|
Mentoring: one-to-one discipleship
Jesus calls us to be his disciples, and to make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).
Mentoring is the encouragement and ‘training’ of Christians to be more like Jesus; more mature Christians mentor those who want to grow in their faith. As the mentee grows and matures, in time they assume the role of mentoring another, passing on their experience and encouragement to the next generation.
The church family, a small group, and in particular a mentor, are vital in encouraging the mentee in growth and becoming rooted and grounded in their faith. The aim of one-to-one discipleship should be to support, challenge and encourage the mentee in their relationship with Jesus, through the relationship the mentor has with them.
What does the bible say about it?
How did Jesus make disciples? Jesus picked 12 from a larger group and invested in them to ensure the lasting nature of his mission. When he left them, he knew there could be at least an eleven-fold multiplication of his ministry! The Apostle Paul followed in Jesus' example of investing in a few. In 2 Timothy 2: 2, Paul says; "What you have heard from me through many witnesses, entrust to faithful people who will be able to teach others as well". In Paul's letters to Timothy, he passes on his knowledge, experience and passion to a younger person. Paul also sees the potential that Timothy has and encourages him to use the gifts God has given him! Paul builds a meaningful and close relationship with Timothy. He cares for his spiritual and physical well being. He cared about his needs and Paul’s own writings tell us that he loved him like a son.
How do one-to-ones work at St George's?
There isn't one specific way to mentor someone effectively. It is very much based on the individual and what their needs are; different people will be at different stages. To help the mentee see how much they've progressed in a year, it is beneficial to agree on some goals, what they want to develop in, to write it down, keep adding to it and to keep referring to it. Working towards targets helps to keep the relationship productive rather than letting it drift.
Breathe*
Leaving home and moving to a strange city where you don't know anyone can be really difficult. Loneliness is common and friendships become more important than ever. Add the demands of managing life on a student loan, learning how to cope with the pressures and temptations of student life, and often working out who you are, having someone to talk to would be great wouldn't it?
Your time at university will be life changing, so why not make it a time of massive growth? Get stuck into church; make it a part of your life that stays constant. Why not get a mentor who will journey with you?
If you think you would like a mentor (or are someone in the church and would like a mentee!) contact Victoria Bull and you can meet to discuss it. |
|
| | |
|
Victoria Bull
Intern
Email or call 0113 243 1926
|
|
|
|
| |
