2. For this or any church to grow, mature, and be what it ought to be to and for God, we need to have and continue pray for:

3. To my knowledge, for the first forty years of this congregation’s existence, it had no Shepherds. Certainly there were physical and spiritual “bumps in the road” that resulted. In truth, having Shepherds continually since 2000 hasn’t eliminated all the “bumps”- nor is such guaranteed for the future, despite all efforts to the contrary. So with regard to “Shepherds,” just appointing some isn’t all that’s necessary to insure success. So what is necessary?

4. What’s Necessary for Successful Leadership in the Congregation? “Good Shepherds” who feel and act properly toward sheep.  “Good Shepherds” instead of “Hirelings” John 10:7-15. They:  Have the same goals for the sheep as does the Owner, v.10- that they thrive instead of just survive spiritually. cf. 1Tim.1:3-7; 4:4-10; 6:3-5  Are willing to give themselves for the sheep, v.11. cf. Acts 20:17-27  Are genuinely concerned with protecting the sheep, vv.12-13. cf. Titus 1:9-10; Acts 20:28-35  Know the sheep, v.14a. cf. 1Pet.5:1-4

5. What’s Necessary for Successful Leadership in the Congregation? “Good Sheep” who feel and act properly toward the Shepherds.  “Good Sheep” instead of goats, strays, and culls, John 10:7-15. They:  Enter through Christ, want to be saved, and desire spiritual sustenance, vv.9-10.  Are willing to be led, vv.3b,4b,5b. No one can shepherd wild hogs. Shepherds and sheep are supposed to want the same things. cp. 1John 4:1; Heb.13:17  Know and Appreciate the Shepherd(s), vv.3- 5,14b. cf. 1Tim.5:17-22; 1Pet.5:5

6. What’s the take home point (s)? We have good Sheep and good Shepherds.  But we can all be better- always.  Don’t become complacent, Heb.10:19-25.  Continue to strive to work together for the common good, Eph.4:11-16.  Understand the value of and responsibility toward “other sheep” who can be brought in, John 10:16.