The document discusses the role of spiritual shepherds or elders based on the biblical metaphor of a shepherd. It notes that shepherds go before and lead the sheep, seek out good pasture for the sheep, and take initiative to care for the sheep. Spiritual shepherds must similarly lead people by acting toward a vision, as willing shepherds who teach others to fill their role, guiding people as a shepherd guides sheep.

1. A Shepherd Leads the SheepA Series on the Eldership

2. LeadershipLeadership is the act of guiding someone or something.Leadership is not born but made.“A leader is a dealer in hope.” – Napoleon Bonaparte

3. A Shepherd Leads the SheepA shepherd goes before and leads them.(Psalm 77.20; 78.52; 80.1)A shepherd seeks out good pasture for them.(1 Chronicles 4.39-41; Psalms 23.2)

4. A Shepherd Leads the SheepThe shepherd will take the initiative to care for the sheep.(Isaiah 40.11, Ezekiel 34.13-16)The shepherd secures pasture for the sheep. (1 Chronicles 4.39-41)

5. A Shepherd Leads the SheepSpiritual shepherds must lead!Leading involves acting toward the vision and purpose with the followers. (2 Timothy 2.1-4)

6. A Shepherd Leads the SheepSpiritual shepherds must lead the sheep as a shepherd.People are searching and in need of leadership. (Matthew 9.36)

7. A Shepherd Leads the SheepSpiritual shepherds must lead as willing shepherds.(1 Peter 5.3)

8. A Shepherd Leads the SheepSpiritual shepherds must lead as willing shepherds and bring up others to fill their shoes.“Able to teach” (1 Timothy 3.2)Leading his family (1 Timothy 3.4-5; Titus 1.6)

9. A Shepherd Leads the SheepA Series on the Eldership