RMMN Called Initiative

Scientists and astronomers tell us that space travel is limited. There are places in our universe we cannot and may never be able to go for no other reason than we are unable to predict their position and velocity with enough accuracy to be successful. The farther away a moving object is, the harder it is to predict its speed and location at the same time. This reality is often referred to as Heisenberg’s “uncertainty principle.”

We believe the same relationship exists between culture and time. As much as we would like to think we can predict what kind of ministries Colorado and Utah may need in the future, we cannot. We also face an “uncertainty principle” in ministry because the speed of change and the size of our obstacles are moving targets. That is why helping future generations identify and navigate the call of God is so important. Our culture seems to be becoming more godless at the speed of light, and we cannot travel into the future. However, every new generation is God’s prophetic prescription for what the future will need. That is why the most effective way to reach a changing culture is to invest in those who will live, minister, and speak truth to their own generation. That is why call mentoring must be a priority of every person serving in ministry. That is why we are asking all our nearly 600 ministers to join us in this effort.

Biblical Stories of Call Mentoring, by Dr. Charlie Self

The Bible is clear that ALL of God’s people have divine placement and purpose (Exodus 19:6; 2 Peter 2:4-10). In God’s wisdom, he has chosen some to lead as equippers of the saints (Ephesians 4:8-11). Credentialed ministry is a vital assignment and must be received with awe and humility, dependence on the Lord and as part of a community. It is biblical to honor those that the Lord has called and respect both the office and the persons (Hebrews 13:7, 17). If you have congregants sensing the Lord’s leading toward ministry leadership, please acquire the book, Explore the Call by Gene Roncone. As we enjoy five examples of good mentoring from Scripture, may the Holy Spirit open our eyes to the women and men in our midst in whom we can cultivate the call.

1. Moses and Joshua: Apprenticeship and a new generation of leadership

In Joshua 1:1-9, the Lord encourages the new leader of Israel four times to, “Be strong and courageous…” How does one continue the ministry after a man Numbers 12:3 describes as, “The humblest man on earth”? After a generation as Moses’ apprentice, army commander, scout, and designated successor (Exodus 17:8-13; Numbers 13:30-14:38; 27:15-23; Deuteronomy 31:14-15) Joshua is now in charge of leading a new generation into the Promised Land. What can we learn about the Moses-Joshua relationship that will help with our mentoring?

The first thing we observe is God’s revelation to Moses, calling him to appoint Joshua. All ministry begins with the Lord supernaturally calling someone and confirming that calling through other leaders. A healthy relationship of respectful submission and mutual respect characterized the generation of preparation. No one will lead effectively without being able to follow both God and God’s designated authority. This is NOT an invitation to unthinking submission or leaders taking advantage of younger leaders and expecting lock-step obedience. What we see here is a holy and loving leader inviting a developing leader to share life and leadership.

The second principle is Joshua’s faithfulness through many challenges, from the first generation of Israelites worshiping a golden calf and refusing to trust God in their conquest of the Promised Land, all the way to being present for Moses in every step of the journey. Part of mentoring is helping the person being mentored develop inner strength as challenges arise (and they will come!).

A third principle is that the Lord and Moses saw the commitment of Joshua after he was part of the 12 spies that scouted out the land. Only Joshua and Caleb would not give in to the fear that paralyzed the other spies and brought despair to the community. A good mentor will see the potential and invest wholeheartedly in seeing God’s calling develop.

Fellow-servants, are you willing to invite aspiring leaders into your life and ministry? This is more than appointments and classes, disciplines and duties. This is welcoming them as brothers and sisters and fellow-servants.

2. Samuel and the schools of the prophets: multiplying in community

Samuel is a pivotal figure in Israelite history. Under his leadership, God’s people move from a loose confederation of tribes led by judges to a united kingdom under Saul and David. Prophet Samuel inaugurates a new era in leadership as he brings forth insights from the Lord and lays foundations for future prophets, priests, and kings. Samuel himself had devout parents who consecrated him to the Lord. He was also subject to very imperfect mentoring under the priest Eli, a leader who failed to keep his own sons from abusing their positions for personal gain. These sons also profaned the Holy Ark, thinking it was a good luck charm for battle. (1 Samuel 1-5).

