I'm sure you remember the three key elements to mentoring: we share parts of our story so as to identify with our students, we share the gospel, we pray for our students. We do this within the framework of asking questions, probing the heart, listening to the soul, and hearing their story.
By the way, here are some questions you might consider asking, even while coming up with your own to use as well:
"Jim, you mentioned being sad over your previous sin; do you sense that you are finding some comfort by coming to the cross of Jesus Christ and learning to wash there? What are your thoughts?"
"Susan, thank you for sharing your heart-pain at the death of your husband. How long ago was it? How are you dealing with this pain up until now? I'm really wanting to pray for you."
"Lisa, when you say you turn to food for comfort, do you mean you like the feeling of being full and satisfied? I'm just trying to get to the heart of what you're saying, so I can remember the threats and temptations you are dealing with."
"Brad, thanks for sharing that when you travel is when you're tempted the most. Can you share with me what it is about traveling that seems to bring the temptations? Is it just that you have the opportunity when you travel that you don't when you're home? Or is it feelings of loneliness and isolation? Or what is the root issue do you think? Thanks for sharing with me, as I no doubt have faced or face the same issues and we can pray for each other through them."
Today, we have a sample student for you to whom you can ask questions, and provide answers. These are actual course lessons, and the response is one from an actual student. This is designed to be an enjoyable experience for you where you can ask questions of your student and give feedback to him or her, and receive constructive input from your mentor. Please be open to your mentor's feedback as it is a chance for you to grow in the skill of mentoring.
As you share parts of your story with this "student," remember the gospel. How did the cross of Christ cut your heart and heal it? How did the cross change your perspective and understanding of your war against the devil, the world, and your flesh? How did/does the death and resurrection of Jesus help you to experience victory and freedom from habitual sin?
All programs and religions have testimonials, people telling their stories about how "God" changed them, but only Christians have testimonies that are focused on Christ and the power of His cross. Be sure that when you share your story with the student that Jesus and His cross, and His resurrection power are the focus.
Below are the sample students. Just pick the course you are desiring to mentor in and provide a gospel response to the student. At Setting Captives Free, men mentor men and women mentor women so please answer the appropriate sample student of your chosen course or courses.
1. Jack (male) or Athena (female) has enrolled in the Setting Captives Free Purity course.
Lesson 1 Question 2. Do you identify with this type of slavery to pornography or other types of sexual impurity? Please share your personal experience:
Student response: I can identify with this feeling of bondage. I knew I was doing wrong, but I was deceived, thinking I wasn't hurting anyone, and it just affected me. At the moment, I wasn’t thinking about the consequences, I was thinking about pleasure. And even though I felt terrible afterward and resolved not to go back...after a week or two of resistance I would.
2. Tanya (female) or Jim (male) is enrolled in the Depression course.
Lesson 1 Question 1. Please share with us what brings you here to Setting Captives Free, and specifically to this course on depression.
Student response: I've struggled with depression for years, honestly, I don't really remember ever not struggling...except for about a year after I was first saved. I experienced such joy when I first started walking with God, for that year or so, it seemed like nothing could bring me down. I decided to give this course a try now because usually, depression goes in short seasons for me, I'm not sure if it's age (mid-life), but I have been down for such a long time now...it's hard to breath most days.
3. Tina (female) or Ridge (male) has a problem with Media Addiction.
Lesson 1 Question 5. For our final question of the day, please describe why you are here and what you hope to accomplish by studying with us. Thank you.
Student response: I am here because I know my lifestyle is not according to the Bible when it comes to media addiction. I think I´ll be a better believer, spouse, and employee when I´m free from it.
4. John (male) Tamara (female) has enrolled in the A United Front course.
Lesson 1 Question 4 I recall in my own situation that I had many emotions when Mike and I were walking through this particular part of our journey together. What are your feelings about everything that has happened thus far?
Student Response: I am tired of doing this so many times, I am devastated that again I have been lied to.
5. Ted (male) or Nancy (female) has enrolled in the Weight Loss course.
Lesson 1 Question 4. Are you desiring to experience this freedom and transformation? Please share your thoughts:
Student Response: "I desire freedom. I desire transformation. I have made an idol of food and it rules most of my thoughts every day."
Question 6. Please ask questions of your student, and respond to your student using parts of your own story to identify with them. Remember the gospel!
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