Frank Viola, Reimagining Church, Chapter 12, Re-magining authority and submission
A few thoughts....
Firstly I've never heard of the 'shepherding movement' , but it would have been nice to have a bit more history on in. Especially from a non US christian background.
Frank has some interesting definitions in this chapter which I think are helpful in summing up the chapter.
Subjection:: Absolute
Obedience:: Conditional
Authority:: An action carried out without hindrance. Authority is never over other believers. The New Testament authority is new linked to Church leaders or other Christians. It is not the same authority as government officials have.
Organic authority:: Rooted in a persons life of 'word and deed' or has it from the 'Lord himself' (Mmm subjective), often confirmed by the community. It is always based on function and service rather than 'Spirituality'.
Viola calls for a mutual subjection between believers. Which (I like), is rooted in the Trinity.