“The Shepherd And The Flock!”

“The Shepherd And The Flock!”(Heb.13:17-21).
Today we round up the week of teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ as the good shepherd and also about what is expected of God’s shepherds and God’s flock.
“Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you…”
??This is one of the passages of Scriptures cherished by despots and dictators. And they take delight in reminding those under them to it. Respect for authority, ordeliness and discipline in the Church is taught all through the New Testament.
However, apostolic authority should be constructive and not destructive. The Lord gives authority so that we use it to build up, not to pull down(Cf.II Cor.10:8). Authority is given to build the flock up and not tear them down(II Cor.13:10).
The authority which the master gives the shepherd is to guide and guard the flock; ensuring their wellbeing and security. The shepherd does not use his authority to beat the flock and scatter them. Not at all!
This explains why the instruction to obey and submit to the leaders is concluded with, “May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in you what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”
This long benediction reminds us that the great Shepherd laid down his life to save us the sheep. It is also a prayer for God, who is peace incarnate to equip us “with everything good for doing his will,” and he should work in us “what is pleasing to him.”
And his will is that we should tend his sheep and feed his flock. What is pleasing to him is that we should search for the lost sheep that they too can become part of the flock.
Servanthood leadership is what the Great shepherd was; and that is what is expected of his shepherds. In the same way, obedience and submission is what is required of the sheep, just like the master, who like a lamb was led to the slaughter and he opened not his mouth.
My friend, are you a leader of the flock? Then show love and concern for the flock! Are you one who is being led? Then be obedient and submissive!
Weekend prayer: LORD, equip me with everything good for doing your will and work in me what is pleasing to you. Amen!
Have a blessed weekend! Peace be with you!
Rev Babila Fochang.