PASTORAL THEOLOGY Part Seven (THE SHEPHERD ROLE OF THE PASTOR):
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THE SHEPHERD ROLE OF THE PASTOR.
The basic meaning of ministry is service, either in the secular or sacred realm. While all of God’s children are His servants, some have been chosen for special ministries as we have stated before. In the old Testament, the priesthood was first established, then prophetic ministry followed.
The New Testament pattern of ministry is a person rather than an office. The Lord Jesus Christ coordinated both the priestly functions and the prophets duty in his reconciliation ministry. He also introduce the idea of shepherding. It is the most comprehensive model of Christian ministry.
THE SHEEP:
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There are striking similarities between the natural temperament and tendencies of these animals and those of their human counterparts {the believers} in the church.
While Christians are highly intelligent and possess expertise in professional and cultural areas; in person and spiritual matters they often demonstrate sheep like weakness and infirmities e.g.
- DEFECTIVE VISION:
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It is estimated that the maximum limit of a sheep’s effective sight is not more than fifteen {15} yards. The sheep suffer inability to recognize enemies at a long range. This is a pitiful picture of the ecclesiastical sheep. Many Christians are helpless victims of the teachers of false doctrine.
When hungry, the sheep will go about to search of food and cannot wait patiently until they are provided with food; even when they scatter to search for food they hardly discern the poisonous food from the good ones. Imagine the fate of Christians when their pastor does not feed them satisfactorily, such, wonder off into deception and false teaching.
- THEY SUFFER ANXIETIES:
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The sheep refuse to lie down unless they are sure of safety. They always face fear and tension. A flock that is restless, always disturbed and never does well. The presence of the shepherd gives them courage. These are also found in Christians, that is why Jesus encourage his flocks not to worry Math 6:25-34 and promise his presence always to assure them of safety. Math 28:20.
The minister should follow the example of Jesus who is the Chief shepherd by taking a loving care of the members of his congregation. Leading them into the word of God to find the green pasture that will feed their hungry soul and allowing them to lie down beside the still water of joy and fellowship with the lord and brethren.
When the members are properly fed like the sheep they will not find it easy to wonder about.
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A shepherd leads, feeds, comforts, corrects, and protects the sheep under his care. Those same responsibilities belong to every church leader. In fact, the word pastor means shepherd.
Thank you for sharing this wonderful message.
FF
Thank sc-n for always coming around. You made tons of bible sense.
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The shepherd look after the flock so that they are well secured from their enemies. Thanks for this great contribution.
Thank you @oppongk for you rich comment
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Great spiritual content of this brother series, thank you for reminding us of the following part:
EC
Quantum blessings brother
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Very interesting and successful what you write. The shepherd must know his sheep well to meet his needs for food and safety. You must also understand what is your responsibility in the care of the herd.
Blessings!
Pr Euclides Villegas
Thank you for coming around. Blessings too.
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