Practicing Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG11

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P R A C T I C I N G C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

4. What does Scripture teach about the inevitability of tribulations and trials in the lives of God’s people? In what sense has God designed it so no believer has to face those trials alone? 5. Define the four dimensions in which the pastoral role is fulfilled by Christian shepherds. In what sense are all pastors serving as undershepherds under the authority and Chief Shepherd oversight of our Lord Jesus himself? 6. Why is consistent prayer so important in a viable and growing shepherding ministry? 7. Is it possible to shepherd sheep in the way God demands and not care for them? Explain your answer. 8. What is the role of the Holy Spirit in the life and ministry of the one called to be a shepherd of the Lord? Why do we need the Spirit’s discernment as we seek to care for the people of God? Why must we yield our love up to the Lord for the final outcome in our shepherding activities? 9. How do we help others make sense of the evil in the world, especially when so many terrible things are happening to believers while many unbelievers seem to live immune from similar troubles? 10. Is it okay to be angry at God for some occurrence of evil or difficulty that we face in our lives? Explain your answer. 11. Should we encourage those who have suffered grievous wrong at the hands of others to seek justice and/or vengeance against those who have done evil toward them? At what times should we seek justice for wrongdoing against us?

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This lesson builds on the previous lessons in every way, culminating with our responsibility to become the same kind of leaders that our Lord was and is to us as our Chief Shepherd. As men and women called by the Lord to represent his interests and purposes among his people, we are charged with the high honor to provide care for and seek the well-being and healing of the members of God’s flock, and to do so especially during times of trial and distress. As this will ultimately be the true test of your love for the Lord (i.e., see his interaction with Peter in John 21),

Summary of Key Concepts