4. Who is caring for God’s flock today, and with what spirit?

⁴ God’s promise had a major fulfillment in the Chief Shepherd of Jehovah’s sheep, Jesus, who became the Head of the Christian congregation. He called himself “the fine shepherd,” one who showed real compassion for those whom he led. (John 10:11-15) Today, Jehovah is using undershepherds to care for his earthly flock, both anointed brothers of the faithful and discreet slave class as well as conscientious elders of the “great crowd.” (Rev. 7:9) These shepherds strive to reflect Jesus’ self-sacrificing spirit. They want to feed and cherish the congregation, in imitation of Christ. Woe to any who neglect or lord it over their brothers or who adopt a harsh or arrogant attitude toward them! (Matt. 20:25-27; 1 Pet. 5:2, 3) What is Jehovah looking for in Christian shepherds today? What can we learn from Jeremiah’s writings about appropriate attitudes and motives for elders to have as they care for their responsibilities? Let us examine their roles as providers of help and protective care, as teachers inside and outside the congregation, and as judges.

⁶ Like literal shepherds, Christian overseers should not be negligent in caring for the congregation. If you serve as an elder, are you striving to be alert to any sign of suffering on the part of your brothers, and are you willing to assist them promptly? Wise King Solomon wrote: “You ought to know positively the appearance of your flock. Set your heart to your droves.” (Prov. 27:23) That verse extols the industriousness of literal shepherds; yet, in principle it may be applied to the care provided by spiritual shepherds in the congregation. If you serve as an elder, are you consciously fighting against any tendency to dominate others? The very fact that Peter mentioned “lording it over those who are God’s inheritance” proves that it is distinctly possible for an elder to do so. How can you help to accomplish what is described at Jeremiah 33:12? (Read.) Single parents, widows, stepfamilies, the elderly, and youngsters may have special need of attention and help.