“Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers-- not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”

 

 The task of a Shepherd is fourfold as explained in Peter’s letter.

To feed the sheep. Sheep need feeding. People need to be continually reminded what the Bible says and how to apply it in their lives. That is how people stay spiritually alive and growing. The food for the believer is God's Word, not our opinions.  There are many churches whose leaders will give you all the latest political information and what you should do for your community. There are others who will take significant philosophical ideas of the day and promote them. Others will emphasis the psychological principles and therapeutic counseling principles to help us adjust to the pressures and stresses of this life, but who will tell people God's truth? If it isn’t in the homes and in the church, where will it come from?  Jesus said, "You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” He said, "I am the way the truth and the life no man comes unto the father but by me." The only way to God is faith in Jesus Christ and yielding ourselves to Him. By introducing the Word of God I found those whom God is prompting start asking questions and the door is open for more spiritual conversations.

A pastor is also to protect the flock.  The shepherd had to protect the sheep from thieves. Likewise, a pastor must protect God's people from those who want to spoil the flock. We have seen evidence of that with a number of TV ministers. You see on the news horrible reports of ministers that misuse their office by abusing parishioners and children. Sometimes the media has a way of centering in on the unethical and immoral ministers, but I can show you a 1,000 who devote their service whole hardily to the Lord and their people.

A Pastor is to love his people.  The faithful shepherd not only feeds and protects his flock, but loves them. He wants what is best for them because he cares for them. He makes sure they are healthy; he would check for snakes, pits, poisonous plants.  Some pastors today are interested only in crowds for what the crowds can do for him. They have little time for individuals.  Jesus took time for those who had needs. It is a godly pastor that cares.

A pastor is to lead them. That is what an overseer is. One is called and responsible for helping them find pasture, health, and strength by leading them to maturity in Christ. “Teaching them to obey all things whatsoever I have command you.” That is part of the great commission. Helping them use their gifts together for the strengthening of the body of Christ for the glory of God.

Application:  Even though these qualities are directed toward pastors, how would life be different if this is how parents and employers fulfilled their tasks?

Prayer:   Lord, be with our pastors and teachers of Your Word, that they might handle the Word of God correctly and teach it in the purity of Your Word.