Mentoring that Forms Leaders like Jesus: A Framework for Pastor Training
Summary
This extended First Monday Gathering explored how mentoring can strengthen pastor training by supporting the development of Christlike character, values, and spiritual maturity alongside knowledge and ministry skills.
Steve Irvin of MentorLink presented a framework for transformational mentoring, defining mentoring as intentionally joining another person’s life journey and serving as one of God’s instruments in their growth. He outlined four key elements of mentoring:
- prayerfully seeking God’s guidance,
- intentionally investing in relationships,
- serving as a source of encouragement and perspective,
- and helping others become and do all God desires.
Participants were encouraged to listen well, ask thoughtful questions, practice vulnerability, and prioritize spiritual formation over mere activity.
The session also introduced practical mentoring tools and resources available through MentorLink:
- The Five Transformational Values of Jesus
- Leading like Jesus
- Days with Jesus video discipleship and mentoring tool
- MentorLink Institute modules
- Mentoring4Transformation podcast
A recurring theme was multiplication—developing leaders who invest in others—rather than pursuing personal prominence. The group broke out into language-based breakout discussions focused on practical application within diverse ministry contexts. The gathering concluded with Robby Richard asking attendees to reflect on these questions:
- Who is mentoring me?
- Who am I mentoring?
- Who could I begin walking alongside in the next six months?
- How might mentoring become a more intentional part of our pastor-training ministry?
Click here to view MentorLink’s presentation.
Reflective Questions:
- How has a mentor, peer, or spiritual friend shaped your character and leadership more deeply than formal training alone?
- What aspects of your own heart, character, or spiritual formation would benefit most from intentional mentoring?
Action-Oriented Questions:
- Who could you intentionally begin walking alongside as a mentor during the next six months, and what first step could you take this week?
- How might mentoring become a more intentional component of your existing pastor training ministry without replacing the training you already provide?
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