Foundations of Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG07

1 3 0 /

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

6. How have modern views and models of management deeply impacted the way in which many churches have come to understand the pastoral ministry? Have these changes been healthy for the Church? Why or why not? 7. According to 1 Peter 5.1-4, what are the specific duties God requires for elders who are called to shepherd God’s flock? How may these instructions be applied today specifically to shepherding small, poor congregations in the city? 8. What are the specific promises given to those who fulfill the high calling of shepherding the flock of God with integrity and excellence? This lesson focuses upon the nature and meaning of the pastorate, that duty to shepherd the flock of God. The need for godly, dedicated, and well-equipped pastors is as great today as any time in the past, and perhaps even more necessary in urban communities which, for whatever reason, do not attract many who are willing to come and nurture, protect, and lead the people of God there. Review these foundational truths, making certain that you have a good grasp of the content of the statements, as well as their biblical support. 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 can be traced historically from the apostolic admonitions to provide care to one another as members of God’s people in the Church, to the more formal notions of this care being delegated to specific individuals charged with shepherding the body as members of the clergy, or the formal office of the pastorate . Jesus himself is the prototype for the pastoral ministry, whose life demonstrated the character of the kind of feeding, love, and care God’s flock requires. The Father himself calls and endows his pastors with special authority and gifts to provide this care for the Church.

Summary of Key Concepts

3