by darrenjpollock » Fri Feb 09, 2024 3:12 am
The book helped me bridge the gap between biblical principles and practical application in contemporary ministry settings in pastoral accountability. Thinking about the present day, I am struck afresh by how we must walk the line between benevolence and authority (p.247)—to use the rod of authority (Psalm 2) and be the shepherd caring for the nursing ewes. I am mindful of when we need great discernment to care for the sheep, kick the goats, and chase the wolves. However, I know this is easier said than done. I worry I often hit the sheep and love the goats. Laniak was a helpful reminder to hold these tasks in a gracious tension and to pastorally lead with a wise and generous blend of compassion and authority. We must not delay or neglect the duty of protection, care, and discipline. I also reflected on how I could be cruel to those who were lost as I was, for my identity comes from being rescued and cared for by the shepherd.
Laniak gave me the tools to do this as I always remember whose flock I am shepherding. If we genuinely believe that God is the ultimate shepherd of his people, I am therefore called to be simultaneously responsible for the sheep and accountable to the owner. I am only a hired hand and will one day have to give an account of my employment. “ May the rest of my days seek to put my roots down into a biblical understanding of my identity as a shepherd, that I may care and steward the flock, big or small, the Lord has given me.
The book helped me bridge the gap between biblical principles and practical application in contemporary ministry settings in pastoral accountability. Thinking about the present day, I am struck afresh by how we must walk the line between benevolence and authority (p.247)—to use the rod of authority (Psalm 2) and be the shepherd caring for the nursing ewes. I am mindful of when we need great discernment to care for the sheep, kick the goats, and chase the wolves. However, I know this is easier said than done. I worry I often hit the sheep and love the goats. Laniak was a helpful reminder to hold these tasks in a gracious tension and to pastorally lead with a wise and generous blend of compassion and authority. We must not delay or neglect the duty of protection, care, and discipline. I also reflected on how I could be cruel to those who were lost as I was, for my identity comes from being rescued and cared for by the shepherd.
Laniak gave me the tools to do this as I always remember whose flock I am shepherding. If we genuinely believe that God is the ultimate shepherd of his people, I am therefore called to be simultaneously responsible for the sheep and accountable to the owner. I am only a hired hand and will one day have to give an account of my employment. “ May the rest of my days seek to put my roots down into a biblical understanding of my identity as a shepherd, that I may care and steward the flock, big or small, the Lord has given me.