https://odb.org/MY/2021/12/28/great-wisdom-and-a-thousand-eyes
I think one of the challenges as shepherds and fellow believers is to deal with brethren holding a different point of view. It could be something radical or just a simple matter. It could be something as serious as being against the current Covid-19 vaccinations or just a matter of not wanting the mRNA vaccine or not wanting the booster shots. Some could be led by strange teachings or false teachers as enumerated by Jude, the half brother of Jesus. Or it could just be holding on to solid teachings but with a radical slant or taking a more extreme approach. There are diverse viewpoints and the challenge as leaders and fellow believers is how to navigate through all that while maintaining peace and harmony and discipline, not stifling growth but encouraging revival of the spirit.
So I agree that the shepherd needs great wisdom and a thousand eyes to examine the soul’s condition from every angle. How do we care well for people spiritually? We need to maintain discipline and standards but at the same time allow fresh ideas and approaches to germinate to revive the church.
I think the best way to have that wisdom is to pray more for our sheep and fellow brethren, something I’m guilty of not doing enough myself. Prayer brings us to the throne of God, to hear His heartbeat, to know His will, to listen to what He is doing in our midst. And that may not be the same as in other churches and communities as every church and community is unique and God could be working in different ways in different contexts. Whatever we do must be done within the context of the dynamics in play at the local church. With prayer, the Holy Spirit can work in our lives amd ultimately all these work have to be birthed and ignited by the Holy Spirit. May the Holy Spirit give everyone, leaders and followers alike, the wisdom to deal with diversity of views and bring a revival of our souls in our midst so that we may all actively participate in what God is doing among us!
Ronnie's Thoughts 