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Mike White, David Hensley, and Bob Payne serve as "shepherds" for the Odessa church. They were selected by the church according to the principles penned by the apostle Paul in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. They are men who have accepted the mantle of leadership and the accompanying responsibilities to feed, protect, and guide the church of God.
Each of these men has a long history with the church. Mike has served in this capacity since the very early 1980's. Bob began his tenure as shepherd in 1991 as the church also enjoyed a centennial celebrattion. David was chosen as a servant-leader more recently, in early 2008.
The role of shepherd is only a portion of their description as leaders. In two separate contexts, the New Testament speaks of spiritual leaders who serve a threefold role as shepherds / bishops or overseers / and elders.
Acts 20:17, 28
From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church ... 28 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.
1 Peter 5:1-4
To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers - not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
An "elder" connotes someone with a degree of age and experience which has earned them a listening ear. A "shepherd" defends and provides for his sheep. An "overseer" or "bishop" (depending upon translation) is responsible for teaching, exhorting, and encouraging souls who have trained their sights on heaven, after the manner of the Christ (1 Peter 2:25).
Our shepherds are keenly aware of their dependence on the Master and his grace. They lead as servants, not as "lords." We, as a church, have been blessed by their willingness and capacity to serve.
Our "deacons" (lit. servants) are men who have been tasked by our shepherds in specific areas of service, freeing our shepherds, principally, to attend to their duties of helping people with their needs...watching over their souls. Our deacons are Brian Madsen (building and grounds), Cecil Knight (worship assemblies and life groups), and Scott White (education...and temporarily, treasury). These are faithful, spiritual men who help the church stay on track in our service to Jesus.
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