When a pastor doesn't have the calling and the gift of a shepherd, he will end up lording over the people, controlling them, and will never release them to go do what God called them to do. His main concern is to keep the flock under his own wings because of the tithes and offerings he receives from them, and because he doesn't want to give the appearance to the outside world that his congregation is decreasing. Therefore, he will typically tell those of his church members who wants to step out and start their own ministry that they are “not ready” and shouldn't leave, but instead they have to continue to stay under his authority till he decides when they are potentially ready to do anything! A true shepherd, on the other hand. cares for the flock that God has entrusted to him. He watches over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what he will get out of it, but because he is eager to serve God. He doesn't lord it over the people assigned to his care, but lead them by his own good example. (See 1. Peter 5:2-3) A true shepherd understands that his responsibility is to equip God’s people TO DO GOD'S WORK!!! (See Ephesians 4:12)
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