Mentoring and multiplying of ministry are implied in I Samuel 7:15-17, as Samuel went on a circuit, acting as a judge for disputes, a teacher of the law, and a prophet raising up other who would prophesy. There has been much writing on Samuel’s “schools of the prophets” as we see communities of especially young adults meeting and experiencing God’s power. We see King Saul coming to Gibeah and meeting a group of prophets, joining them in their declarations (I Kings 10:9-11). We must not say more than scripture here; however, we do have a basis for systematic instruction in community.

Samuel also instructed both the general populace and the kings in the ways of the Lord (I Samuel 7-15). He anointed Saul and worked to mentor him in obedience. But Samuel’s character and anointing, though influential, did not keep King Saul from allowing his haste and superstition to triumph over obedience (I Kings 15). Samuel would soon anoint King David, relying on the Lord to reveal the divinely-appointed ruler he intended all along (I Samuel 16).

Friends, we will have disappointments. Some people we invest in will choose other paths. We are not responsible for the choices our mentees make, provided we have declared and demonstrated the truth with love. Samuel is an amazing leader and cautionary tale. He was used by God for the transformation of a nation, and proof that God has no grandchildren. Each person and generation must renew the covenant.

I remember one night when Kathy and I were pastoring in the Northwest. We had invested much time and many tears in a family and seen miraculous progress. We saw then get plugged in to the church. Then they came to us and said they were moving to another church with better programs. We were happy they were still following the Lord (and they wanted to be in ministry), but devastated at their casual departure. Take heart, leaders. There will be lots of ups and downs, but it is worth it for Jesus to say well done as his investment in us is multiplied in the lives of others.

3. Elijah and Elisha: servanthood and anointing

The Story of Elijah and Elisha is the most direct example of mentoring a fellow-minister and successor (I Kings 19:19-21; 2 Kings 2). Both Elijah and Elisha had notable ministries, confronting kings and false prophets, calling God’s people and their leaders to faithfulness, facing rejection and uncertainly, and being used by God in miraculous ways (I Kings 17-2 Kings 8). There are three points of wisdom we discover from this relationship.

First, like Moses and Joshua, callings begin with the Lord placing his hand on a sister or bother and the mature leader recognizing such a calling. This is what led Elijah to throw his cloak over Elisha and invite him to be hid disciple. Once again, this is revelation from the Holy Spirit. Personal experiences will vary. Sometimes a calling is a dramatic event, in a moment of prayer at an altar, a vision, etc. Sometimes it is a gradual awakening. As my friend Lyn Johnson says, “God speaks to us in our accents.” The key is an inner conviction that is confirmed by others.

Second, the one being mentored must make a full commitment to the calling. It took a moment, but Elisha left all and followed Elijah, after just a bit of hesitation (See Luke 9:57-62 for three such stories). As we consider mentoring others for credentialed ministry, we are looking for men and women that are “all in” and ready to develop their character and charisms. Casual is not the order of the day. If someone is not ready, we can give them time and welcome them later.

A third insight will help us help others. God desires that the best aspects of our ministry continue in the next generation. This is not cultural replication, but spiritual reproduction that will be uniquely expressed through those we mentor. This principle is implied by Elisha’s request for a double portion of the Spirit. Please note: Elisha is NOT asking for twice the anointing! He is using a Hebrew term for inheritance…he is asking for God’s favor and the continuation of the mission with the blessing of his mentor.

4. Jesus and his followers

There are so many insights about multiplying ministry from our Lord! Let’s look at four facets of Jesus’ mentoring that can help us follow in his steps and see fruitfulness in those we serve.

