[εις επαινον δοξης αυτου] 9/12/2006 12:20:24 PM

I agree with Jefferson's critique. However the opposite is as equally prevalent and dangerous. For example, I often hear this about pastors: "His preaching/teaching stinks, but he's a strong shepherd." How sad. In fact, how can one be a strong shepherd without being a good (at least accurate) teacher? Shepherds not only guide, but protect the flock from wolves, aka false teachers.

I've also heard pastors (present and future) say, "I hate to study. I just want to help people... I could never go to seminary." The pastor's shepherding ability and authority come from his teaching ministry.
I would say (though not as a pastor yet) that preaching as a method is not the problem. Our content is the problem. We spend hours a week studying God's Word, only to give the flock three applications to please God this next week.

Jefferson's warning is fantastic. Thanks, Matt. I think I'd like to understand more his def. of "Shepherding."

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Posted by Zach Dietrich to εις επαινον δοξης αυτου at 9/12/2006 12:20:24 PM