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

In a real sense, the entire ministry of the bishop gets its cue from the ministry of Jesus Christ as the Chief Shepherd and Bishop of our Souls (cf. 1 Pet. 2.25 For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls; see also 1 Pet. 5.1-4). He is the one who knows his sheep, who leads them out, whom they follow, and who is the authentic head of the flock of God. All others who either function in formal pastoral roles, or who love the people of God in a pastoral way are in fact undershepherds , that is, there is truly only one shepherd and one flock (cf. John 10.16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd). Notwithstanding Jesus’ unique and singular role as the Shepherd of the people of God, he has through his Spirit appointed undershepherds to tend and guard his flock (cf. Acts 20.28 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). The New Testament outlines in a number of texts the centrality of the pastoral care of the people of God. Note this emphasis in the following verses: 1 Tim. 3.2 - Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach. 1 Tim. 5.17 - Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. Titus 1.7 - For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain. Heb. 13.17 - Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you. This entire lesson is on the importance of this ongoing ministry of guardianship, nurture, and feeding of the people of God by leaders who, like Christ, love them, lead them, and care for them.

Could there be any greater privilege?