Spiritual oversight by non-pastors, non-overseers in a church

[Pastor Larry]

I wouldn't get hung up on the word shepherd. What you describe, Marcia, is not only an option for the church, it is a mandate. Eph 4 declares that the pastor must train the saints to do the work of ministry. Call them whatever you want. Just do the work.

The oversight function of pastors deals with oversight of the church as a whole, not necesssarily spiritual oversight of individual believers (though that is not excluded). The pastor's main function is the preaching and teaching of the word and management of the church. He should engage others in the work of spiritual oversight and encouragement of believers. This fits in with Heb 10:24 where we are to stimulate one another to love and good deeds.

Why are you opposed to this? What problem do you see in it?

 

[Deacon]

You are confusing the gift of pastor/shepherd (Ephesians 4:11) with the role or task of a shepherd.

Part of the pastor’s responsibility is to TRAIN UP his flock.

We identify potential elders and deacons by their abilities and aptitudes.
Paul uses the phrases, “able to teach” (1 Tim 3:2) and “first be tested” (1 Timothy 3:10).
Jethro (Exodus 18:21) calls them “able men”.
How would you see these traits in a man unless you put him in that position in a limited way?

People other than elders can assume the role of a shepherd; mothers and fathers certainly do.

In the church were I attend we have a small group ministry where the leaders are called Growth Group Shepherds.
We are like little pastors.
We teach our small flock; we care for them instructing and training them up; we provide accountability and when necessary, dispense discipline.

Rob