Shepherding

The Apostle Paul described his ministry to the church at Ephesus in this way:

“I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from house to house... I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God. Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.” (Acts 20:20, 26-28)

Twice the Apostle reminds us that he did not shrink back from his duty and calling of ministering the Word of God to the people of God. This is why he was innocent of the blood of all men. Paul had a clear conscience before God because he fulfilled his calling by feeding God's blood bought sheep with His perfect word. This he did, both publicly and from house to house, through much opposition and tears. This was Paul's shepherding ministry in Ephesus and we pray that this will continue to be the characteristic of our ministry here at Pilgrim Bible Church for many years to come.

As Christ's undershepherds, we count it to be a great privilege, and an awesome responsibility, to serve the Lord in this capacity. We believe firmly that Christ's leadership of His church is to be mediated through the application of His Word by the teaching and prayers of the pastors/elders. This ministry is significantly aided by spiritual men who serve the church as deacons, freeing the overseers to focus on the ministry of the Word and prayer.

It is crucial that the body of Christ continue to uphold the priorities of the early church: To feed on God's word, to engage in fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. By these things the sheep of God's fold are to be fed and nourished so that they might grow in unity, maturity and increased capability of service.

Therefore the church's overseers are to be absorbed with the responsibility of feeding the flock of God and proving to be godly examples among the members of the fold. We constantly ask the flock for their prayers on our behalf, that God would graciously use us as His instruments through which His word would run and have success for the glory of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2)

Jeff Williamson, Elder

Michael Beasley, Pastor