Sublime

In order to maximize the mutual knowledge of the shepherd-sheep relationship it is essential that the members of the church be delegated among the elders of the church in order that each elder will know which sheep he is responsible for and the sheep will know the identity of their shepherd.

Chapter 11 Live into Community

In Peter’s words to his fellow elders he reminded them that they were to shepherd the flock, “nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:3).

In God’s economy, everyone benefits by everyone contributing.

When leaders are afraid and don’t trust God, followers won’t either.

Every member should have a personal connection with at least one elder. Real sheep “know they belong to a shepherd. They are named, known, and counted every day.”[143] The elders must not merely know the names of those members who are “his” sheep but must strive to know them personally.