Servant-mentor ∙∙

Servant-mentor ∙∙

Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others. – 2 Timothy 2:2

Exodus 18:17-24

 17 This is not good! Moses’ father-in-law exclaimed.

 18 You’re going to wear yourself out – and the people, too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself.

 19 Now listen to me, and let me give you a word of advice, and may God be with you. You should continue to be the people’s representative before God, bringing their disputes to him.

 20 Teach them God’s decrees and give them his instructions. Show them how to conduct their lives.

 21 But select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as leaders over groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten.

 22 They should always be available to solve the people’s common disputes, but have them bring the major cases to you. Let the leaders decide the smaller matters themselves. They will help you carry the load, making the task easier for you.

 23 If you follow this advice, and if God commands you to do so, then you will be able to endure the pressures, and all these people will go home in peace.

 24 Moses listened to his father-in-law’s advice and followed his suggestions.

In Greek mythology, when Odysseus, also known as Ulysses, set off for Troy, he entrusted Mentor with managing his household. Mentor was a trusted friend and loyal advisor to Odysseus. He was given the responsibility of guiding and educating Telemachus, Odysseus’ son. Over time, Mentor evolved into Telemachus’ protector and trusted advisor.

This story of Mentor’s guidance and support served as a model of a mentor. The term “mentor” in English originates from this tale. Today, a mentor is seen as a wise and trusted counselor or teacher who offers invaluable guidance and support.

Mentoring involves a long-term relationship focused on nurturing the mentee’s growth and development. The mentor provides wisdom, education, direction, and encouragement.

Successful mentoring requires the mentor’s willingness and ability to serve and the mentee’s openness to guidance and instruction. Disengaged mentors or resistant mentees can disrupt this dynamic relationship.

While the term “mentor” isn’t found in the Scriptures, there are many examples of mentoring relationships:

• Jethro -> Moses
• Moses -> Joshua
• Naomi -> Ruth
• Mordecai -> Esther
• Barnabas -> Paul
• Paul -> Timothy

Jethro, who was Moses’ father-in-law, possessed remarkable wisdom and insight. He took on the role of mentoring Moses, who had assumed the overwhelming task of resolving conflicts among the people. Recognizing the strain on Moses, Jethro astutely observed the situation and promptly realized that Moses was burdened beyond his capacity. Consequently, Jethro counseled Moses to alter his approach. Moreover, he offered practical and actionable steps that yielded remarkable results.

Exodus 18:21-23

 21 But select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as leaders over groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten.

 22 They should always be available to solve the people’s common disputes, but have them bring the major cases to you. Let the leaders decide the smaller matters themselves. They will help you carry the load, making the task easier for you.

 23 . . . then you will be able to endure the pressures, and all these people will go home in peace.

REFLECT & PRAY

Servant mentorship thrives on solid relational bonds. It involves clearly communicating the nature of the relationship and shared values, building on the mentor’s ability to empower and guide mentees.

Father, thank You for the mentors You have placed in my life. Please help me to mentor others as I have been mentored.

INSIGHT

Barnabas grew into an exceptional servant-mentor. Recognizing his abilities, the leaders of the Jerusalem church entrusted him with guiding and mentoring the new believers in Antioch. Barnabas invited Paul to join him in this mission (Acts 11:26). Throughout their travels, Barnabas undoubtedly encouraged Paul to use and develop his spiritual gifts. Barnabas mentored Paul, and we know how that story played out.

Barnabas performed a pivotal role in encouraging John Mark. During Paul’s first missionary journey, John Mark faltered, failed miserably, and abandoned his responsibilities, leading Paul to deem him unreliable (Acts 13:13). This caused a rift between Paul and Barnabas (Acts 15:36-39). Paul refused to take John Mark on his second journey.

Barnabas, who had once taken a risk on Paul, now took a risk on John Mark, demonstrating the essence of a servant-mentor. That is what servant-mentors do. He gave John Mark a second chance, allowing him to overcome his past and serve effectively (2 Timothy 4:11).

There’s more to this story. Without Barnabas’ encouragement and mentorship, Paul might never have been accepted by those he once persecuted nor become the author of thirteen New Testament books. Similarly, without Barnabas’ support, the Gospel of Mark might never have been written.

Servant-mentors inspire their mentees by showing belief in them, often restoring them to wholeness and usefulness. An encourager motivates those they serve to believe in themselves and strive for their best.

When Barnabas met Paul, he introduced him to the hesitant leaders of the Jerusalem church (Acts 9:27-28). Later, Barnabas supported the rejected John Mark, taking him to Cyprus to mentor those in need (Acts 15:39).

Barnabas, the Father’s humble and effective servant-mentor, indirectly contributed to the creation of 13 New Testament books.

Servant-mentors focus on encouraging and training those in their care, aiming to work themselves out of a job eventually. They pour their lives into others, who may go on to make a significant impact. When the mentee succeeds, the mentor celebrates their achievements.

In the early accounts of Paul and Barnabas’ travels in the book of Acts, Luke initially refers to them as “Barnabas and Saul” (Acts 11:26; 13:2). However, after their time in Cyprus, the order changes to “Paul and Barnabas” (Acts 13:13).

Why the change? The Father chose to bless Paul’s efforts in extraordinary ways, and Barnabas gracefully took a supporting role, undoubtedly rejoicing in his mentee’s success.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯4-13-1

© Dr. H 2024