In the Old Testament "shepherd" is roeh, from the word raah, which means "to feed" or "to pasture." The Hebrew indicates a herder of domestic animals. Rulers in the Old Testament times were often called "shepherds" of their people. King David is the best example of this fact. He began as a shepherd, authored the Bible's best-known psalm and was a man after God's own heart. Moses is another well-known example of a shepherd. He was used to lead God's people out of Egypt and brought them to the Promised Land. | ||||
The New Testament word for "shepherd" is poimen. The verb poimaino means, "to act as a shepherd," "to care for the flock." Jesus told Peter to, "Feed my Lambs," "Take care of my sheep," and "Feed my sheep" (John 21:15-17). The Ephesian elders were admonished, "Keep watch over yourselves and over all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers" (Acts 20:28). Peter charges other elders, "Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers" (1 Peter 5:2). In each passage, the shepherds' attitude of loving concern for the sheep is emphasized. | ||||