Jesus as Model Pastor
293
took Me in: naked, and ye clothed Me: I was sick, and ye visited
Me: I was in prison, and ye came unto Me.” God’s servants should
have hearts of tender affection and sincere love for the followers of
Christ. They should manifest that deep interest that Christ brings to
view in the care of the shepherd for the lost sheep; they should follow
the example given by Christ and exercise the same compassion and
gentleness, and the same tender, pitying love that He has exercised
toward us.—
Testimonies for the Church 3:186
.
Love, mercy, and compassion were displayed in every act of
Jesus ministry—In describing His earthly mission, Jesus said, “The
Lord hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent
Me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives,
and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are
bruised.” This was His work. He went about doing good, and healing
all that were oppressed by Satan. There were whole villages where
there was not a moan of sickness in any house; for He had passed
through them, and healed all their sick. His work gave evidence of
His divine anointing. Love, mercy, and compassion were displayed
in every act of His life. His heart went out in tender sympathy to the
children of men. He took man’s nature, that He might reach man’s
wants. The poorest and humblest were not afraid to approach Him.
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Even little children were attracted to Him. They loved to climb upon
His knees, and gaze into that pensive face, benignant with love.—
Bible
Training School, January 1, 1909
.
Shepherds who work under the Chief Shepherd are to be ever
interested in others—The Good Shepherd came to seek and to save
that which was lost. He has manifested in His works His love for
His sheep. All the shepherds who work under the Chief Shepherd
will possess His characteristics; they will be meek and lowly of heart.
Childlike faith brings rest to the soul and also works by love and is
ever interested for others. If the Spirit of Christ dwells in them, they
will be Christlike and do the works of Christ.—
Testimonies for the
Church 4:377
.
Servant Leader
To succeed as Jesus succeeded, lead humbly as Jesus led—
Jesus, the dear Saviour, has given marked lessons in humility to all,