In the very early days of the church, the Apostle Paul provided an understanding of God’s design for the way unique gifts of leadership would function within the organization of the church. The goal of each specific leadership gift focused on “preparing God’s people for works of service” and for the building up of the “body of Christ.”
Among the list were those who were to serve as “pastors and teachers.” The word “pastor” comes from the Latin word “shepherd” and the concept of pastor is often associated with one who would “shepherd the people of God.” This concept finds its roots in the example of Christ, who referred to himself as the “good shepherd” (John 10:11).
Throughout the New Testament there are references to the ministry of caring for God’s people. Jesus instructed Peter in John 21:16 to “take care of my sheep.” In Acts 20:28, Paul calls upon the leaders of the church and tells them that their job is to “watch over all the flock” and to “be shepherds of the church of God.” In 1 Corinthians 9:7, Paul refers to himself as one who “tends a flock.”
Peter provides clear instructions to the elders that they are to serve as “shepherds of God’s flock” serving in such a way that “when the Chief Shepherd appears” they will receive the reward of the “crown of glory.”
In the books of 1 and 2 Timothy, as well as Titus, Paul provides specific instructions to those who serve in the role of pastors (shepherds) and overseers on the importance and method of caring for those in the Church.
The call of Scripture for those in leadership among the people of God continues to give direction to a shepherding ministry. Pastoral care is as relevant today as it was in the days of the Apostles and the need to provide meaningful, personal, compassionate care that shows the love of Jesus is needed as much today as any other time in history. Share your thoughts about the need for pastoral care today.
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