First, we see that Jesus is both inclusive of all people and selective in who is designated a leader. We must value every person we welcome and do all we can so they feel loved and accepted and able to fulfill their calling in and through our community. Jesus looked at the crowds and prayerfully called on his inner circle to pray for more workers. At the same time, after a night in prayer, he appointed the Twelve and welcomed select women to help lay the foundation of an expanded Israel that will include believing Jews and Gentiles (Luke 8). Sometimes Jesus met with a smaller circle of three (Peter, James, and John). Other times, a larger body of seventy was commissioned for ministry (Luke 10). We must be prayerful about who serves with us and who we invest time in…without being exclusive or inconsiderate of all the congregation and community.

Among his immediate followers we see a second facet of his mentoring: Jesus integrated prayer and teaching, encouraging and rebuking in his discipling. He taught and participated in prayer with his friends (Matthew 6; Luke 10-11). Of course, the Gospels are filled with his teachings. Sometimes he is with his immediate group (John 13:1-6); other times he is among the multitudes (Luke 6). Jesus offered encouragement and rebuke as he helped shape these future leaders. Think of Peter’s experience in Matthew 16. Peter confesses that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God. Jesus praises Peter for receiving divine revelation. Right after this, Peter objects to Jesus’ declaration that his future includes a cross. Suddenly, Jesus is rebuking Peter for capitulating to Satan’s deception. Later, Jesus will predict Peter’s betrayal (rebuke) and eventual restoration (encouragement – see Luke 22:31-32).

Third, Jesus’ modeled servant leadership in contrast to ungodly authoritarian models. Three times in Mark 8-10 the disciples are disputing who is greater and competing for positions. Three times Jesus reminds them that following him includes a cross. Mark 10:45 is the climax of these chapters with Jesus declaring that the Son of Man (see Daniel 7:9-14 for this glorious picture of the Lord) came to serve and give his life as a ransom for many. When Jesus met with his immediate followers for the Last Supper, he started his Passion with a basin and a towel, washing the feet of his friends (and betrayer). May we help those we mentor see that all we do is service, including necessary decisions of our office and sometime difficult conversations.

The fourth facet is the context for all the others, and the numerous other points of wisdom: Jesus is Immanuel, the With-Us-God (Matthew 1:22-23; 28:18-20; John 1:1-18). He is forever one of us! He lived among us, sharing in all the joys and trials, sufferings and temptation of life…yet without sin (Hebrews 2-4). There is no substitute for life together, and being fully present. This does not mean a commune or cult-like control. Jesus took time to eat with his friends…and pray alone. Jesus taught well – and demonstrated kingdom power with healing and deliverance. Being and doing together is essential and the Holy Spirit will help us find the best patterns for this as we prepare women and men for ministry.

One of my mentors was a very well-known leader in our movement. I met him when he was 70 and still full of hope and joy. I was 20. In addition to sharing his wisdom, helping me get credentials, and opening doors of opportunity, he invited me to play tennis often and come into his office and offer my advice (He was practicing “reverse mentoring” before Dr. Earl Creps great book!). I was profoundly affected by his care and concern, his dynamic prayer life, and the contagious joy. And he made me do most of the running in our doubles’ tennis!

5. The Apostle Paul: paradoxical power and personal care

Paul was amazing person and leader. His entire life was a thank you to Jesus (Romans 12:1-2: Philippians 3:7-14). He was converted and called at the same moment (Acts 9) and devoted his life to spreading the gospel into new territories as well as strengthening the churches he founded (Romans 15:7-33). Paul had to defend his apostolic calling against many detractors, affirming that he had a revelation of the Risen Lord and worked hard to fulfill his calling (1 Corinthians 15:1-11; 2 Corinthians 10-13; Galatians 1:11-16). At the same time, Paul was humble enough to learn from the Jerusalem apostles and receive their affirmation and insights (Galatians 1:17-24; Acts 15; I Corinthians 11:23-33).

As Paul carried out his ministry, he was accountable and in partnership with Barnabas (Acts 11-15) and later Silas (Acts 16), as well as the apostles mentioned above. He enjoyed deep, rich friendships with women and men as fellow ministers (Romans 16 and Colossians 4 – two great chapters full of his friends). Here is an important principle: we must model friendship and accountability to fellow leaders in our church and in kingdom if we are going to reproduce other leaders with accountability and humility.

