Noble Shepherds for a Flourishing Flock: Embracing God’s Design for Leadership.

Sermon Title: Noble Shepherds for a Flourishing Flock:

Scripture: 1 Timothy 3:1-7

Occasion: The Lord’s Day | Family Sunday

Date: October 27, 2024

PRAYER

Heavenly Father,

We come before You today, grateful for this time to gather as a church family.

Thank You for the gift of Your Word, which guides and shapes us.

As we explore Your design for leadership in the church, open our hearts to understand Your truth and to see how we can follow Christ, the ultimate Shepherd.

What we know not, teach us. What we are not, make us. What we have not, give us.

May Your Spirit move among us, teaching us, encouraging us, and convicting us where needed. Holy Spirit, show us Christ.

Help us all—young and old—to listen closely to what You have to say.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Introduction

Good morning, church family!

Today is a special Sunday—it’s Family Sunday!

I’m so glad that we have all our children with us today, and I want you to know, kids, that you are a very special part of our church.

I hope you’ll listen closely because God has something to say to each one of us today, no matter how young or old we are.

Now, imagine with me a Bedouin (desert) shepherd, guiding his flock through the rocky hills of the Judean wilderness.

By day, he watches for predators lurking in the shadows, and by night, he sleeps at the entrance of the sheepfold, becoming a living gate to keep his flock safe.

He knows his sheep by name, and they trust him to lead them to green pastures and still waters.

The shepherd’s presence means life for his sheep—without him, they are vulnerable to dangers on every side.

This vivid picture of the desert shepherd captures the essence of church leadership as laid out in Scripture.

Like those sheep, the church needs shepherds—godly leaders who are watchful, caring, and ready to lay down their lives for the flock.

Yet, in our time, the topic of church leadership has become a point of concern and sometimes, even disillusionment.

The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill podcast brought to the forefront the tragedy of failed leadership, leaving many of us wondering what faithful shepherding should look like.

Some of you may have experienced similar pain firsthand—perhaps under leaders who failed you or misused their position.

It’s easy to point out what bad leadership looks like.

But what does faithful leadership look like?

Where do we turn for a vision of the kind of leaders that Christ desires for His church?

Today, I invite you to turn to 1 Timothy 3:1-7.

Our sermon this morning is titled:

"Noble Shepherds for a Flourishing Flock: Embracing God’s Design for Leadership."

Here, Paul gives us God’s vision for church leadership, describing the qualities that should mark those called to shepherd God’s people.

As we walk through this passage, we’ll see five aspects of a godly overseer:

Desire.

Dignity.

Doctrine.

Discipline.

And Devotion.

Together, we’ll discover how each of these qualities points us to Christ, the ultimate Shepherd, and how they apply to our church today.

Transition:

Let’s dive into this passage and see what God has to say to us.

Our journey begins with DESIRE.

I. Desire: A Passion for the Noble Task (v. 1)

Paul writes in verse 1,

1 Timothy 3:1 ESV

The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task.

Let me first and fore most point this out and get this out of the way for us:

Paul’s words make it clear here that the role of overseer is reserved for men.

The orthodox historical biblical position on this issue affirms that this leadership role is a calling for qualified men, as indicated by the repeated use of masculine terms throughout 1 Timothy 3:1-7.

In these verses, Paul uses masculine pronouns and language nearly a dozen times, amplifying that the office of elder or overseer is to be held by men.

This is not an issue of cultural preference but of God’s ordained design for the leadership structure within the church.

It aligns with the broader teaching of Scripture on male headship in the family and the church, as seen in passages like 1 Corinthians 11 and Ephesians 5 and some of what we learned last week.

With that in mind, this is where the journey truly begins for a pastor—a heart that deeply longs to serve and shepherd God's people.

Paul uses the phrase pistos ho logos, meaning “the saying is trustworthy,” to stress a crucial point.

This phrase serves as a marker of significance in the Pastoral Epistles, drawing attention to a statement that the church should pay special attention to.

