Read Acts 20:28-31. It will only take you a minute or so. But it will inform your leadership for today, and for days to come.
In Acts 20, Paul is on his way back to Jerusalem, not knowing what trials await him there. He takes time during his journey to meet with the house church leaders of Ephesus. It would not be a stretch to surmise that this group of leaders and churches were some of the most dear to Paul. He spent more time ministering in Ephesus than anywhere else during his missionary journeys. Paul exhorts these spiritual leaders with two commands, and he does so against the rich backdrop of the metaphor of a “shepherd.” Of all the metaphors in Scripture that can be attributed to leadership, the shepherd imagery is the most dominant, and possibly the most informing as to what a spiritual leader is to do.
Paul uses four terms in this passage that provide us with shepherding language: flock, overseer, to care, and fierce wolves. The two commands that Paul uses are “Pay careful attention!” and “Be alert!” In following the shepherd metaphor in all of Scripture towards spiritual leadership, there are three primary functions that a shepherd must accomplish: guide, provide, and protect. Sheep are feeble and vulnerable. They must be led to safe pasture. They are certainly open to attack. This passage speaks specifically to the shepherding role of protection.
Paul tells these trusted leaders to pay attention to themselves first, and to all of the flock. The threat of false teachers, portrayed as fierce wolves, are a near reality, both outside the church and inside the church. Therefore, these leaders are to be ever vigilant, because of the value of the “flock” to God who secured their redemption through the blood of Christ. This is a clear part of their calling as God’s overseers, God’s shepherds, for these fledgling congregations.
What can we learn as 21st century spiritual leaders?
Pay continual attention to yourself as a spiritual leader. Exercise self leadership. Pay attention to your own doctrinal foundation and spiritual vibrancy. You cannot expect others to live out what you are not. Never forget that you are a sheep too.
Pay continual attention to those entrusted to your care. There is no shortage of leaders and teachers today who distort the gospel of Christ and place well intentioned people on a path to spiritual destruction. Keep a pure gospel ever in front of them. Teach them doctrine. Disciple them. In doing so you will protect them from the doctrine of “wolves.”
Remember your calling. It is the Holy Spirit who placed you into the position of spiritual leadership. That is a high calling and should be taken seriously every day. He called you, and He will sustain you as you daily depend upon Him.
Remember whose they are. The passage tells us in no uncertain terms that this is God’s church, paid for by the blood of Christ. We do His bidding as under-shepherds, and not our own. And don’t forget, as Paul reminded these leaders, we always minister on the shoulders of others who have gone before us. We have a sacred trust.
Lead well!
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