Who's In Charge Here?

Acts 20:17-38
Among Paul’s final words to the leaders of the church in Ephesus were these: “Keep watch over yourselves and over all the flock, of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God that he obtained with the blood of his own Son” (Acts 20:28). Clearly, there is a tremendous amount of responsibility being passed along to these individuals, and high expectations for their work within the community of faith. Who would willingly accept such a difficult task? And why?

Leadership within the church, says Paul, is decided by the Holy Spirit who provides for “overseers, to shepherd” the faithful. So with the responsibility and the expectations, the elders of Ephesus are also granted the guidance of God’s Spirit, which is the source of their authority as well as the insight by which to exercise it. The terms that Paul uses, words like “flock” and “shepherd,” are very appropriate. Ideally the relationship between a flock and a shepherd is one of mutual regard. A shepherd cares for his or her sheep with deep concern, while the sheep learn to trust the shepherd for their own wellbeing. Shepherds who made arbitrary decisions or who do not take the needs of the sheep into account will not gain the trust necessary to care for a flock. Sheep who do not trust the shepherd will find themselves lost, hungry, or the prey of wild animals.

As someone who has pastored congregations for over 20 years I am well aware of the responsibility I have accepted. It is not up to me to “govern” the church. But it is up to me to provide for and respect a community of faith as together we seek God’s will. The authority I have is not based on my rank, for no baptized Christian is above another. My authority comes from my willingness to perform certain tasks and to be attentive to the needs of those around me. Ultimately every member of the church has a share in the responsibility and the expectations, some in one way, some in another. But those called to act as overseers or shepherds must remain vigilant for what God intends and what the people need. As Paul would affirm, it’s tough work. But according to the Holy Spirit someone needs to do it.

Prayer: Lord, bless those who accept leadership in your church with the insight they need to do your will, and bless the entire community of faith with trust and mutual forbearance. In Jesus’ name. Amen.