2. Introduction In this lesson, we wish to consider shepherds and their flock. To gain a better understanding, let us study a relevant and related Greek word family.

3. Relevant and Related Greek Words The root noun poimēn, translated “shepherd” identifies “(1) one who herds sheep, shepherd, sheep- herder; (2) one who serves as guardian or leader, shepherd, fig. ext. of 1.” The verb poimainō means “(1) to serve as tender of sheep, herd, tend, (lead to) pasture; (2) to watch out for other people, to shepherd, of activity that protects, rules, governs, fosters, fig. ext. of 1; (a) in the sense of lead, guide, or rule; (b) protect, care for, nurture.”

4. Relevant and Related Greek Words The noun poimnē refers to a “flock, esp. of sheep” and in imagery is used “with reference to Jesus’ disciples; to the church and to Jesus as its head.” The noun poimnion identifies “(1) an assemblage of a specific kind of animal, flock, esp. of sheep; (2) a defined group of persons under a leader, flock fig. ext. of 1.”

6. Shepherds and Their Flock Just as there were physical shepherds who pastured their flocks in the fields of Palestine (Luke 2:8-20), so there are spiritual shepherds who oversee the flock of God: Jesus Christ is the Good/Great Shepherd (John 10:11, 14; Heb. 13:20-21). The Apostle Peter, and by extension, his companions, were commanded, “Shepherd My sheep” (John 21:16) Elders must shepherd the local church/flock of God of which they are members (Acts 20:28-32; Eph. 4:11-16; 1 Pet. 5:1-4).

7. Shepherds Offer Provision Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, offers provision (Mark 6:34; Luke 12:31-32; John 10:16). So also must elders (Matt. 9:36-38; Eph. 4:11-16).

8. Shepherds Offer Protection Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, offers protection (Matt. 26:31-32; Mark 14:27-28; John 18:1-9). So also must elders (Acts 20:28-32; cf. Titus 1:7-11).

9. Shepherds Offer Leadership Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, offers leadership (Matt. 2:6; Rev. 12:5; 19:11-16). So also must elders (1 Pet. 5:1-4; cf. Heb. 13:7, 17).

10. Conclusion On that final day, Jesus Christ will judge all mankind, separating the righteous from the wicked (Matt. 25:31- 33, 34, 41). If we are faithful until the end, we will receive a great reward (1 Pet. 5:4; Rev. 7:13-17). If you have never submitted to Christ’s authority, do so today; if you have wandered astray, return to the fold (Matt. 28:18-20; 1 Pet. 2:21-25).