Soul Watchers and the Nature of Their "Rule"

In this episode, we compare the six words that can be translated as "rule." Three are used to describe the shepherd. It is an unfortunate translation and depicts the leadership of one whose example is set forth as a pattern of life to follow. This correlates with the role of a spiritual shepherd who never expects sheep to go where he is unwilling to go. He takes the initiative in any anticipated act of discipleship. The sheep hear his voice and follow his lead. The Greek proistime points to this idea as one who goes before others as a pioneer or captain that leads leads his men into into battle. This is the nature of his rule.

Furthermore, the object of their rule is souls, not congregations. The souls lived in the cities where they were appointed either by apostles or evangelists for the same purpose for which they were chosen, namely, equipping saints for the work of service.

The shepherd has a heritage that has been committed to his charge and the chief shepherd will hold them accountable to lead in the same way that He led when becoming a man (Heb. 2:14). Leadership was never to be exercised over an organization that would require decision-making and the making of policy for local church administration. Without it and shepherds are left to overseeing individual souls, there is no need for decision-making.