shepherds (Hebrews 13:17).
  • The flock must support the shepherds.
  • The flock must listen to the shepherds.
  • The flock must seek to know the shepherds (John 10:14).
  • The flock must pray for the shepherds.
  • The flock must be gracious to the shepherds.

Conclusion:

Are you in the flock of the Chief Shepherd?