By introducing this with such a weighty declaration, Paul is not merely giving an opinion—he is laying out a divinely inspired truth for Timothy and the church.

He’s telling Timothy—and us—that aspiring to be a shepherd of God’s people is a good and noble aspiration.

Yet, it's important to note that Paul’s focus is not on a desire for the title of overseer, but for the work of an overseer.

The Greek word for “aspires” (oregatai) carries the sense of reaching out, of actively seeking something.

It’s not a passive longing; it’s an earnest pursuit.

Paul describes this as a “noble task,” highlighting for us the hard work and sacrificial nature of Pastoring/shepherding.

It is not merely about holding a position of honor but about embracing the responsibility to care for God’s people.

Imagine the context in which Paul is writing:

Ephesus, a church troubled by false teachers and internal conflict.

Leadership in the church was not necessarily a position of ease or prestige.

The leaders had to face opposition, correct errors, and guide the flock through difficult times.

According to many commentators, including William Mounce, it is likely that some in Ephesus were hesitant to take up leadership roles due to the pressures and conflicts that surrounded them.

Thus, Paul’s affirmation that it is a good and noble task was meant to encourage those who might otherwise shrink back from the responsibility.

The Greek term kalou ergou—“noble task”—underscores the virtue and value of this work.

It is “good” not merely in the sense of being desirable but in the deeper sense of being morally excellent and beneficial for the church.

Chrysostom, one of the early church fathers, called it “a work of protection,” accentuating that the role of an overseer is to guard and protect the church just as a shepherd guards his flock.

This noble task involves teaching, guiding, correcting, and sometimes even confronting challenges to protect the purity and unity of the church.

Think of it this way:

Just as a Bedouin shepherd must endure sleepless nights to protect his flock from predators, a godly leader must be willing to lay down his comfort for the sake of others.

The shepherd's desire is not for recognition or status but for the safety and well-being of the sheep.

In the same way, an overseer's desire should be for the well-being of God's people, even when it means facing difficult circumstances or sacrificing personal comfort.

Reflection:

Kids, think about this:

Have you ever helped your little brother or sister, even when you didn’t feel like it?

Maybe it was hard work, but you did it because you cared about them.

That’s like what a good church leader does.

They work hard to help and protect others, even when it’s not easy.

For all of us, if you feel a desire for leadership, what motivates that desire?

Is it for recognition, or is it for the hard work of shepherding?

How might God be calling you to serve others, even if you are not called to be an elder?

This desire is not about chasing power or prestige but about loving Christ’s church deeply.

Charles Spurgeon once said,

“It is a fearful calamity to have an ambitious minister; to have a man who does not sigh and cry for souls, but aims at being great in the estimation of men.” -C.H. Spurgeon

Spurgeon’s words remind us that true spiritual leadership is always marked by a heart for the people, not a desire for personal advancement.

Let us pray for leaders who desire the work—not for the applause of men but for the glory of God.

This sets the foundation for all the qualities that follow, as Paul outlines what it means to shepherd God’s people with a heart that truly reflects the love and sacrifice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

Transition:

Now, Paul shifts from desire to dignity, laying out the character qualifications of a leader.

II. Dignity: A Life Above Reproach (vv. 2-3)

He says in verses 2-3,

1 Timothy 3:2–3 ESV

Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.

What we see here in vv2-3 is a transition from Desire to Dignity:

Moving from desire, Paul stresses that it’s not enough to merely want the role—one must be fit for it.

The term “above reproach” serves as a summary statement for the kind of life an overseer must lead.

It doesn’t demand perfection, but it does mean that his life should not give cause for accusation.

Paul’s concern here is that the overseer’s character would stand in stark contrast to the false teachers who had brought shame upon the church.

An overseer is to be a model of integrity, both inside and outside the church, restoring credibility to the Christian witness in the community.

The Greek term used here, ἀνεπίλημπτον (aneplēmpetos), “above reproach,” focuses on a life that is blameless in the public eye.

