October 8, 2025
In the last post, we considered the dangers of failed shepherds. So what is the antidote? The answer lies in rediscovering our identity as undershepherds.
Sheep Before Shepherd
Every leader must first recognize their dual role: that of both sheep and shepherd. Psalm 23 reveals David, the king of Israel, declaring: “The Lord is my shepherd.” Before he led a nation, he acknowledged his dependence on God.
This order is essential. Leaders who attempt to shepherd without first being shepherded drift into self-reliance. But leaders who embrace their identity as sheep find strength, guidance, and renewal in the Great Shepherd.
The Undershepherd Defined
An undershepherd is a steward entrusted with God’s flock. The flock does not belong to us; it belongs to Him. Our task is to reflect His heart, not our own ambition.
This counters modern distortions of leadership. Today’s culture often elevates leaders as owners, visionaries, or influencers. Scripture reminds us: we are none of these. We are servants, accountable to God for how we care for His people.
Biblical Witness
Peter captures this identity powerfully in 1 Peter 5:2–4: “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you… not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”
Notice: it is the flock of God, not ours. Leaders serve under the Chief Shepherd’s authority and await His evaluation.
Reflection for Leaders
Do you see yourself more as a steward or as an owner?
How would your leadership change if you fully embraced the identity of an undershepherd?
An Invitation
This post draws from themes in my book Kingdom over Culture: Restoring Biblical Leadership in a Secularized Church. If you’d like to go deeper, you can order the book here https://drmeredithjames.com/shop. I also offer workshops, staff trainings, and speaking engagements on shepherd leadership and other frameworks for kingdom leadership. To learn more or invite me to work with your team, connect with me here https://drmeredithjames.com/.
