So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. (1 Peter 5:1-4 ESV)

Introducing the Shepherds Examining Psalm 23

v. 1, David’s boast… The Lord is MY shepherd We all choose a shepherd, a leader, a master Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness? (Romans 6:16 ESV) My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. (John 10:27 ESV)

Some sheep want to go their own way… After the world After self Instead of after the Lord Today’s shepherds have the duty of bringing Christ to the flock… by example and by teaching With the Lord as MY shepherd “I shall not want”

v. 2, David’s boast… He makes me to lie down Sheep will not lie down in… Fear Friction Disease Pests Hungry or Thirsty The shepherd’s job is to make the flock secure

So they were scattered, because there was no shepherd, and they became food for all the wild beasts. My sheep were scattered; they wandered over all the mountains and on every high hill. My sheep were scattered over all the face of the earth, with none to search or seek for them. (Ezekiel 34:5-6 ESV) Not scattered in fear

Because you push with side and shoulder, and thrust at all the weak with your horns, till you have scattered them abroad, I will rescue my flock; they shall no longer be a prey. And I will judge between sheep and sheep. (Ezekiel 34:21-22 ESV) Not scattered by friction

And I will set up over them one shepherd, my servant David, and he shall feed them: he shall feed them and be their shepherd. (Ezekiel 34:23 ESV) Not hungry and thirsty

v. 2, David’s boast… He makes me to lie down Done with balanced teaching (quiet waters) not by raging rivers The shepherd’s job is to make the flock secure

v. 3, David’s boast… He restores my soul (life) Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God. (Psalm 42:11 ESV) Something is wrong and the shepherd becomes the restorer Guides in paths of righteousness, ie. right-wiseness Good food, pure water

v. 4, tone changes… “YOU” are with me Dangers and trials were of value to the shepherd’s relationship to his sheep. Taught sheep to trust, depend on, and bond with the shepherd Today’s shepherds must exude that same confidence

v. 4, tone changes… “YOU” are with me Rod, used or thrown to Defend sheep Guide sheep back Tap to direct sheep Staff, shepherds crook To rescue Assist Or pull close Today’s shepherds must also be in touch with the sheep, bonding.

v. 4, tone changes… “YOU” prepare a table for me In the presence of enemies Anointed- healed & refreshed Overflowing cup – more than enough Today’s shepherds walk ahead, keep alert for enemies, assist with struggles, refresh, build unity, and point to the Lord to provide more than enough.

v. 4, In summation… because we have such a shepherd Goodness will follow Mercy will follow WILL dwell in the house of the Lord forever Because of our Great Shepherd, today’s shepherds should bring peace, security, confidence, restoration, guidance, safety, foresight, caring and the bond of unity..