What did you learn about shepherding from 1 & 2 Timothy?
The conduct of a shepherd is one thing that stands out to me….
Almost all of 1 Timothy 3…. Qualifications for Overseers and Deacons.
Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers. (1 Timothy 4:15-16)
As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. (2 Timothy 4:5)
The conduct of a shepherd is always under scrutiny. Where the shepherd goes, the flock follows, and a stumbling shepherd can often lead others to stumble as well. Therefore, we must be prudent in our conduct as others look on.
Boldness also stands out to me on a profoundly personal level….
for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, (2 Timothy 1:7-8)
You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also. Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 2:1)
Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, (2 Timothy 3:12)
Paul calls Timothy to be bold in carrying out the work God has laid before him and calls him to share in his suffering for the gospel. This convicted me on many levels. Mainly though, it is my pride that prevents me from walking with this boldness. If I am to shepherd others well, I need to lay down my pride and lean on the words and the promises of the good shepherd.
How do you practically stay ready to preach the word in season and out of season?
To practically stay ready to preach the word, we need to first and foremost abide in Him, regardless of what season we may be in. We need to keep in relationship with Him. Only by walking closely with the Good Shepherd can we stay prepared to shepherd His flock. If our relationship with Him is a strong one, we will always be ready to lead others and point them to Him.