By Mutua Mahiaini and Alan Ch’ng
As International President and member of the Navigators International Executive Team, both Mutua Mahiaini and Alan Ch'ng (respectively) have experienced the profound impact of mentorship on their spiritual journeys and leader development. Here, they share their personal journeys with mentorship and how it has shaped their lives and ministry.
Alan's Journey with Mentorship
I've been privileged that God has brought numerous mentors into my life. These relationships have helped me grow as a person, deepen my walk with God, and expand my understanding of who God is. Mentorship has made me more competent in ministry and allowed me to explore areas of interest deeply.
Mentorship often begins with natural connections. My mentors have recognized opportunities for my growth, and through sharing their life journeys, they've opened doors for me to learn and develop.
Mentees often seek accountability, guidance, and someone to help them gain perspective and point them in the right direction. Ultimately, directing people to Jesus is the most important aspect, guiding them to find answers in Scripture. One essential lesson I’ve learned is that mentorship is a two-way street—both the mentor and mentee grow and learn throughout the journey.
Mutua's Journey with Mentorship
My journey with mentorship began when I was discipled by a Danish missionary. Our times together were incredibly meaningful to me. He was fun to be around and very open about his walk with God, including his struggles. At about 18 years old, I looked up to him as a senior figure in faith. His openness made me feel invited into the strength he drew from God—a strength he wanted me to experience too.
In 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul says, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." Viewed through this lens, mentoring means pointing people to Jesus and helping them become more like Him. It's a discipling process where we guide others through their life challenges, helping them to make their lives count in the kingdom. The principle remains the same from the earliest stages of discipleship to the end: we are helping people follow Christ's example. It's an extension of our discipleship.
The Navigator Approach to Mentorship
Our approach to mentorship in the Navigators isn't necessarily unique, but it is deeply rooted in two key values: life-on-life discipleship and relational depth. Mentorship for us is more than transmitting knowledge; it's about shaping convictions and values. One of my mentors once said, "More is caught than taught," which rings true in our ministry. We emphasize relationships and deeply investing in people's lives.
Paul Stanley defined mentoring as a relational experience in which one person empowers another by sharing God-given resources. This involves leading with a developmental bias—providing leadership while helping others become all that God wants them to be. We aim to help people surpass us and reach new heights in their spiritual journey. Leading with a developmental bias means being on the move ourselves, demonstrating God's work in our lives, and inspiring others to follow suit.
Biblical Examples of Mentorship
The Bible provides numerous examples of effective mentorship. Jesus' relationship with His disciples is a prime example. He called them to be with Him and sent them out to preach, emphasizing the importance of being together and learning from His life. Similarly, Paul and Barnabas' relationship showcases mentorship's power. Barnabas encouraged and supported Paul, helping him grow and mature in his faith and ministry.
Another example is the relationship between Paul and Timothy. Paul called Timothy his true son and shared his life, teaching, purpose, sufferings, and persecutions with him. This deep relational aspect and encouragement are crucial in mentorship. Paul also pointed Timothy to God, emphasizing the importance of being strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
Navigating Life's Challenges Through Scripture
Scripture plays a vital role in mentoring relationships. When people come to me with issues, I always ask, "What do the Scriptures have to say?" This approach cultivates a mindset of seeking God's guidance first. I enjoy bringing groups of mentees together to discuss their struggles and explore what the Bible says about these issues. This creates a hermeneutical community where we learn from each other and grow together.
A classic Scriptural example is from Jonathan and David. In 1 Samuel 23:15-16, David was badly in need of help: King Saul had come to take his life! Jonathan went to David and helped him find strength in God. Later when David faced another life-threatening situation (1 Samuel 30:6) and Jonathan was not there, “David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.”
In difficult times, our role is to help people find strength in the Lord, teaching them to seek God's guidance. We aim to raise individuals who, when uncertain or lacking, know where to turn and how to draw on God’s strength and rely on His Word.
Addressing Misconceptions About Mentorship
Mentorship can sometimes be misunderstood. It's not a program to graduate from or a status symbol. Mentorship is a relational experience where both parties grow. One myth is that mentors must have it all together, but no mentor is perfect. Another misconception is the over-definition of mentoring—splitting hairs about whether something is coaching, mentoring, or discipling isn't helpful. Mentorship is also not just for the young; we all need mentors throughout our lives.
Encouragement to Others Seeking Mentorship
For those seeking mentorship, I encourage you to look for people whose lives reflect Christ's character and impact. Trust and vulnerability are crucial in a mentoring relationship. It's about finding someone you respect and feel safe with, someone who points you to God.
Mentorship has profoundly impacted our lives and ministry. It's about walking alongside others, helping them find strength in the Lord, and guiding them to become all that God wants them to be. Whether you're a mentor or a mentee, the journey of discipleship and mentorship is a continuous, transformative process that shapes us into the likeness of Christ.
