I’ve written recently about the concerns I have that the rising reformed movement among younger evangelicals may, dare I say, emphasize the role of the pastor as preacher at the expense of emphasizing the role of pastor as shepherd. Though I am thankful for the added emphasis to preaching, I am also thankful for books that serve to remind pastors that their role is more than as a hired preacher, the pastor is called to shepherd a people. Enter The Shepherd Leader by Timothy Witmer.
What this book provides is a theological and practical blueprint for how and why to shepherd your people. So many folks talk about closing the backdoor of church membership, Witmer, however, writes about tightening the gaps that exist in our shepherding ministry. Rather than focus on how we can keep members, Witmer encourages pastors and church leaders to focus on how they can best care for the people entrusted to their leadership.
Throughout its history, when a clear biblical understanding of the importance of the office of elder (read pastor and deacon if you prefer) and its shepherding function has been absent or impaired, God’s flock has suffered. On the other hand, when leaders have sought to care for the flock, it has prospered.
Pastors, preach the word and do so with passion and vigor, fully committed to biblical inspiration and authority. Spend time preparing your sermons and pray for God to work powerfully through them. However, do not hide in your office, God has called you to a full ministry of which preaching is only one part. Shepherd the people God has entrusted in your care.