A second aspect of Paul’s ministry that has a huge impact on others was his integrity. This included keeping a clear conscience, never using ministry for monetary gain (though he gratefully received support when needed), and working hard to be a blessing and not a burden to others (2 Corinthians 2:17; I Thessalonians 2:1-12). The women and men we mentor will see through facades and image-making. We are the message before we preach the message.

Paul mentored Timothy, Titus, Epaphroditus (Colossians 4), and others by doing the work together and then commissioning them to their new assignments (I, 2 Timothy, and Titus are full of such practical instruction and Paul’s confidence that they are ready). Please involve your mentees in the actual work of ministry. Include them, when possible, in Board Meetings, and ask for their thoughts on new ministry initiatives. Remember, these men and women are not the future church – they are the church right now.

When I was 16 and senior in high school, I was discipled by several young leaders and then released to lead a small group of fellow-students. In fact, some of those in the group had led me to the Lord! They welcomed my service, and included lots of humor when I preached too long! When I was 18, I was asked to lead a film series for the whole church and offer my insights. Remember, just three years earlier I was far away from Christ. Because of caring people and intentional mentoring, I was fulfilling my calling in my home church. By 20 I was on the staff. At age 22, Kathy and I were sent out as missionaries to Belgium. This is not because I/we was/are superior to anyone. Here is the equation: God’s calling + loving community + caring leaders = prepared to serve. Please give young people opportunities for real ministry – they will surprise you.

One more thing Paul insisted on as he multiplied his ministry: absolute faithfulness to the authority of the Bible and sound theology (Galatians 1:1-10; I Corinthians 15; 1 Timothy 3:16). Sound doctrine is foundational and being able to handle God’s Word well is essential (2 Timothy 3:15-17). Please do not treat biblical studies and theology as, “classes to get through.” They are the bedrock of sustainable ministry. Please strive to help your mentees get the highest level of education possible. Internet sermons are not substitutes for serious exegesis, historical, and theological study. The great English preacher C.H. Spurgeon (who filled 10,000 seats a week and had his sermons published in the London Times), was called to peach at 16 and never looked back…AND he learned Hebrew and Greek and insisted his assistants find every major commentary on the passage so he could learn from others while he shaped a unique message. Please demonstrate how the highest theological ideas are connected with being strong disciples.

Concluding Insights

There are four principles that help bring together the different stories and insights and help us structure how we obey the Lord’s leading in mentoring others.

We need revelation from the Lord (Ephesians 1:15-21; 3:14-21; Philippians 1:9-11) concerning who we invest in and how we structure the process. This is unique to our context and the Holy
Spirit will help us see how to frame the pathways and form the people. By the way, I am using revelation in the way the apostle prayed, not as some “super-spiritual” idea. God is ready to share with us what we need for fruitful multiplying of disciples and leaders. Most of what we need is in the Bible. But the Spirit is needed for the specifics. Here are three markers than can help us – and our prospective mentees – discern readiness:

• Character in king. Before one can lead, one must be a fully-devoted disciples of Jesus, enjoying God’s presence and fulfilling his purpose in everyday life. The foundations of Matthew 5:3-12, The fruit of Galatians 5:22-23, and faithfulness of 2 Peter 1:1-10 are all essential. Is there progress (not perfection) in these areas?
• Charisms matter. Are the natural and spiritual gifts at least in development? God can transform a personality and surprise us with the people he chooses, but we must also make sure we are not preparing people for disappointment.
• Competencies can be learned, but there must be both ability and humility if one is going to lead well. Passion is not enough. Emotional and professional skills are vital.

We must see mentoring as a relationship more than a program. Life with life, time and transparency, tears and triumphs will all be part of the process. Your mentees will be serving, but they are not just cheap labor! Submission is important, but our service to these tender leaders-in-training is even more important.

