Training Others to Become Shepherds

Any brother, regardless of age, who "is reaching out for an office of overseer . .  . is desirous of a fine work." (1 Timothy 3:1) Many ministerial servants have demonstrated a willingness to reach out for additional privileges. Thus, elders gladly help these willing brothers to take this important step in "reaching out for an office of overseer."  This means training them to be effective shepherds.

Because of adhering to God's high standards, Jehovah's Christian congregation  has not been weakened by false shepherds like the ones described at Ezekiel 34:2-6.  These were contemptible in Jehovah's sight and rightly so.   Instead of feeding the flock, they fed themselves.  They failed to strengthen the sick, to heal the ailing, to bandage the broken, or to bring back the dispersed or the lost.  Acting more like wolves than shepherds, they tyrannized over the sheep.  The neglected sheep were scattered, aimlessly roaming with no one to care for them. -Jeremiah 23:1, 2; Nahum 3:18; Matthew 9:36. 

Unlike those unfaithful shepherds, Christian shepherds follow Jehovah's example.  They help to lead the sheep to spiritual "grassy pastures" and "well-watered resting places."  They endeavor to direct them "in the tracks of righteousness" by helping them to understand Jehovah's Word properly and to apply it personally.  They can do this effectively because they are "qualified to teach." -1 Timothy 3:2. 

Much of the elders' teaching is done from the platform during congregation meetings. However, elders also teach on a personal level. Of course, some are better at teaching in a one-on-one situation, while others  are more gifted at giving talks.  But a lesser degree of ability in one aspect of teaching does not necessarily  disqualify someone as a teacher.  Elders teach, using all avenues open to them including shepherding. Some shepherding is done on a formal basis, for example, on organized visits.  But much shepherding can also be done in a more informal way, which is also of great benefit.  

Next time: Shepherds and Teachers All the Time

From the Watchtower magazine, 2000