Paul's Journey to Jerusalem - Pt. 13: Shepherding - What it Entails
- Baptist Daily Devotional
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | December 1 2025 | Acts 20:28-35
KEY VERSE:
“Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the Church of God which he obtained with his own blood.” (Acts 20:28, ESV)
MESSAGE:
Yesterday, we looked at the shepherd’s first duty—taking care of one’s own life. Today, we remain in the same verse because there is more to learn about what shepherding involves.
First, the Church belongs to God. It was purchased with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. This truth should shape how we see the Church. Our attitude must be marked by awe, responsibility, and gratitude.
Second, it is the Holy Spirit who makes us shepherds. He assigns the work, equips us for it, and holds us accountable for how we serve. Peter reminds us in 1 Peter 5:4 that Jesus is the Chief Shepherd. We lead under Him, and we depend on His direction every step of the way.
Third, the word poimainō is translated in this verse as “to care for” the Church of God. It means “to tend a flock” and also “to lead the flock to pasture.” These meanings help us understand the whole task of shepherding. It includes feeding, guiding, caring for, and helping them grow as God desires.
Fourth, shepherding requires careful attention to “all the flock.” This work is demanding. Ezekiel 34 speaks of knowing the condition of each sheep and responding to it. Paul describes the daily pressure of caring for the churches in 2 Corinthians 11:28-29. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, calls His sheep by name in John 10. These pictures show how personal and weighty the calling truly is.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
God has trusted us with His people. This call carries responsibility and honour. It is more than appearance, role, or title. It calls for a faithful heart, careful service, and faithful care. Every shepherd must grow, pay attention, and walk closely with Jesus. There is always room to deepen our service.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus Christ, help me not only to take care of myself but to fulfil my Holy Spirit–assigned task. Give me the grace to serve Your people with a faithful heart. Teach me to listen to Your direction each day and walk in the strength You provide. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: TO CARE FOR The word translated “to care for” is the Greek verb ποιμαίνειν (poimainein), from the verb (poimainō). It means to tend a flock, to feed, to guide, to protect, and to lead to pasture. It is active, steady, and intentional work.
This word shows that shepherding is not a distant role. It involves moving with the flock, understanding their needs, giving direction, and leading them to places where they grow. It is care that engages the whole life of the shepherd.
Reflect on this
God calls His leaders to care for His people with attention and love. This word invites us to reflect on how we lead, guide others, and help people grow in Christ. It is a reminder to serve with a heart that is present and willing.
Comments