It comes from a compound word that essentially means “not to be taken hold of,” implying that there should be no grounds for legitimate accusation.

As Chrysostom, an early church father, put it,

“Every virtue is implied in this word.” John Chrysostom (Homily 10)

It serves as a summary of the list that follows, where Paul unpacks what a life “above reproach” looks like through a series of qualities.

Paul lists specific attributes that define a life above reproach:

“The husband of one wife” (μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἄνδρα):

This phrase has been the subject of much discussion.

This refers to a man who is faithful to his wife, a “one-woman man.” It emphasizes sexual purity and devotion, which was crucial in a context where the false teachers may have promoted a distorted view of marriage and sexuality (1 Tim 4:3).

This does not mean that an overseer must be married, but if he is, he must be faithful to his spouse.

“Sober-minded” (νηφάλιος, nēphalios):

This term means clear-minded and self-controlled, suggesting that a leader must be disciplined in thought and behavior.

It points to the ability to make wise decisions without being swayed by emotions or external pressures.

“Self-controlled” (σώφρων, sōphrōn):

This term complements nēphalios, referring to a disciplined lifestyle that governs one's desires and passions.

It suggests a maturity that is essential for leadership, as leaders must model self-control in every aspect of their lives.

“Respectable” (κόσμιος, kosmios):

This term refers to an orderly and well-arranged life, both internally and externally.

It implies a life that others can respect, a life that mirrors the dignity and order that should characterize the church.

“Hospitable” (φιλόξενος, philoxenos):

This characteristic highlights the importance of welcoming others, especially strangers, into one's home.

In a time when traveling teachers and missionaries depended on the hospitality of believers, an overseer’s willingness to open his home would have been a significant part of his ministry.

It also reflects a heart that cares for others and welcomes them into the life of the church.

“Not a Drunkard” (μὴ πάροινον):

This phrase literally means “not given to much wine” and implies that a leader should have control over their consumption of alcohol.

Drunkenness not only impairs judgment but can lead to other sinful behaviors.

An overseer should set an example of moderation and self-control, showing that his mind and actions are always under the influence of the Spirit, not substances.

“Not Violent”, “Gentle” (μὴ πλήκτην, ἐπιεικῆ):

Paul contrasts violence with gentleness. “Not violent” refers to not being physically or verbally aggressive—leaders should not be quick-tempered or prone to bullying others.

Instead, they are to be “gentle,” showing a gracious spirit, willing to be kind even when faced with hostility or disagreement. Gentleness is a reflection of Christ, who dealt tenderly with His followers.

“Not Quarrelsome” (ἄμαχον):

This means avoiding unnecessary disputes and arguments.

A godly leader should be a peacemaker, not someone who is always looking for a fight.

They should be able to engage in discussions without letting them turn into heated debates, fostering unity rather than division.

“Not a Lover of Money” (ἀφιλάργυρον):

This addresses the issue of greed.

A leader must not be motivated by financial gain, but rather by a love for God and His people.

The love of money can lead to compromises in integrity and a neglect of the needs of others.

Paul wants to ensure that the leaders of the church are serving out of a heart for ministry, not for personal profit.

These qualities collectively paint a picture of a leader whose life is a consistent example to the flock, providing stability and credibility to the church.

It’s not just about avoiding scandal; it’s about embodying a character that others can look up to and imitate.

Paul says it this way in 1 Corinthians 11:1

1 Corinthians 11:1 ESV

Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.

Illustration:

Think of it this way:

A shepherd’s life is always on display. Just as the Bedouin shepherd leads his flock in and out of the sheepfold, visible to all, so a church leader’s life is lived in the open.

It should be a life that others can look to and follow.

A leader should be like a lighthouse, standing firm in the storm, offering a guiding light to those who are lost.

Paul’s emphasis on being “above reproach” is a timely message for us today.

In a world where the failures of Christian leaders often make headlines, the church desperately needs leaders whose lives back up their words, leaders who embody the character of Christ and live lives that reflect the gospel they preach.

