St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of the Abbot's care for delinquent brethren, drawing inspiration from the words of Jesus that the sick need a physician. The Abbot is urged to seek wise counsel and support from mature brethren to guide and console those who are wavering, encouraging them to seek reconciliation and not be overwhelmed by grief. It is crucial for the Abbot to show utmost care and diligence in nurturing weak souls, following the example of the Good Shepherd who compassionately seeks out the lost sheep to bring them back to the flock.

Zac Poonen preaches on the role of shepherds in the church, drawing from Ezekiel 34 to highlight the contrast between hirelings who seek their own gain and true shepherds who sacrificially care for and protect the flock. He emphasizes the importance of spiritual fathers who go beyond preaching to personally care for and strengthen the spiritually sick and lost, likening them to shepherds who fight against spiritual enemies to deliver the lambs. Poonen warns that the failure of shepherds can lead God's people into spiritual Babylon, urging aspiring elders to see it as a noble work of serving and blessing others rather than seeking titles or honor.