EXTRA! Ideas for Adults – Mentoring: Investing in Others – Session 6

Date: July 9, 2023

Paul and Timothy

The Point: Focus your mentoring on growth in Christ and in His Word.

Get Into the Study

Share the following before Question 1 to spark discussion.

As technology has advanced, computers have become increasingly capable of simulating reality with startling accuracy. According to a Business Insider article, “Media generated by artificial intelligence (AI) has been making serious headlines — especially videos designed to mimic someone, making it appear as though they’re saying or doing something they aren’t.” The phrase “deep fake” refers to video or audio generated by AI to portray something that didn’t really happen. One method of simulation uses the face-swapping technology highlighted in the “Deep Tom Cruise” video that became a Tik Tok sensation last year.

Tom Graham, CEO of the three-year-old Generative AI startup, Metaphysic, identifies his company’s endeavor as “interesting creative work.” For example, “they are currently working on director Robert Zemeckis’ new film for Miramax Studio starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright who age from their twenties to their eighties.” However, according to a Prindle Institute article, there are ethical considerations since “they mimic a person’s likeness without their permission.” The value or vice of a Deep Fake really depends on why the simulation is being generated in the first place.

The same is true for our tendency to imitate others. Although there are pitfalls to avoid, imitation of someone who resembles Christ is always a worthy endeavor. That’s really the heart of biblical mentorship—imitating someone who is imitating Jesus (1 Cor. 11:1).

Study the Bible

On June 8, the Oklahoma Sooners won the D1 Softball National Championship for the third year in a row. Two days before their victory over Florida State, the coach and several members of the team spoke boldly about their faith in a press conference with ESPN. The video went viral, drawing attention to the powerful work God has done within the team to transform lives and attitudes.

The theme of their collective comments was that ultimate joy is not found in softball, but in Jesus. It seems obvious that infielder and team captain, Grace Lyons, has been a leader and mentor, not just in softball matters, but in issues of faith. In response to one of the questions, Grace said, “The only way that you can have a joy that doesn’t fade away is from the Lord. Any other type of joy is actually happiness that comes from circumstances and outcomes.”

Lyons also spoke of the faith mentorship of their coach, Patty Gasso. She said, “I think coach has said this before, but joy from the Lord is really the only thing that can keep you motivated, just in a good mindset no matter the outcomes.” The teammates who participated in the press conference all gave glory to God for their victory on the field, but also for their unshakable joy that’s not connected to softball. They see their success as providing a platform to point to Jesus and his sufficiency in all things. Alyssa Brito, a utility player for the Sooners, said “this game is giving us an opportunity to glorify God.” She went on to say that once she “turned to Jesus,” her outlook on life as well as on softball changed, and she understood ‘how much I have to live for, and that’s living to exemplify the kingdom.’”

Mentors in the faith always turn our eyes toward Jesus.

Melinda Wallace lives in Shreveport, Louisiana with her husband Stan. They have two grown children,. Her passion is leveraging her love of language to exalt Jesus and invite others to enjoy Him as He is revealed by the Holy Spirit through Scripture.

Additional Questions

Icebreaker

Who do you think of as a spiritual father?
When has someone commented that your mannerisms resemble those of someone influential in your life?
When have you felt like you were in over your head at a job or task?
What’s a skill you’ve learned that couldn’t be taught from a textbook?

Acts 16:1-5

How have others’ examples helped you grow as Christ’s disciple?
Who are some of the most positive spiritual examples from your past?
What aspects of the Christian walk are best learned through one-on-one mentoring?
How does mentoring happen in everyday moments?

2 Timothy 2:1-2

What are the advantages of a 2 Timothy 2:2 model of discipleship?
How can we mentor in such a way that a person is equipped to then mentor others?
What’s one thing someone intentionally taught you about following Jesus?
What are specific steps we can take to identify those we can disciple and mentor?
How can we identify those we should invest in?

2 Timothy 3:10-12

What role does persecution or the threat of it have in helping us grow in Christ?
When has a mentor helped you through a difficult season?
What stands out to you about Paul and Timothy’s relationship?
How can our response to persecution encourage others in their walk with Christ?

For Those in Your Group

Send the following link to your group members as either a teaser before the group meets or as a follow-up thought:

What Drivers Ed Taught Me About Growing In Christ

Article

This article complements the study. Share this link with your group members.

My Burden: 10 Reasons Why Churches Must Reach College Students

Podcast

Click here for a 20-minute podcast for both the group member and the leader.

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