PROTECT THE FLOCK
In a message to the leaders of the Ephesian church, Paul gave them the following instructions: "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock." (Acts 20:28-29) Paul knew that false teachers and preachers would invade the church with lies and false teachings. The leaders were to protect the flock from these people. It is the pastor's responsibility to protect the flock from falsehood.
Protecting the flock means the pastor must know what is being taught in the church. Many people besides the pastor, teach in churches and the pastor cannot attend every class. It is important that he know the material they are teaching and approve it. This is not for control, but doctrinal soundness.
There are two effective methods a pastor has to protect his flock. The first is by biblically sound preaching and teaching. This requires him to know God's word and share its truths with the church. As he does this, the church will learn and grow in God's knowledge. When the church knows God's word, they will then be capable of discerning the false teachers. The second is teaching and encouraging the church to study the Bible for themselves. Since no pastor can teach the entire Bible, except over a long period of time, people must study it for themselves.