This kind of life is not just important for the leader’s sake but for the witness of the entire church.

The way a leader lives can either enhance or hinder the message of the gospel.

Reflection:

Children,

imagine a leader like a big brother or sister who always tries to do what’s right, even when no one is watching.

Would you want to follow their example? Why or why not?

That’s what Paul is talking about—leaders should be like that, setting an example for everyone.

For all of us, is your life one that others can follow with confidence, knowing that it points to Christ?

How do you respond when faced with temptation or challenges to your character?

Richard Baxter, the Puritan pastor, once wrote,

“Take heed to yourselves, lest your example contradict your doctrine, and lest you lay such stumbling blocks before the blind, as may be the occasion of their ruin.” -Richard Baxter

Baxter’s words remind us that a leader’s character is inseparable from his teaching.

The church needs leaders whose lives match their message, leaders who can be trusted because they live what they preach.

In our cultural moment, where integrity can seem rare, let us pray that God would raise up leaders who embody this dignity—who live lives above reproach with the list Paul lays out for us.

And may we each strive to reflect this kind of character, knowing that in doing so, we point others to the ultimate example of integrity, Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd.

Transition:

Paul then moves to the critical qualification of being able to teach, writing in verse 2 that an overseer must be “skilled in teaching” (διδακτικός).

III. Doctrine: Skillful in Handling the Word (v. 2)

This word, which means “able to teach” or “skilled in teaching,” is used elsewhere in the New Testament in similar contexts, such as in 2 Timothy 2:24, where it is expected of the Lord’s servant.

2 Timothy 2:24 (ESV)

And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil,

This qualification isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about having the ability to communicate that knowledge effectively to others, guiding them in the truth of the gospel and refuting false teachings that might creep into the church.

In the historical context of Ephesus, false teaching was a significant issue.

Paul’s emphasis on teaching was likely a direct response to the challenges Timothy faced there.

The false teachers in Ephesus were promoting a different gospel (1 Timothy 1:4), and Paul knew that the church needed leaders who could clearly instruct the truth and correct these errors.

Thus, being “able to teach” wasn’t just a passive possession of knowledge—it involved active participation in guiding the church back to the sound doctrine of the gospel.

This teaching role is vital to the health of the church.

While deacons in the early church took on the role of serving the physical needs of the congregation, elders or overseers were entrusted with the spiritual nourishment of the flock through teaching.

As one commentator notes, “The elders are the teachers; the deacons are more involved in the day-to-day serving.”

Teaching is a fundamental part of shepherding because it involves nourishing the people of God with the truths of Scripture, protecting them from error, and helping them grow in faith.

Illustration:

Imagine a shepherd who knows where the best pastures are but refuses to lead his sheep there.

It would be a tragedy, wouldn’t it?

Without that guidance, the sheep would go hungry, wandering in search of food.

In the same way, a pastor who fails to teach God’s Word faithfully leaves his congregation spiritually malnourished and vulnerable to false doctrine.

Just as sheep need grass to grow strong, Christians need the Word of God to grow in their faith.

Reflection:

Kids,

think of your favorite food that helps you grow strong—like vegetables or fruits.

What if the person who makes your meals just stopped giving you those foods?

You’d be hungry and weak, right?

The Bible is like that good food for our souls, and a good pastor makes sure everyone gets plenty of it.

For everyone,

how well do you know the Scriptures?

Are you equipped to help others understand the truth?

In what ways can you grow in your ability to share God’s Word with others, whether formally or informally?

As Thomas Watson, a Puritan pastor, once said,

“The devil is content that people should be diligent in good duties, so long as they are ignorant. Knowledge is the eye of the soul.”-Thomas Watson

A shepherd who teaches faithfully gives sight to the flock, leading them to Christ, the Good Shepherd, who laid down His life for His sheep.

John Piper captures this beautifully when he says,

“Leading is feeding.”-John Piper

This phrase underscores that the heart of shepherding is teaching—faithfully feeding God’s people with the truths of Scripture.

