Cyprian of Carthage, through a letter from the Roman clergy, is reminded of his duty to shepherd the flock during his absence, emphasizing the importance of standing firm in the faith amidst persecution and idolatry. The clergy urge Cyprian to be a good shepherd, not a hireling, and to exhort the brethren to repent and remain steadfast in their beliefs, even if faced with fear and danger. They stress the need to care for the fallen, the sick, widows, prisoners, and catechumens, and to ensure the proper burial of martyrs and others, highlighting the rewards of faithful service and the importance of unity and support within the Church.

John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of being a good shepherd, drawing parallels between the shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep and Christ who sacrificed Himself for humanity. He emphasizes the need for shepherds to care for and protect their flock, contrasting the selfless dedication of a shepherd with the selfishness of hirelings. Chrysostom highlights Christ's unwavering commitment to His sheep, even in the face of opposition and danger, showcasing His ultimate act of love by laying down His life for all. He delves into the significance of Christ's resurrection, proving His divine power and authority over life and death.

Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of agreement in heart and spirit for true fellowship, using Amos 3:3 to illustrate that two cannot walk together unless they are in harmony. He explains that mere intellectual agreement is insufficient; true unity requires shared feelings and affections. Finney discusses how differing states of the heart affect perceptions of truth and spiritual matters, leading to discord between saints and sinners. He warns that lukewarmness in faith can lead to dissatisfaction with fervent preaching and spiritual revival, as those whose hearts are not aligned with God will resist the truth. Ultimately, he calls for a transformation of the heart to enable genuine agreement and fellowship in Christ.

Thomas Brooks addresses the critical role of shepherds in the church, emphasizing that true ministers should prioritize the spiritual nourishment of their congregations over personal gain. He condemns unholy ministers who seek to please people rather than profit their souls, highlighting their negligence in preaching God's commands and their focus on material benefits. Brooks warns against those who prioritize traditions and human commands over divine truth, ultimately leading to the starvation of their flocks' spiritual needs. He calls for a return to genuine ministry that feeds the soul and uplifts Christ rather than self. The sermon serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities of spiritual leaders.

John Chrysostom preaches on the selection of Matthias as an Apostle to replace Judas, emphasizing the importance of prayer, unity, and seeking God's guidance in making decisions. He highlights the challenges and responsibilities of being a bishop, urging humility and selflessness in aspiring to leadership roles within the Church. Chrysostom warns against seeking positions of authority for personal gain or prestige, stressing the need for genuine care and concern for the spiritual well-being of others. He illustrates the demanding nature of the episcopate, where bishops face constant scrutiny, criticism, and the weight of immense responsibilities, calling for a deep sense of dedication and sacrifice in serving the Church.