Shepherding Leadership: Serving Others in Christ's Name
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound calling of leadership within the Christian faith, as outlined in 1 Peter 5:1-5. We delved into the essence of shepherding, drawing parallels between the role of a shepherd and the responsibilities of leaders in the church and beyond. The metaphor of the shepherd, though culturally distant for many of us today, remains a powerful illustration of guidance, protection, and care. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, exemplifies the ultimate model of leadership, one that is rooted in humility, service, and the elevation of His name above all else.
We discussed how Peter's instructions to the elders are not limited to church leaders but extend to anyone in a position of influence. The call is to lead not for personal gain but to elevate Jesus's name. This involves exercising oversight, not out of compulsion but willingly, and serving as examples rather than domineering over others. The heart of leadership, as demonstrated by Jesus, is one of kenosis—emptying oneself for the sake of others, pointing them to the Good Shepherd.
We also reflected on the nature of sheep, recognizing our own tendencies to lack direction, be defenseless, and wander. In acknowledging our sheep-like nature, we see our need for a shepherd who guides, protects, and seeks us out when we stray. Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, not only cares for us but also raises up under-shepherds to lead His flock. These leaders are called to reflect Christ's character, serving with humility and pointing others to the eternal hope found in Him.
As we move forward, the challenge is to embody this shepherding spirit in whatever roles we find ourselves. Whether as parents, colleagues, or community members, we are invited to lead with the heart of Jesus, prioritizing His name above our own and serving others with joy and eagerness. This is the essence of Christian leadership—lifting up the name of Jesus and inviting others into the abundant life He offers.
Key Takeaways:
- Leadership as Service: True leadership in the Christian context is about serving others and pointing them to Jesus, not about personal gain or power. This involves a posture of humility and a willingness to empty oneself for the sake of others, reflecting the heart of the Good Shepherd. [05:34]
- The Role of Oversight: Leaders are called to exercise oversight, helping others see beyond their immediate circumstances to the greater purposes of God. This requires a community of believers who can provide guidance and clarity, reminding us of God's desires when we are blinded by our own perspectives. [24:36]
- Eagerness Over Obligation: Serving and leading should stem from a place of eagerness and joy, not compulsion or obligation. Jesus models this by pursuing us with joy, and we are invited to share that same heart as we lead others, rejoicing in the opportunity to elevate His name. [28:35]
- Humility in Leadership: To truly reflect Jesus, leaders must clothe themselves in humility, recognizing that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. This means being willing to lower our own status to lift up the name of Jesus, seeking His exaltation above our own. [38:57]
- The Eternal Perspective: Elevating Jesus's name offers eternal recognition of His love, far surpassing any temporary human approval. As we lead, we are called to focus on the eternal impact of our actions, pointing others to the everlasting hope found in Christ. [40:08]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[02:19] - Introduction to the Series
[05:34] - Called to Elevate Jesus
[07:18] - The Good Shepherd
[08:39] - Old Testament Shepherd Imagery
[11:08] - Sheepish Tendencies
[13:38] - The Need for a Shepherd
[14:47] - Role of Under Shepherds
[16:12] - Elevating Jesus in Leadership
[18:30] - Feeding the Sheep
[21:04] - Jesus's Interactions
[23:12] - Exercising Oversight
[24:36] - Clarity and Guidance
[25:30] - Community and Oversight
[28:35] - Eagerness Over Obligation
[31:29] - Joy in Serving
[33:51] - Avoiding Domineering Leadership
[36:34] - Jesus's Example of Service
[38:57] - Humility in Leadership
[40:08] - Eternal Perspective
[41:34] - Kenosis and Leadership
[42:24] - Invitation to Follow the Good Shepherd
[43:36] - Prayer and Closing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- 1 Peter 5:1-5
- John 10:11-15
- Philippians 2:5-7
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Observation Questions:
1. What are the key characteristics of a shepherd as described in John 10:11-15, and how do they relate to the role of a leader in the church? [07:18]
2. According to 1 Peter 5:1-5, what specific instructions does Peter give to the elders regarding their leadership style? [05:34]
3. How does the metaphor of sheep and shepherds in the Bible illustrate the relationship between Jesus and His followers? [08:39]
4. What does Philippians 2:5-7 reveal about the nature of Jesus' leadership and how it should influence Christian leaders today? [40:08]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How might the concept of kenosis, or self-emptying, as described in Philippians 2:5-7, challenge the traditional views of leadership in today's society? [41:34]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that the role of oversight in leadership is crucial for guiding others towards God's purposes? [24:36]
3. How does the sermon interpret the idea of leading with eagerness rather than obligation, and what implications does this have for leaders in various contexts? [28:35]
4. What does the sermon imply about the dangers of domineering leadership, and how can leaders avoid falling into this trap? [33:51]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you were in a leadership position. How did you prioritize serving others and pointing them to Jesus over seeking personal gain? What changes could you make to better align with the model of the Good Shepherd? [05:34]
2. Consider your current roles, whether at work, home, or in the community. How can you exercise oversight in a way that helps others see beyond their immediate circumstances to the greater purposes of God? [24:36]
3. Think about a situation where you felt obligated to serve rather than eager. What steps can you take to rediscover the joy and eagerness in serving others, as modeled by Jesus? [28:35]
4. Identify a specific area in your life where you might be tempted to lead with a domineering attitude. How can you practice humility and serve as an example to others instead? [33:51]
5. Reflect on the concept of kenosis. What is one practical way you can empty yourself for the sake of others this week, pointing them to the hope found in Christ? [41:34]
6. How can you cultivate a community around you that values plurality and shared leadership, as described in the sermon? What steps can you take to encourage this in your church or group? [14:47]
7. In what ways can you elevate the name of Jesus in your daily interactions, ensuring that His name is prioritized above your own? [16:12]
Devotional
Day 1: Leadership as Humble Service
True Christian leadership is characterized by serving others selflessly and pointing them to Jesus, rather than seeking personal gain or power. This involves adopting a posture of humility and a willingness to empty oneself for the sake of others, reflecting the heart of the Good Shepherd. Leaders are called to exercise oversight, not out of compulsion but willingly, and to serve as examples rather than domineering over others. This kind of leadership is rooted in the example of Jesus, who demonstrated kenosis—emptying Himself for the sake of others. As leaders, whether in the church or in any position of influence, the call is to elevate Jesus's name above all else, serving with joy and eagerness. [05:34]
