Discipling or Mentoring blog post

Over the past fifteen or twenty years there has been a shift from using term “making disciples” to “mentoring”.   I have for some time used the terms interchangeably.  I have been discipled and mentored and I believe that both are crucial for our development as Christ followers.

A “mentor” is commonly defined as “a wise and trusted counselor and teacher.” The word “mentor” comes to us from the classical tradition. It is originally the name of a character in the Odyssey, an old and trusted friend of Odysseus who was left behind as the warriors embarked for Troy to keep an eye on Odysseus’ household. Odysseus’ son, Telemakhos, was increasingly incensed by the disrespect shown his parents, but uncertain of what to do. At this point, Mentor played his important role as a wise counselor to the headstrong, wavering young man.

As followers of Christ we are commanded to make disciples. Paul clearly defines what we are to do in . Our ultimate goal is Christlikeness in those we disciple. We must be careful to always point men and women to Jesus.

If we are going to “make disciples” there are at least three things that must be true. First of all, we must be Christ’s disciples ourselves. Secondly, we must know what a disciple is.  Finally, I must know how to make one. A good understanding of how Jesus made disciples is critical. 

“Christ is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. 29 To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.”

There is a place for mentoring and I will address that in another post.