LEADERS NEED TO LEARN HOW TO FOLLOW THE PATTERN OF JESUS
YOU HAVE BEEN CHOSEN Jesus said “Feed my sheep”(John 21:15-17).
WRITTEN BY SHIRLEY RHODES
Our Church leaders are Chosen Leaders, handpicked by God and called to suit up and go into themission field on their assigned task to shepherd and guide, and then placed in the unique position to make defining decisions and choices that can have a profound impact on a few or many. Our leaders in the church are called and expected to keep diligent watch over the flock. That is the pattern and designexpected when one accepts their calling knowing it comes with incredible responsibility.
Placed in their care are people who bring many loads of heavy burdens, looking for a way to find peace and joy as they are about this earthly journey. People from all walks of life seeking hope, lost, weary and tired wanting rest, a release from those things that keeps them in bondage.
Our leaders are therefore placed in position to minister to those souls as directed by the Holy Spirit, knowing they hold very fragile children in their hands. They are now given the authority through Christ to shape and mold lives for the kingdom of God, to feed the flock.
Remember, Jesus and how he was crucified outside the city gates–where he poured out the sacrificial blood that was brought to God’s alter to cleanse his people. His sacrifice is a reminder to our leaders as to their purpose and calling, who must walk in obedience, faith and be examples of godliness as he accepts the torch to carry out his mission as assigned. The mission of kingdom building is not one to be taken lightly or for granted because souls are at risk.
Our Leaders are to be visible and able to relate to the needs of their followers, meaning that in order to accomplish their assigned mission they should follow the pattern of Jesus. Scripture puts it this way; let’s go outside, where Jesus is, where the action is–not trying to be privileged insiders, but taking ourShare in the abuse of Jesus. This “insider world” is not our home. We have eyes peeled for the Cityabout to come. Let’s take our place outside with Jesus, no longer pouring out sacrificial blood of animals but pouring out praises from our lips to God in Jesus’ name (Hebrews 13:13-15, MGS).
We as seekers of peace and righteousness are to be responsive to pastoral leaders, listen to their counsel because they should be alert to the condition of our lives and work under the strict supervisionof God. We are to contribute to the joy of their leadership, not drudgery; we are to pray for them that they be diligent in their assigned mission.
Our Leaders are accountable to God and its plain in Gods’ Word the responsibility expected of them. God says,” My sheep were scattered because they were without a shepherd and they became prey when they were scattered; I am against the shepherds; and I will require my flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock”. (Ezekiel: 34).
After Jesus had risen from the dead and before his ascension as he gave final instructions to his disciples: Jesus asked Peter, “Simon, son of Jonas, do you love me more than these”, three times. When he responded “Yes”, Jesus said, “Feed my sheep”(John 21:15-17). This is a reminder to our Leaders, don’t take your calling or position lightly. YOU HAVE BEEN CALLED, CHOSEN.
