use of the word “soul” (psuchē).20 If this is the case, then it is absolutely vital for leaders to know whom they are responsible to shepherd. Are they accountable for those who attend a worship service once, twice, or for six months? The seriousness of this verse does not allow for any guesswork. By not formally joining a church, a person is essentially communicating to the leadership that they do not want to be held accountable. In contrast, when a Christian becomes a member of a church, he is placing