Without sound doctrine, the church loses its anchor.

Faithful teaching keeps the church grounded, reminding us of who God is, what He has done in Christ, and how we are to live in response.

Transition:

From doctrine, Paul transitions to discipline, emphasizing self-control and the ability to manage one’s own household well.

IV. Discipline: A Model of Self-Control (vv. 3-5)

He says,

1 Timothy 3:3–5 ESV

not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?

Paul’s emphasis here is clear:

leadership in the church starts with leadership in the home.

The term used for “managing” (προϊστάμενον) carries the idea of both leading and caring—like a protector who ensures the well-being of those under his care.

This is not about authoritarian rule but about guiding and nurturing with a spirit of gentleness.

The home becomes a proving ground for greater responsibility in the church, showing that an overseer’s ability to care for God’s church is first demonstrated in how he manages his own household.

Paul uses the word καλῶς (“well”) to describe this management, implying not just competence but doing the task in a fitting and commendable manner.

An overseer must manage his household “well,” ensuring that his children are characterized by respectful submission (τέκνα ἔχοντα ἐν ὑποταγῇ).

This is not about mere external obedience but about creating an environment where respect and order are evident.

The father’s dignity in the process is crucial (μετὰ πάσης σεμνότητος), indicating that this leadership is to be carried out with a sense of honor and grace.

Illustration:

Paul’s logic is simple yet profound:

If a man can’t shepherd a small flock—his family—how can he shepherd the larger flock of the church?

It’s like an apprentice blacksmith who must prove his skill on small tasks before forging a great sword.

Only after mastering the basics can he move on to more complex challenges.

For the kids, think of it this way: Imagine you have a small plant that you’re taking care of.

You water it, make sure it gets sunlight, and protect it from getting too cold.

If you can’t take care of that little plant, how could you take care of a whole garden full of plants?

In the same way, if a pastor can’t take care of his family, he’s not ready to take care of a whole church.

Reflection:

How well do you steward the relationships and responsibilities God has given you, starting with those in your own home?

Kids,

How do you help out at home?

Are you learning to be kind, patient, and helpful, just like Jesus?

Church, In what ways does your life reflect self-control, gentleness, and care for others, especially when no one is watching?

Jonathan Edwards once remarked,

“Every Christian family ought to be as it were a little church.” -Jonathan Edwards

The home is the first place where the qualities of a leader are tested, and it is often in the little things—quiet acts of service, gentle correction, loving discipline—that a shepherd’s heart is most clearly revealed.

Paul’s rhetorical question in verse 5 ties the two together:

1 Timothy 3:5 ESV

for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?

The word for “care” (ἐπιμελήσεται) is also used in the story of the Good Samaritan, describing his tender care for the wounded man (Luke 10:34-35).

This imagery suggests that an overseer’s care for the church should be like tending to someone who is in need—compassionate, attentive, and devoted.

It’s not about wielding power but about nurturing and protecting the flock entrusted to him.

In this, Paul sets a high standard, recognizing that the same qualities required for leading a home—patience, wisdom, and love—are essential for leading the household of God.

The emphasis is on the heart of a servant-leader, who models Christ’s love and care in both the home and the church.

Transition:

Finally, Paul turns to devotion, emphasizing the need for spiritual maturity.

V. Devotion: Spiritual Maturity and Humility (vv. 6-7)

He writes,

1 Timothy 3:6 ESV

He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil.

Paul’s concern is that a new believer, placed in leadership too soon, might be tempted to pride, just as the devil was.

The term Paul uses for "recent convert" (νεόφυτον) means "newly planted," painting a picture of a tender, young plant that needs time to grow strong roots before facing the pressures of leadership.

A new believer, like a young plant, is vulnerable and not yet ready to withstand the challenges that come with guiding others.

Placing such a person in a position of authority can lead to pride (τυφοῦσθαι), a term that suggests being "clouded with pride," like smoke that obscures vision.

