Foundations of Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG07

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F O U N D A T I O N S O F C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

forced to work another job in order to pastor their flocks. Still, in spite of hardship and sacrifice, these servants poured out their lives for others. What is interesting to note is that most of these pastors who served in this ways were mentored in this role, that is, they learned this art from others who had given the same kind of service for the poor. It is becoming increasingly rare to find those willing to give themselves with this level of selflessness and sacrifice, especially on behalf of congregations who can offer little in terms of financial support. How do we recover this “lost art” of equipping pastors who will care selflessly for congregations which will never be able to afford their full salary, benefits, and perks known in larger churches?

The Christian Leader as Pastor ( Poimenes )

Segment 1: Definition and Overview

Rev. Dr. Don L. Davis

In both the OT and NT, the image of shepherding is given for the leader of God’s people, roeh in Hebrew and poimen in koine Greek, with both meaning “shepherd,” “to shepherd,” and to “provide pastoral care.” The Lord God, rulers and kings, and the coming Messiah are all perceived as shepherds of God’s people. The concept of pastor developed throughout the Church, from the care that all Christians provided until eventually it became a formal role for those individuals who would care for God’s flock. Jesus himself is the prototype for the pastoral ministry, and God call’s and gifts particular individuals to provide this care for the Church. Depending on the government structure of the church, the pastor exercises his care giving responsibility in different ways, but all through the functions of a shepherd , i.e., one who teaches and preaches the Word, administers the sacraments, comforts the bereaved, performs marriages, and equips the body for the work of the ministry. Our objective for this segment, The Christian Leader as Pastor: Definition and Overview , is to enable you to see that: • In both the OT and NT, the image of shepherding is given for the leader of God’s people, roeh in Hebrew and poimen in koine Greek, with both meaning “shepherd,” “to shepherd,” and to “provide pastoral care.”

Summary of Segment 1

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• The Lord God, rulers and kings, and the coming Messiah are all perceived as shepherds of God’s people.