Shepherds Must Serve

Shepherds must serve

Leadership in the church should look like Jesus. He is the Chief Shepherd, and those who lead His people are His undershepherds. In an age when control and platform are often mistaken for faithfulness, we affirm that true greatness in ministry comes through humility and service. This is why we follow the model of Christ, embrace the method of servant-hearted shepherding, and focus our mission on strengthening the local church.

The Model: Jesus, the Chief Shepherd

Jesus set the standard for leadership when He came not to be served but to serve and to give His life (Mark 10:45). He humbled Himself to wash feet (John 13:14–15) and laid down His life for His sheep (John 10:11–14). Philippians 2 reminds us that He took the form of a servant. As the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4), His example is not optional, it defines what biblical leadership is meant to be.

The Method: Servant-Hearted Shepherding

Likewise, pastors are called to shepherd the flock, not control it. Scripture emphasizes humility, oversight with care, and personal investment in the lives of the people (1 Peter 5:2–3, Acts 20:28). A good shepherd knows his sheep and lays down his life for them (John 10). Jesus said that the greatest leader is the one who serves (Matthew 23:11). True spiritual authority flows from love, not position.

The Mission: Strengthening the Local Church

We believe the local church is God’s primary tool for discipleship and ministry. Pastors are given to equip the saints and build up the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11–12). Our calling is to preach faithfully (2 Timothy 4:2), care deeply, and focus locally. The focus is not on growing an institution, but on shepherding real people. God uses ordinary pastors in ordinary churches (1 Corinthians 1:27), and He will hold them accountable for how they care for the flock (Hebrews 13:17).

The Mission: Strengthening the Local Church

The Truth Fellowship does not exist to govern the church, but to serve it. It is not a denomination or authority structure, but a group of pastors and leaders committed to coming alongside others in ministry. The desire is to encourage, support, and offer biblical counsel where it is welcomed. Following the example of Christ, who came to serve, The Truth Fellowship seeks to strengthen the work of the local church without replacing or directing it. The local church belongs to Christ, and the hope is simply to be a help as it grows in truth, love, and faithfulness.