GOD’S MANDATE FOR TRUE PASTORS By Major. Frank Materu
Introduction
God calls His shepherds to care for, protect, and nurture His flock with diligence and love. Shepherding is not just a task;
it is a divine calling that demands commitment, sacrifice, and alignment with God's purpose. This message highlights the responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of shepherding, as well as a call to raise faithful shepherds in a generation marred by self-interest and deception.
Key Scripture:
"Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve." (1 Peter 5:2)
1. The Call to Shepherd God's Flock
Shepherding is not optional for those God has called—it is a sacred responsibility. God entrusts His flock to shepherds to care for them, guide them in righteousness, and protect them from harm. This task requires vigilance and a heart full of love for God and His people.
Key Scripture:
"Feed my sheep." (John 21:17)
"I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding." (Jeremiah 3:15)
Action Points:
- Embrace the responsibility of shepherding with humility and zeal.
- Be a guardian who shields the flock from spiritual and moral dangers.
- Ensure the flock is nourished with God’s Word, the bread of life.
2. Protect and Correct with Love
A true shepherd does not shy away from rebuking and correcting sin. Love compels shepherds to guide God’s people toward repentance and alignment with His will.
Correction is an act of love that strengthens the flock.
Key Scripture:
"Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent." (Revelation 3:19)
"Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction." (2 Timothy 4:2)
Action Points:
- Guide the flock gently but firmly back to God’s ways.
- Correct with love, aiming to build up rather than condemn.
- Lead by example, demonstrating the righteousness God desires.
3. Beware of Self-Interest and Deception
In a generation where many shepherds serve for personal gain, God calls His true shepherds to purity of heart and purpose.
False shepherds cover God’s people with lies, indulgence, and distractions, leading them away from the truth.
Key Scripture:
"Woe to the shepherds who only take care of themselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock?" (Ezekiel 34:2)
"For the leaders of this people cause them to err, and those who are led by them are destroyed." (Isaiah 9:16)
Action Points:
- Guard against greed, pride, and self-serving motives.
- Prioritize God’s will over human approval.
- Reject false teachings and lead the flock in truth and integrity.
4. Shepherding Requires Total Surrender
A faithful shepherd is not driven by comfort or convenience but by a deep love for God and His people. Shepherding requires complete devotion to the Lord and His mission, even when it is difficult.
Key Scripture:
"Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me." (Luke 9:23)
"Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant." (Matthew 20:26)
Action Points:
- Serve God’s people with humility, not for personal recognition.
- Persevere through hardships, knowing that your work pleases God.
- Trust God’s provision and direction in fulfilling your calling.
5. Shepherds Must Spread God’s Truth
The mandate to shepherd includes feeding God’s people with His truth. True shepherds reject the comfort of falsehood and boldly proclaim the Word of God, leading others to spiritual maturity.
Key Scripture:
"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor." (Luke 4:18)
"Teach them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:20)
Action Points:
- Share God’s Word faithfully and without compromise.
- Equip the flock to discern truth from error.
- Lead by teaching and living out God’s principles daily.
6. The Reward of Faithful Shepherding
God rewards those who shepherd His flock with diligence and love. The work may be challenging, but the eternal rewards far outweigh the sacrifices.
Key Scripture:
"And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away." (1 Peter 5:4)
"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things." (Matthew 25:23)
Action Points:
- Stay faithful, knowing that God sees and rewards your labor.
- Rejoice in the growth and transformation of the flock.
- Look forward to the eternal crown promised to those who serve faithfully.
Conclusion
The call to shepherd God’s flock is sacred, demanding love, diligence, and unwavering faithfulness.
In an age of spiritual deception and self-centeredness, God is raising shepherds who will lead His people in truth, righteousness, and love.
As shepherds, we are stewards of God’s people, entrusted with their spiritual well-being. Let us embrace this calling with joy and commitment, knowing that our labor is not in vain.
By feeding, protecting, and guiding the flock, we fulfill God’s will and demonstrate our love for Him.
May God equip and strengthen His shepherds to serve faithfully and prepare His people for His glory. "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care." (1 Peter 5:2)
