What is the Shepherding Movement?

Response

The Shepherding Movement is a contentious approach to church leadership that originated from the Charismatic movement in the 1970s. It is also known as the “Discipleship Movement” and is associated with heavy shepherding. Initially named “Christian Growth Ministries” in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, the Shepherding Movement peaked in the 1980s but has since waned in influence. Criticism of the Shepherding Movement is primarily due to its cult-like manipulation and intimidation tactics, as well as its promotion of the non-biblical concept of a “spiritual covering.”

At the core of the Shepherding Movement is the principle of submission to authority. This movement advocated for a leadership structure with five individuals at the apex of a global hierarchy. These leaders were accountable for each other’s spiritual well-being and were tasked with maintaining mutual accountability through “covenant relationships.” Below each of these five “shepherds” were five other individuals, accountable to one another but under the authority of their respective shepherd. This pattern continued down the line, with each group of five referred to as a “submission,” demonstrating unwavering devotion to their shepherds. Significant decisions, including those related to marriage and career, required consultation with one’s shepherd.

The Shepherding Movement established a hierarchical system for the church that lacks biblical support. By instituting a structure of submission and authority, the original five “shepherds” promoted a legalistic framework that stifled the work of the Holy Spirit and subjected believers to spiritual abuse by authoritarian figures. According to Scripture, Christ is the head of the church, and all members are to seek guidance, provision, and protection from Him «For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. », (Ephesians 5:23). The Shepherding Movement erected barriers between Christ and His church, establishing an unnecessary and detrimental chain of command. Individuals within the movement were faced with a decision between the authority of their shepherd and the authority of the Great Shepherd.

Numerous original leaders of the Shepherding Movement or Discipleship Movement have acknowledged that the movement was an error and have distanced themselves from it. However, what extent of harm was inflicted? The church must be cautious of those seeking to exploit them. Just as Paul cautioned the Ephesians, “Savage wolves will infiltrate among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own ranks, individuals will emerge and twist the truth to entice disciples to follow them. Therefore, stay vigilant!” (Acts 20:29-31).