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?