Publication at Protestant Theological Faculty |
2023
Abstract
A cross-cutting study of Old Testament inspiration for contemporary pastoral ministry, based on an analysis of the shepherd metaphor in the Old Testament. In cultures adjacent to the Old Testament, this metaphor has made a successful career as the standard title of ruler.
In the NT it is used more critically with the emphasis on the Lord being the only true shepherd. This does not, however, absolve the patrons of Bible-inspired societies of the obligation to behave as shepherds toward their clients, especially by facilitating their (re)integration into the flock.