Six Cautions for Shepherding Leaders in Revitalization

In an earlier post, I mentioned the importance of shepherd leaders in the church. This type of leadership can be used to lead revitalization, however there are some cautions that should be noted. Here are six caution signs for pastors who are strongest in the shepherding gifts.

1. Neglecting Vision and Innovation: Shepherd leaders are often praised for their pastoral care, but an exclusive focus on pastoral care might lead to a lack of vision and innovation in the church. Without a clear vision for the future, the church may struggle to adapt to changing circumstances and may miss opportunities for growth and outreach.

2. Inclusivity vs. Exclusivity: While shepherd leaders are known for their deep love and care for every member, this can sometimes lead to exclusivity. In their efforts to care for the existing members, shepherd leaders may allow the church to inadvertently neglect outreach and inclusion, potentially limiting the church's ability to reach new people and grow.

3. Overlooking the Needs of the Younger Generation: Shepherd leaders are often associated with a more traditional approach to ministry. Because pastoral care is often more needed by the older generations of the church, the pastor may find that his perspective and preferences are being shaped by the generation he is spending most of this time with. Without intentionality, the needs and perspectives of the younger generation, who may have vastly different opinions about the community and the type of church needed to reach their peers, could be lost to the pastor.

4. Leadership in Times of Crisis: While shepherd leaders excel in providing comfort and support during times of need, they may face challenges in providing strong leadership during times of crisis or conflict. There are times when leaders must lead by making hard decisions without first shepherding the church to a consensus.

5. Dependency and Burnout: Shepherd leaders' deep sense of responsibility and care for the flock can lead to burnout and dependency. Congregations may become overly dependent on their shepherd leader, and the pastor may struggle to delegate tasks or take necessary breaks, potentially harming their own well-being and the health of the church.

6. The Hospice Trap Revisited: While the earlier post acknowledges the "hospice trap" in declining churches, some may assert that shepherd leaders should be more proactive in challenging declining congregations to revitalize rather than simply providing comfort in a hospice-like setting.

There is a critical need for a balanced approach to church leadership and pastors leading revitalization must understand the importance of considering the specific needs and context of each congregation. Different leadership styles may be more appropriate in different situations, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not be ideal for every church.