Paul warns that this pride can lead to "the judgment of the devil" (κρίμα τοῦ διαβόλου).

The phrase likely refers to the same downfall that Satan experienced—being cast down due to his arrogance and desire to usurp God's place.

The lesson is that spiritual maturity is a safeguard against the trap of pride that has led many astray, even as it did the devil.

Illustration:

For the kids, think about learning to ride a bike.

At first, you might need training wheels to help keep you balanced.

If you try to take those off too soon, you might fall and get hurt.

But if you take your time and practice, soon you’ll be riding without any help.

In the same way, new believers need time to grow strong in their faith before they take on bigger responsibilities.

It’s not because they aren’t important, but because God wants them to be ready and strong.

Paul adds that a leader

1 Timothy 3:7 ESV

Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil.

(παγίδα τοῦ διαβόλου) “into a snare of the devil”.

This underscores the importance of a leader’s witness to the broader community.

If a church leader is respected both within and outside the church, he reflects the character of Christ, protecting the church from public shame and the devil’s traps.

The "snare" imagery suggests that Satan actively seeks to entrap those in positions of influence, exploiting any area of vulnerability, like pride or a damaged reputation.

Reflection:

Are you patient in allowing God to mature you in His time, or do you find yourself rushing ahead of His plan?

How can you cultivate a spirit of humility in your own life, knowing that all you have is from Christ?

Kids,

Think about a time when you had to wait for something important. How did you feel?

What did you learn while you waited?

As Charles Spurgeon once said,

“Humility is the proper estimate of oneself.” -C.H. Spurgeon

The church needs leaders who see themselves rightly before God—weak vessels through whom the power of Christ shines.

Just as Jesus humbled Himself to serve us, we too must follow His example, growing in grace and becoming more like Him day by day.

Conclusion: Responding to God’s Vision for Leadership—Noble Shepherds for a Flourishing Flock

As we draw to a close, let’s reflect deeply on the vision for godly leadership that Paul has laid out for us, focusing on these five essential qualities: Desire, Dignity, Doctrine, Discipline, and Devotion.

This vision paints a picture of Noble Shepherds for a Flourishing Flock—the kind of leaders who help the church thrive under Christ’s care.

And if you are here today and have not yet placed your trust in Jesus, consider how these qualities speak to your own need for Him as your true Shepherd.

Desire:

A desire to serve as an overseer is not about the pursuit of status but about embracing a noble calling.

If you feel that stir in your heart, a longing to serve God’s people, pray that God would purify and shape that desire, making it less about you and more about His kingdom.

The desire to lead should always be rooted in a longing to shepherd others as Christ has shepherded us.

If you haven’t yet met Christ, know that His desire is to seek and save the lost, to shepherd you into His fold.

Kids, imagine wanting to help your friends because you care about them—that’s the kind of desire God wants in a leader, someone who cares deeply about others, just like Jesus cares for you.

Dignity:

The character of a leader matters deeply.

It’s not just about what you do; it’s about who you are when no one is looking.

Paul’s emphasis on character challenges each of us—leaders and congregation alike—to pursue integrity.

Are we living lives that reflect the holiness of Christ?

Pray that God would raise up leaders of unwavering integrity who are above reproach, men whose lives are marked by purity, kindness, and humility.

For those who are not yet followers of Jesus, consider what it means to live a life of true dignity—a life transformed by Christ.

Kids, think about being kind and truthful even when your teacher or parents aren’t watching.

That’s the kind of heart God is looking for in all of us.

Doctrine:

The ability to teach is foundational for guiding the church into truth.

As John Piper said, “Leading is feeding.”

True shepherds nourish their flock through the faithful teaching and preaching of God’s Word.

Without sound doctrine, the church loses its anchor.

Pray that God would empower those who teach to faithfully proclaim the riches of the gospel.

And ask yourself:

Are you eager to learn, to sit under teaching that stretches your understanding and deepens your faith?

And if you have yet to embrace the gospel, know that Jesus Himself invites you to learn from Him, to find rest for your soul.

