An Authentic Calling: Representing Christ and His Kingdom through the Church

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An Authent i c Ca l l i ng: Represent i ng Chr i s t and Hi s Ki ngdom through the Chur ch

c. To protect and shepherd the flock from danger and predators, Acts 20.28 (ESV) – Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the Church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. d. To shepherd and be examples to the flock, 1 Pet. 5.1-4 (ESV) – So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: [2] shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; [3] not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. [4] And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

e. To equip the saints for the work of the ministry, Eph. 4.11-17

2. Checklist for those seeking to discern the authenticity of your inward burden and sense of special call

a. Am I saved – Have I repented and believed the Gospel regarding the life God offers through the shed blood and resurrection of Christ? 1 Tim. 1.12-16

b. Do I love the Lord and the people of God? John 21.12-17 – “Do you love Me? Feed my lambs!”

c. Do I possess spiritual gifts that allow me to lead, teach, and shepherd, and am I using those gifts for the upbuilding of God’s people? 2 Cor. 8.22