Published on December 5, 2023, 12:42 am

In the New Testament narrative, the role of the shepherd is synonymous not only with a symbol but also signifies a divine directive for church leadership, rooted in Jesus Christ as the Chief Shepherd. This role, portrayed in John 10:11, serves as more than an example; it forms the bedrock for pastoral leadership. As guided by this model, pastoral duties require sacrifice, privacy, and ethical righteousness. The task involves guarding, leading, and intimately knowing their flock, mimicking Christ’s methodologies.

The shepherd position equates directly to that of a pastor (1 Peter 5:2-4), signifying a divine calling—a consecrated office explicitly outlined in Scripture. According to created decrees and apostolic teachings detailed in scriptural texts like 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1, this pastoral role leans towards male leadership—capturing trends observed across biblical narratives. This isn’t prompted by cultural adaptations but instead emphasizes scriptural demands emphasizing the pastoral office as an individual responsibility vested only in men.

Carrying noticeably more weight than just a title, this office requires one to commit profoundly to replicate the characteristics of Chief Shepherd. The ones chosen for this mantle shoulder an obligation to steer their followers with truthfulness, rectitude and wisdom akin to that of Christ. By adhering strictly to these Biblical directives not only facilitates maintenance of God’s ordained structure but also highlights unwavering loyalty towards Christ and His Word on behalf of the church.

However raising eyebrows is Kevin DeYoung’s church—nominally conservative PCA church – as it has women pastors? Furthermore using the term “Shepherdess Ministry” seems too cloaked as reported in Christ Covenant Church’s website; stating that these female ‘shepherds’ are godly seasoned women aiding their pastoral staff during crisis periods.In addition it goes on detail how they grant encouragement through biblical counsel aimed at gospel-centred awakening within struggling women .Yet concurrently playing ‘shepherd’ role which essentially is designated solely for a pastor.

This not only envelopes confusion language wise but also portrays impression of women delivering the duties traditionally reserved for male pastors. While it doesn’t imply that women can’t assist in these matters, especially with other women, Christ Covenant has almost replicated the office of pastor and branded it under feminine title- ‘Shepherdess’. This extends to the website’s claim that the shepherdess also aids in church disciplinary issues.

With an impending sense of conservative biblical viewpoint being jeopardised by technological advances,it is imperative for followers to stay informed and continue voicing their Christian worldview.Regular updates on such real news linked developments and trusted news provide effective means to do so ensuring a persisted support system based on shared beliefs.