Loving Your Shepherd

^‘Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches’ (Gal 6:6).

‘It is not enough that Pastors be respected, if they are not also loved; for both are necessary to make the doctrine they preach to be fully relished (John Calvin). The Bible is very clear on the responsibility of Christians to honor all leaders (1 Peter 2:13, Romans 13:1). However, it is interesting to note that when it comes to our spiritual leaders the Bible teaches that, ‘the elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching’ (1 Timothy 5:17).

Respecting ministers is very important, but it is even more crucial to love them and ensure that all their needs are met in order for them to have a sound mind and be focused on ministry to the saints. Remember, good shepherds work hard for their flock and even go to the extent of laying down their lives for them if need be (John 10:11). Paul’s conversion was greatly influenced by the selfless prayer Stephen prayed for his murderers of whom Paul was a part (Acts 7:60).

God told Moses that, ‘command Joshua, and encourage him and strengthen him; for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which you will see’ (Deut 3:28). One main lesson here is that, the leader sees the blessings God has in store for the saints, and leads them to posses them. Therefore it is very difficult for you to possess all your blessings without spiritual leadership. Consequently, it is every Christian’s responsibility to love, strengthen and encourage his Christian leader. The importance of Christian leadership cannot be overemphasized. Discussed below, are some of the important roles Christian leaders play.

1.    They protects the sheep spiritually, through prayer and the teaching of God’s word (Acts 20:28). In Mat 9:26 when Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

2.    They receive the vision; plans and purposes of God for the people and then impart the people with that vision (Hab 2:2). Without a vision or clear direction, God’s people perish through fruitless labor. Sharing the vision for it to become the sheep’s personal vision can be as challenging as seeking the face of God to receive the vision.

3.    They equip the saints through the teaching of God’s word. The edification that the saints receive through the teaching of God’s word causes them to be established in the faith. This results in character transformation and prosperity, not forgetting the preparation the flock receives to do the work of the ministry (Eph 4:11-12).

4.    Finally, they feed men with the bread of life to prepare them for eternal life. People cannot believe and be saved if the Good news is not preached (Rom 10:14).

James 3:1 teaches that those who teach the Word of God will be judged more strictly. Considering the crucial role Christian leaders play, and the challenges and accountability that come with those responsibilities; It is your responsibility to love, strengthen and encourage your Christian leaders by giving them all the material, emotional and spiritual support they need. Remember, praying for ministers and taking care of them comes with great blessings.