THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Upon his arrival, he revealed himself to many shepherds, drawing upon his extensive experience in shepherding. His familiarity with this task is clear from his statements: “It is not time to gather the cattle; give the sheep a drink, and go and feed them.” The Apostles, being spiritual shepherds and skilled guides towards God, demonstrated this quickly by engaging actively in their rightful duties. They proclaimed the teachings of Christ, encouraging others to act in ways that would be beneficial, much like the divine James clarified to the shepherds of Harran, affirming his role as a shepherd by saying, “Behold, the day is yet many; it is not time to gather the cattle; give the sheep a drink, and go and shepherd.” Do you hear how he instructs the shepherds to tend to their sheep?
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Likewise, the wise disciple urged the elders or bishops of the community, saying, “Shepherds... I beseech you, fellow shepherd and witness of Christ's sufferings, and partner in the glory that is to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God, which ye have” of Christ (1 Pet. 5:1-2). When they spread into various nations and cities, they urged the communities to appoint additional shepherds who would care for the flock of the Word, guiding them towards a nourishing pasture, drawing them to the abundant grass of divinely inspired Scripture, for the Word of God serves as fulfilling sustenance for the soul. Therefore, spiritual shepherds are to be guided in their duties: nurture the growth in the field, harvest the grass, and gather hay in the appropriate season, so that you may have sheep to clothe you. Additionally, the Divine disciples acted as teachers of the nations, imparting truths to their listeners that surpassed the teachings of their own shepherds, that is, the wise men and instructors of the time.