Shepherds of the Flock - Talk Handouts

Paul’s example

− Activity (‘preach’, ‘taught’, ‘declared’, ‘testifying’, ‘preaching’, ‘proclaim’, v20-27)

− Content (‘not hesitated’ v 20, 27)

− Manner (‘humility… tears… testing’ v19)

− Motivation (‘I have not’ v33)

Paul’s command

− Keep watch (v28)

− Made overseers … to shepherd (v28)

− Church of God (v28)

− Savage wolves (v29-30)

Reflections

− Word and relationships

− Leaders and plurality

− Defending and flourishing

Shepherding and God’s plan of salvation

For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls. 1 Peter 2:25

Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat down on them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the centre of the throne will be their shepherd; ‘he will lead them to springs of living water.’ ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’ Revelation 7:16-17

2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. 1 Peter 5:2-4

Recommended Reading

D. A. Carson, The Cross & Christian Ministry : An Exposition of Passages from 1 Corinthians (Leicester: IVP, 1993).

Timothy S. Laniak, Shepherds After My Own Heart: Pastoral Traditions and Leadership in the Bible (Leicester: Apollos, 2006).

John Stott, Calling Christian Leaders: Rediscovering Radical Servant Ministry (IVP, 2021).

Paul David Tripp, Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church (Wheaton, Illinois: Crossway Books, 2020).

Derek Tidball, Skilful Shepherds: Explorations in Pastoral Theology (Leicester: IVP, 1997).

Find out more at acts29.com/europe