THE MINISTRY OF PASTORING (3)
We have established in the 2 previous blogs that the heart and ministry of the Pastor is clearly seen in the work of a shepherd.
I am going to list around 30 statements that should be self explanatory, I trust you see these things in your Pastor, and that if you are a Pastor you know they are developing in you, and if they aren’t talk to your Mentor to see they are developed so you can be a Biblical and effective Shepherd.
The Shepherd is a WATCHMAN
The Shepherd is a GUARD
The Shepherd is a GUIDE
The Shepherd is a PHYSCIAN
The Shepherd is a DIETITIAN
The Shepherd is a SAVIOUR (small s)
The Shepherd is a FEEDER of the sheep
The Shepherd is a LOVER of the sheep
The Shepherd is an ORGANIZER
The Shepherd is a PLANNER
The Shepherd is a SERVANT
The Shepherd is a FRIEND
The sheep recognise the Shepherd’s VOICE
The Shepherd will be SENSITIVE to the sheep
The Shepherd calls the sheep by name.
The Shepherd will lead the sheep into fresh pastures
The Shepherd goes before the sheep and leads
The Shepherd will be willing to lay down his life for the sheep
The Shepherd will stay with the sheep when he sees the wolf coming
The Shepherd will recognise he is an under-shepherd
The Shepherd will discern between bleating and murmuring
The Shepherd will NOT lord over the flock
The Shepherd will NOT drive the flock
The Shepherd will carry the lambs when needed.
I could add Scriptures to each of these aspects, if you need clarification ask me, or talk to your Mentor.
Each of the above is a blog (sermon) in its own right. I trust my readers clearly understand what the heart of the Shepherd is all about,
IT SURE IS A LOT MORE THAN PREACHING !!!!!!
I have not written these blogs to criticise, but to encourage and sure challenge those who believe they are called to be a Shepherd, do not limit your understanding or function to what you see in others, be open to let the Holy Spirit broaden your thinking and heart towards the sheep.
Although I have written before regarding BOSKO ministry it is important I include it in this series, so that will be blog (4).
