4. Biblical Mentors

This material is taken more or less directly from our text book by the late John Mallison: Mentoring to Develop Disciples and Leaders

BIBLICAL MODELS

There are numerous examples of mentoring in the Scriptures. Some of the better known ones are excellent role models for mentors.

JETHRO AND MOSES

Jethro rescued his son-in-law from inevitable burnout by teaching him to delegate (Exodus 18).

MOSES AND JOSHUA

Moses groomed Joshua for his mammoth task of leading Israel into the Promised Land (Dent 31:1-8; 34:9).

MOSES AND CALEB

Moses no doubt had a significant influence on Caleb, resulting in his becoming an outstanding leader, through to his senior years (Num 13; 14:6-9; 34:16-19; Josh 14:6-15).

SAMUEL AND SAUL

Samuel recognised great leadership potential in Saul and sought to mould and guide him, continuing to do so even after his spiritual demise (1 Sam 9:15).

SAMUEL AND DAVID

Samuel was clearly guided to David as a most unlikely leader initially, because of his age and stature. He then protected him from harm because of Saul's jealousy and mental instability (1 Sam 16; 19:18-24),

JONATHAN AND DAVID

This was an equal relationship, with both receiving and giving. They offer an excellent example of co-mentoring or peer mentoring in the depth of their commitment to each other and their families (1 Sam 18:1-4; 19:1-7; 20:1-42).

ELIJAH AND ELISHA

Elijah, who saw in Elisha someone who could continue his ministry, discipled him and eventually 'passed his baton' on to him. He was also open to be blessed by Elisha (1 Kings 19:16-21; 2 Kings 2: 1 – 16; 3:11)

BARNABAS

Barnabas had a strong gift in encouragement. Indeed his name means 'son of encouragement' (Acts 4:36). He was a godly, joyous person. Acts 11:23,24 tells us he was Spirit-filled, a man of faith and an effective evangelist. The Christian church owes so much to him for his mentoring of Paul. He recognised the potential in Paul when other believers distanced themselves from him after his conversion (Acts 9:27).

He stood by Paul when he most needed a faithful friend (Acts 13:50) and celebrated with him when the church endorsed his ministry (Acts 13:2).

Barnabas stood by John Mark when he faltered, confronting Paul

felt he was out of God's will in his handling of John Mark.

He worked with John Mark, enabling him to eventually become a great support to Paul, and the one who many believe was the primary author of the gospel of Mark (Acts 15:36-39; 2 Tim 4:11).

Mallison strongly emphasizes the value of reflection in learning from our experiences. Was it Barnabas' critical reflection that made him depart from Paul? When Paul matured in ministry, Barnabas, like John the Baptist, was able to step aside and let him take centre stage (Acts 11:26 — cf Acts 13:50).

PAUL

Paul saw great promise in Timothy, so he mentored him, giving this emerging leader wise guidance and opportunities for hands-on experience as they travelled together. This resulted in the young church at Ephesus being enriched by having Timothy as their pastor. Luke says the churches in Lystra and Iconium spoke well of him (Acts 16:2). Paul's two letters to Timothy show some idea of how he discipled, instructed, encouraged and coached him (Phil 2:19-23).

PRISCILLA AND AQUILA WITH APOLLOS

Along with husband Aquila, Priscilla was one of the most distinguished of Paul's fellow-workers. Of the five times her name is mentioned, three times it comes before that of her husband. It was clearly believed that she was the more gifted leader. Both had deep knowledge of the Scriptures. They counselled and helped Apollos in his preaching methods and content, because of his weakness in these areas. ‘They expounded to him the way of God more carefully (Acts l8:26, The Message). The duration of the time of their friendship we do not know, but Apollos became a mighty spokesperson for the gospel and was called an apostle. The Corinthians put him before Peter and Paul. Much of his success must be attributed to the wise and patient counsel of Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18:2; 18:26; Rom 16:3; 1 Cor 16:19; 2 Tim 4: 19)

EUNICE AND LOIS

As mother and grandmother, they must have mentored young Timothy till he became a convert and mentoree of Paul. Eunice, having a Gentile husband would have found in her mother, Lois, a source of encouragement, especially in Jewish matters, for both were of the Jewish faith (Acts 16: l -3; 2 Tim 1- 5; 3:14, 15; 4:5)

JESUS is our Prime Role Model. My next post will take up that theme. 

Quote of the Day:
"Moses as a mentor provided a great lesson in how to transfer leadership...he gave the proper direction, teaching, and recognition to prepare Joshua to fulfill his role in life." (Faith Centred Mentoring and More)

Which of these Biblical role models resonates most with your present context? Why?

Godshaped Mentoring is the site where Rev Viv records material shared in the Mentor Training events held in a partnership between two Baptist Churches in Auckland New Zealand in 2012 and 2013. The blog has been set up to ensure people who missed some aspect of of the training can catch up on the themes covered and skills taught, and so we can add insights and feedback as the programme takes shape.