The Shepherd - Part three

We're unpacking some thoughts based upon ideas from Tim Laniak who writes about the primary biblical image of a leader being a shepherd. He make the point that we have three key roles: leading, feeding and protecting those under our care.

The shepherd leads and feeds. But a good shepherd also protects the flock from outside attack and sometimes even from themselves.

The shepherd as protector

A shepherd in Jesus day was well trained in the things that were a threat to the flock he was caring for. He'd have a good idea of what wild animals were around and how they behaved and where they hid. He'd also be good at reading the weather to get his flock out of harms way should a storm come in.




Jesus reminds us of the sheepfold, the stone-walled pen that would protect his sheep, and Jesus himself is the gate through which evil must come. Paul reminds us that we're facing a spiritual battle and our flock are in this midst of it. Jesus prays for us to be safe in this world in his high priestly prayer in John 18. And so as shepherds we too are to be guardians and protectors of those under our care.


For those in teaching roles we need to protect our flock from the lie of legalism and remind them of the freedom of grace that Jesus died to give us. Legalism is one of those enduring threats to the heart of those who follow Jesus. We have an inclination to trust our good actions in stead of Jesus perfect sacrifice.

If we're leading a team we may need to protect the team against division and disunity. All of us struggle with pridefulness, arrogance and obstinacy and we need to gracious in correcting people and drawing them into the unity of the spirit.

If we're caring for peoples hearts, we'll need to protect them against the twin lies of shame and guilt. This world runs on different rules to the freedom and grace of Jesus and we need to protect people from beating themselves up and instead help them revel in the forgiveness that Jesus offers.

To this end the shepherd is vigilant and constantly on the lookout for the safety of the flock, trusting that the great shepherd is looking out too.