Kids, think of how you learn new things at school, and how important it is that your teachers explain things clearly. I

t’s just as important that pastors and leaders teach us about God in a way we can understand.

Discipline:

Managing one’s own household well is a testing ground for the work of shepherding God’s church.

It reveals a heart that is patient, loving, and willing to lay down its life for others.

For those in leadership, this means shepherding their families with the same care that they would show the church.

For everyone, kids included, think about how you help out at home.

Do you listen well to your parents or help take care of your siblings?

That’s practicing being responsible, just like a pastor takes care of the church.

And for those considering faith, see how the love and care of Christ in our families is a reflection of the greater love He offers to you.

Adults, reflect on how we manage the responsibilities God has given us—are we reflecting Christ’s servant heart in our homes, workplaces, and relationships?

Devotion:

Spiritual maturity and humility are non-negotiable for those who would lead Christ’s flock.

Paul’s warning against elevating recent converts is a reminder that wisdom comes with time and experience in the faith.

For our younger listeners, it’s like learning to ride a bike—you need time and practice to get better.

In the same way, becoming like Jesus takes time and patience.

Pray for patience in raising up new leaders, and seek to grow in your own spiritual maturity, knowing that becoming like Christ is a lifelong journey.

Adults, remember, there is no shortcut to sanctification.

And if you are seeking purpose and direction, know that Jesus offers a path of growth that leads to abundant life.

As we reflect on these five qualities, let us see how they are ultimately embodied in Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd.

He desired to do the will of the Father, showing us what true leadership looks like.

He lived a life of perfect integrity, spotless and blameless.

He taught with authority, feeding His followers with the words of eternal life.

He laid down His life for His sheep, leading not through domination but through sacrificial love.

And He is the One to whom we look as our ultimate example of spiritual maturity, the One who humbled Himself even to the point of death on a cross.

For those who don’t yet know Him, this is the Savior who calls you to Himself—He laid down His life for you, that you might have life in Him.

These qualifications are not just a checklist for leaders—they are a call for each of us to follow Christ more closely.

They are a call for us to be a church that embodies the character, the teaching, and the love of our Savior.

Noble Shepherds for a Flourishing Flock—that’s the vision Paul gives us, and it’s what will allow our church to thrive under the care of godly leaders.

And if you have not yet trusted in Jesus, I invite you to consider what it means to be led by Him, the true Shepherd who seeks and saves the lost.

As we prepare to leave this place today, ask yourself these questions:

Am I willing to support and pray for those who serve as leaders, understanding the weight of their calling?

How am I growing in the character qualities Paul outlines here, even if I’m not called to serve as an elder?

Do I hunger for the pure teaching of God’s Word, knowing that through it, Christ feeds and guides His church?How is my life—my words, my actions, my relationships—reflecting the truth and grace of Jesus to those around me?

Kids, think about how you can show kindness and listen to those who teach you about God. Are you trying to be like Jesus in the way you treat others?

And for those who are searching for hope, know that Jesus stands ready to welcome you into His fold, offering grace, forgiveness, and new life.

May we all, by the grace of God, become more like Christ, the perfect Shepherd, who leads His church in truth, love, and power.

Let us pray together that He would shape us into His image, making us a people who reflect Christ in every area of our lives, striving to be Noble Shepherds in our lives and families for the Flourishing of our own flocks and this flock here at RCS. Amen.

Prayer

All Gracious and Sovereign Lord,

We thank You for Your Word that has spoken to us today about the call to be noble shepherds in Your church.

We ask that You would raise up leaders among us who reflect the qualities of desire, dignity, doctrine, discipline, and devotion, leading us faithfully.

For those who do not yet know You, may they see the beauty of Christ, the Good Shepherd, who laid down His life for the sheep.

Help us all to follow His example, growing in grace and truth.

Shape us into Your image and send us out to reflect Your love to a world in need. I

n the name of Jesus, our Savior and Shepherd, we pray.

Amen.