Msg #2353 Pastors and Sheep

What The Bible Says

Good Samaritan's Penny Pulpit by Pastor Ed Rice

In God's very high regard for sheep and shepherds it is prudent to examine some warnings that God gives shepherds. Shepherds lead sheep to pastures, and came to be called Pastors. Ezekiel 34 reveals seven things God expects of Pastors, (vr.2) “Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! 1) should not the shepherds feed the flocks? … but ye feed not the flock. 2) (vr.4) The diseased have ye not strengthened, 3) neither have ye healed that which was sick, 4) neither have ye bound up that which was broken, 5) neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, 6) neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them. vr.5 And they were scattered, because there is no shepherd: … 7) (vr.6) none did search or seek after them.

That makes for a powerful checklist for what a Pastor is to be doing. For those not measuring up, “Therefore, O ye shepherds, hear the word of the LORD; Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require my flock at their hand, and cause them to cease” (34:9,10a).

God Requires that you have a Pastor, “And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking, saith the LORD” (Jer.23:4). Pastors, according to God's heart, have sheep that: 1) Are well fed, 2) Fear no Evil, 3) Are not Dismayed, and 4) Are not lacking – i.e. they shall not want. Ditch your priest or clergy, pray for your Pastor.

An Essay for week #53 - Dec 31, 2023

Preacher's Pilgrimage to Israel Journal www.GSBaptistChurch.com/israel22

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A weekly 300 word essay- The Penny Pulpit
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