1 Peter 5:2-3 (ESV): "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."
Reflection: Think of a situation where you have the opportunity to lead. How can you intentionally serve others in that context, prioritizing their needs above your own desires for recognition or power?
Day 2: Oversight with Eternal Perspective
Leaders are called to exercise oversight, helping others see beyond their immediate circumstances to the greater purposes of God. This requires a community of believers who can provide guidance and clarity, reminding us of God's desires when we are blinded by our own perspectives. Oversight is not about control but about helping others align their lives with God's eternal purposes. By focusing on the eternal impact of our actions, we can lead others to the everlasting hope found in Christ. [24:36]
Colossians 3:1-2 (ESV): "If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."
Reflection: In what ways can you help someone in your life see beyond their current struggles to the greater purposes God might have for them? How can you offer guidance that points them to an eternal perspective?
Day 3: Eagerness in Service
Serving and leading should stem from a place of eagerness and joy, not compulsion or obligation. Jesus models this by pursuing us with joy, and we are invited to share that same heart as we lead others. This involves rejoicing in the opportunity to elevate His name and serve others with a willing spirit. When we lead with eagerness, we reflect the heart of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve. [28:35]
2 Corinthians 9:7 (ESV): "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Reflection: Consider a task or responsibility you have been approaching with reluctance. How can you shift your perspective to serve with eagerness and joy, reflecting the heart of Jesus in your actions?
Day 4: Humility in Leadership
To truly reflect Jesus, leaders must clothe themselves in humility, recognizing that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. This means being willing to lower our own status to lift up the name of Jesus, seeking His exaltation above our own. Humility in leadership involves acknowledging our own limitations and relying on God's strength and wisdom. By leading with humility, we create an environment where others can thrive and grow in their relationship with Christ. [38:57]
James 4:10 (ESV): "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you."
Reflection: Identify an area in your life where pride might be hindering your ability to lead effectively. How can you practice humility in that area, allowing God to work through you for His glory?
Day 5: Focusing on the Eternal
Elevating Jesus's name offers eternal recognition of His love, far surpassing any temporary human approval. As we lead, we are called to focus on the eternal impact of our actions, pointing others to the everlasting hope found in Christ. This involves prioritizing His name above our own and serving others with joy and eagerness. By keeping our eyes on the eternal, we can lead others to experience the abundant life that Jesus offers. [40:08]
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (ESV): "For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent decision or action. How can you ensure that your motivations and actions are aligned with an eternal perspective, rather than seeking temporary approval or success?
Quotes
"As leaders, as we're leading others in any capacity, we are called out of leading for any desired personal gain, and we're called into leading to elevate Jesus's name, to elevate Jesus's name." [00:05:34]
"Sheep tend to lack a sense of direction. Is that fair? They maybe need a shepherd to help them and to guide them in certain times." [00:11:08] (11 seconds)
"Sheep wander. Often sheep are led astray by the allure, the allure of the unknown pastures. And what happens, they're met in those moments by an enemy, right? Just defenseless, alone, right? Ready to be devoured." [00:13:38] (17 seconds)
"Jesus doesn't chase after those who are wandering aimlessly in this world out of some sort of obligation. Obligation, right? He's excited. He doesn't just offer rescue because he wants to just look good in the eyes of God." [00:30:18] (14 seconds)
"Here's the next instruction. It's not domineering, not domineering over those in charge, but being examples to the flock. So this instruction of Peter, for those in leadership, anywhere, is absolutely vital." [00:33:51] (13 seconds)
"Clothe yourself, all of you, with humility towards one another. For God opposes the proud, but he gives grace to the humble." [00:38:57] (8 seconds)
"When we elevate Jesus above ourselves. We don't just enjoy 15 minutes of recognition. Here's what we experience. We experience the eternal recognition of his love, which is so much greater than any sort of temporal human approval or acknowledgement." [00:40:08] (20 seconds)
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