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

charged with shepherding the body as members of the clergy, or the formal office of the pastorate.

5. How and in what specific ways is our Lord Jesus himself the prototype for the pastoral ministry–how did his life, teaching, ministry, and death reveal the character of the kind of feeding, love, and care God’s flock requires? 6. Are pastors called by God, and endowed by him in their roles, authority, and gifts to provide this care for the church, or are they also equipped for ministry by others? Explain your answer. 7. What are the three kinds of government structures of the church that today’s pastors exercise in their pastoral roles today. Based on what you know of these structures, which seems to fit best with the role of pastoral care of a congregation’s members? Explain your answer. 8. List out some of the major functions that a godly pastor must accomplish in order to shepherd a local congregation. Of these various functions and duties, which do you believe are the most important for the pastorate?

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The Christian Leader as Pastor ( Poimenes )

Segment 2: Models, Training, and Practice

Rev. Dr. Don L. Davis

The Word of God provides three clear models and analogies of what a pastor does as care giver to the people of God as his flock. The pastor is a nurturer who ensures that God’s people receive proper nourishment, feeding, tending, and care. Furthermore, the pastor is a protector and guardian who guards the people of God against any predators or situations which would seek to harm or destroy them. Finally, the pastor is a leader called to go before the people of God and lead them into the fullness of the will of God for their individual and corporate lives. More than ever before the urban church needs pastors who will nourish, protect, and lead urban disciples of Christ to mature in Christ and give witness to the Kingdom of God in the city. God makes unequivocal promises to those who faithfully fulfill their work of shepherding the flock of God–they will receive the unfading crown of glory when the Chief Shepherd appears at the Second Coming.

Summary of Segment 2