The concept of shepherding is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, serving as a metaphor for leadership, guidance, and care. The role of a shepherd is not merely a pastoral duty but a divine calling that reflects God's own relationship with His people. This entry explores the biblical foundation and significance of the call to be shepherds, drawing from various scriptural references.

Old Testament Foundations

The imagery of shepherding is prevalent throughout the Old Testament, where it is often used to describe the relationship between God and Israel. One of the earliest references is found in Genesis 48:15, where Jacob blesses Joseph and acknowledges God as "the God who has been my shepherd all my life to this day" . This establishes the precedent of God as the ultimate Shepherd.

Moses, a central figure in the Old Testament, was called from shepherding flocks to shepherding the people of Israel. In Exodus 3:1, Moses is tending the flock of Jethro when God calls him from the burning bush, signifying a transition from physical shepherding to spiritual leadership. Similarly, David, who began as a shepherd boy, was chosen by God to be king over Israel. In Psalm 78:70-72, it is written, "He chose David His servant and took him from the sheepfolds; from tending the ewes He brought him to be shepherd of His people Jacob, of Israel His inheritance. So David shepherded them with integrity of heart and guided them with skillful hands" .

Prophetic Literature

The prophets frequently use the shepherd motif to critique the leaders of Israel and to promise future restoration. In Ezekiel 34, God condemns the shepherds of Israel for their failure to care for the flock, declaring, "Woe to the shepherds of Israel, who only feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flock?" (Ezekiel 34:2). God promises to rescue His flock and appoint a new shepherd, a prophecy that Christians interpret as pointing to the coming of the Messiah.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is revealed as the Good Shepherd, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies. In John 10:11, Jesus declares, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep" . This self-identification emphasizes the sacrificial nature of true shepherding, contrasting with the hireling who abandons the sheep in times of danger.

The apostle Peter, in his first epistle, exhorts church leaders to shepherd the flock of God willingly and eagerly, not for personal gain but as examples to the flock (1 Peter 5:2-3). This call to shepherding is not limited to pastoral roles but extends to all forms of Christian leadership, emphasizing servanthood and responsibility.

The Role of Shepherds in the Church

The early church adopted the shepherding model as a framework for leadership. Elders and overseers are often referred to as shepherds, tasked with the spiritual care and guidance of the congregation. In Acts 20:28, Paul instructs the Ephesian elders, "Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood" .

The pastoral epistles further outline the qualifications and duties of church leaders, underscoring the importance of character, teaching, and oversight. The call to be shepherds is a call to embody Christ-like leadership, marked by humility, compassion, and a commitment to the well-being of the flock.

Conclusion

The call to be shepherds is a profound biblical theme that transcends cultural and historical contexts. It is a divine mandate that reflects God's own shepherding heart and serves as a model for all who are entrusted with leadership in the Christian community.