Shepherding Movement, The

<<extreme discipling>>

The prominence and impact of this controversial method of leadership within the worldwide church has largely disappeared. It was renowned for its manipulation and intimidatory tactics through the concept of spiritual covering which relies on a strict submission to authority and a rigid, tiered method of application. Today it is sometimes still evidenced in what is called ‘the covenant movement’.

The use of the term Shepherding, in this context, began as a method of discipleship and accountability but reverted to enslavement, illustrating Paul’s observation of beginning in the Spirit, then mutating into an activity of human effort involving blind, unquestioning compliance to authority, resulting in interference with and an unhealthy reliance upon others (Gal 3:3). While it is not wrong to submit (indeed it is necessary for the proper functioning of society), this concept has been taken beyond biblical principles and guidelines to ‘bossing’ others around (Rom 13:1; Eph 5:21; 1 Pet 5:2,3). It is a wise safeguard to humbly seek advice and guidance from those more mature, but God is our ultimate master (and Great Shepherd) to whom we will be accountable (Prov 11:14; Mt 12:36; Act 5:29; Rom 3:19; Heb 13:20; 1 Pet 5:4).