Titus is another early Christian who Paul mentored. This is yet another example of how important it was that Barnabas worked as a mentor for Paul. In the book of Titus, Paul mentions the concept of mentorship as few different times, specifically in reference to the older people mentoring the younger ones.
Women Mentors
“Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.” (The Open Bible) Titus 2:3-5
In this scripture, the intended recipients are women. They are told how they should behave and act so that they may be mentors to younger women who are looking up to them. This is important to show that every aspect of the mentor’s life will have an impact on their mentees. The scripture names a few things that are important to note:
- Mentors should behave kindly to others, not talking them down or making fun of them.
- Mentors should only teach good things to their mentees.
- Mentors should practice self-control, kindness, and love since they will set an example for others.
Mentors must always remember that someone is watching and looking up to them. If they behave in the wrong manner, they may be essentially telling someone else that this particular behavior is acceptable.
Men Mentors
“Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” (The Open Bible) – Titus 2:6-8
This scripture in Titus, which is directed toward the men, points out a few different things that were actually discussed in other scriptures too. This tells us that these concepts are just that important for mentorship. They are mentioned more than once to give them more weight.
This verse says that men should:
- Create an exemplary example for the younger men through self-control and respect.
- Be a model of good works to show the younger men how to perform good works themselves.
- Show characteristics of a very good role model, including integrity, dignity and honestly.
- Always act in a way so that they cannot be condemned or criticized by the people who would tear them down.
Mentors have the opportunity to become shining stars in the dark sky. They can offer guidance, but their words could fall on deaf ears if their actions do not reflect their mentorship as well. These people must act as a mentor and not just speak of things. This is the best way to have the most impact on people who look to them for guidance.
In the next article, we will discuss the consummate example of mentorship found in the Bible. The story of Jesus and His disciples doesn’t just give us a good example of what a good mentor looks like, but also specific actions that mentors need to take in order to lead the mentees properly.
Know that I am sending you the best that God has to offer you and I will see you up, up, and over the top.