There will be refinement of both the mentor and mentee in this process. The key here is that we and those we serve are all aiming for the same godly outcomes that flow from the Word and our mission (Hebrews 13:7-8). Yes, you will assign reading and responsibilities, prayers and practices. But all these are the means to the end, not ends in themselves. God will reach deep and bring healing and hope, repentance and righteousness to all involved.

We must gradually release both responsibility and authority as we mentor. They will make mistakes, and we are there to correct and encourage and help this learn. They will surprise us, and we will burst with joy when we see the Lord using them. Sometimes, they will join our team long-term. Often, we will commission them for new fields of service. Either way, we are honoring our Lord as we mentor.

Friends, will you please embrace this holy obligation to be kingdom catalysts as see new ministers succeed? There are few things more fulfilling than seeing people we have influenced thrive in ministry. After forty years as a pastor and professor I can declare with confidence that hundreds of my students and congregants have impact far beyond what I could ever do. I am honored that the Lord would include me in the process. Will you join me?

The Lord keeps reminding us that he asked us to prioritize prayer for more laborers, not resources, strategy, or promotion.

Matthew 9:37-38 gives us an example of how Jesus resolved the tension between profound need and limited resources. 

“Jesus understood what an awesome task was before Him, so He said to His disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest to send more workers into His harvest field.” Matthew 9:37-38

 Superintendent Roncone reached out to each one of our RMMN ministers and asked them to help him provide a focus prayer covering for those in their church who are exploring the call of God to ministry.  

Because we are asking each of our ministers to preach, teach or testify on the call of God annually, we wanted to provide sample sermons as a resource.  

We asked a few ministers representing diverse styles of communication to submit sermon manuscripts about God’s call to ministry. The manuscripts are in electronic format and available in a shared internet folder that can be accessed by clicking here.

Explore the Call is a book specifically designed for those who are wondering if ministry is God’s will for their life. Superintendent Gene Roncone wrote the book to answer the most common questions those considering the ministry have and coach them along the way. Each chapter also has a list of discussion questions that can be used with a person’s local pastor, for individual reflection, one-on-one mentoring, or small group meetings.  Using this book is easy. It really is! 

Following are suggestions: 

Independent reading. The book was written with short but informative chapters for busy people. It can be read alone, but the best way is to work through it with a mentor. 

Find a minister mentor. Readers can connect with a minister who is willing to meet with them weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Readers can ask their pastors to consider making themselves available to discuss the questions at the end of each chapter. If a pastor is not available, a member of the RMMN team in that local area may be able to help. 

Use the discussion questions. Each of the 34 chapters takes about 10-15 minutes to read. Participants can read the determined chapters and then use the discussion questions at the end of each chapter as a springboard for discussion. The questions provided are just recommendations to get things rolling. Feel free to add additional questions you may have as well. 

If you need copies of the Explore the Call book, please email Amanda Rosinski with how many copies you would like and what address to mail them to you. Books take two weeks to arrive. Amanda can be reached at amanda@rmdc.org

There are three mentoring options depending on your desired involvement. 

# 1. Network-wide Called Cohort. Encourage those who respond and are given a book to sign for the Network’s Explore the Call online class. The class is free, self-paced, and in a talk show format. It can be accessed on our online learning platform at this link. 

# 2. One-on-one Format. Each of the short chapters in Explore the Call concludes with two lists of questions. The first is a list of questions mentors should be prepared to answer, and the second is a list that mentors may ask participants during their mentoring meeting.

#3. Small Group Format. If you have three or more individuals in your church who are exploring a call to ministry, you may want to consider leading an Explore the Call small group. The group uses the Explore the Call book and comes together for four to six weeks to discuss relevant topics. 

A graphics package with art and slide options in a shared internet folder can be accessed by clicking here.

VIDEO: To download the short called testimony video click here.  

TESTIMONIES: To read testimonies from participating churches click here. 

ARTICLE: To read the July 8, 2022 article from AG news service click here. 

If you still have questions or want additional information or need copies of the Explore the Call book, please email Amanda Rosinski with how many copies you would like and what address to mail them to you. Books take two weeks to arrive.  Amanda can be reached at amanda@rmdc.org