Thursday, March 7, 2013

Mentor Worthy?

Paul writes to young believers in the Corinthian church who are struggling with issues like faith-formation, attitude adjustments, and the demands of the Christian faith.  These immature believers had yet to "put it all together."  He actually challenges them in 1 Corinthians 4:16 to look to his life as an example.  He writes, "So I urge you to imitate me."  (NLT)

I wonder how many of us would dare to say to someone younger in the faith, “Imitate my life.”  Would our faith-example bear-up under such scrutiny?  Would our words, lifestyle, and dedication be Christ-like enough to welcome someone's imitation?  Probably not.  In fact, most of us would be petrified with the notion of welcoming someone's close watch of our conduct and faith.  And yet, such role modeling is vitally needed.  In fact, I would suggest that it is our inability to mentor those younger in the faith that continues to weaken the witness of Christ to our culture.  In other words, many of us are not “mentor worthy” because we don't want to be “mentor worthy.”  We don't want to be held to such a high standard because such faith would require so much of us.  We would have to be disciplined in our words, our conduct, and our relationships.  Authenticity and consistency would be required of us and most of us simply are unwilling to pay such a price.  We shirk our responsibilities in exchange for an easier, less-demanding lifestyle.  May God forbid.  And may God forgive our casual Christianity.  The world needs mentors.  Your children need mentors.  Your co-workers need mentors.  There is great competition for the very souls of your friends and family.  Are you willing to simply concede the battle to the enemies of faith?  Or will you take on the challenge of being a worthy mentor?  Whether you want them to do so or not, people have already begun to imitate your faith.  Be worthy.

2 comments:

  1. Jesus wanted his disciples to imitate Him. He didn't tell them to imitate each other. But, we all do it. The problem is that "all fall short" including myself. Any earthly mentor will eventually domonstrate unworthiness. So, a part of my responsibility to mentor involves accepting my imperfection and individual need for redemption. I believe that is as "worthy" as I'll ever get.

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  2. I guess this is a reminder that we as believers have the HOLY SPIRIT dwelling in us and when called upon to lead, teach or confess, to ask for his words not our own to come out. Thanks for the challenge to not be afraid to let GOD shine through.
    Thanks Dr. Jon

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