Published on December 2, 2023, 1:58 am

The narrative of the New Testament presents the shepherd not simply as an emblem but as a divine mandate for church management, deeply rooted in Jesus Christ’s persona as the Principal Shepherd. As illustrated in John 10:11, His actions aren’t just illustrative but lay down essential precedents for pastoral stewardship. This template defines a role that is naturally selfless, extraordinarily subjective, and ethically virtuous. It revolves around protecting, directing, and closely understanding the congregation, reflecting Christ’s direct approach.

The shepherd, paralleled with a pastor (1 Peter 5:2-4), signifies a divine vocation—a sacred post explicitly described in Scripture. As expressed by created arrangements and validated by apostolic instruction, this position is intended for men only. The qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 are unambiguous and clear-cut, consistently indicating male leadership – an alignment that parallels the whole biblical story. This isn’t cultural modification but rather scriptural commandment marking out pastoral authority as a unique solemn duty assigned to men.

Such authority transcends merely being a title; it signifies a serious commitment to imitate the Principal Shepherd. Individuals entrusted with this mantle carry the holy responsibility of leading with authenticity, integrity and Christ-like wisdom. By adhering strictly to these biblical guidelines, not only does a church uphold God’s ordained infrastructure but also affirm its unwavering loyalty towards Christ and His teachings.

However, questions have arisen regarding Kevin DeYoung’s church – declared “conservative” PCA church – which seem to endorse female pastors hidden under what they name as “Shepherdess Ministry.” According to their website information of Christ Covenant Church states that “Shepherdesses” are seasoned women of high moral character who assist pastoral staff and leadership during periods when women within the church are in crisis.

It further explains that Shepherdesses provide consolidation via biblical counsel offering spiritual viewpoints all while maintaining friendship accountability. The goal being to rebuild the distressed woman’s journey in a manner centered around gospel teachings that will restore her relationships both within the family and her church community.

The duties detailed seem identical to those of the shepherd or pastor’s biblical position. At best, this can produce confusing language giving one an impression that women are eligible to perform as pastoral figures. It isn’t that women can’t assist in these affairs, particularly with other females. But by establishing an office modeled after a priest/shepherd role and dressing it under female terminology, Christ Covenant risks clouding scriptural mandates. Interestingly, their website also states that the Shepherdess is involved in matters of church discipline.

Hence we must ensure that we remain true and steady in our Christian perspective despite real news implying invaded spaces by big tech intent on muzzling our voices and eclipsing trusted news derived from our conservative biblical worldview. Let us stay informed and refuse to go down without a fight!