In this article, Kevin Hay explains why biblical shepherds are essential to the health of the local church. Drawing from 1 Peter 5, he outlines God’s design for elder leadership—humble, faithful men who care for the flock under the authority of Christ.

If you love the church, you must believe that God’s people deserve men who will be faithful shepherds in the midst of a frantic culture. No matter what era you peruse throughout history, faithful shepherds are always in demand. But is every man claiming “compulsion to lead the church” a man that should be trusted? We must ask questions.