The Co-Shepherd Metaphor: An Examination of the Ecclesial Leader

The Co-Shepherd Metaphor: An Examination of the Ecclesial Leader’s Identity Formation Using a Sociorhetorical Analysis of Acts 20:17-38 and 1 Peter 5:1-11

Adam Schwenk | 2020

Abstract

The research examined the role of the shepherd metaphor in the context of an ecclesial leadership team. The study utilized sociorhetorical analysis on the content in Acts 20:17-38 and 1 Peter 5:1-11 in order to observe the relationship between shared leadership theory and the ecclesial team’s identity formation of shepherding. The research revealed positive convergence of the constructs. Specifically, the results demonstrated five themes: teamwork, shepherding techniques, humility, mentorship, and perseverance. Also, these themes produced 10 principles for ecclesial leaders to implement in their organizations. For instance, the first principle is that teamwork shares the workload. Further, the results revealed the potential for a new shared ecclesial leadership theory to be tested.