In general, we associate heroes and sidekicks with comic books and superhero stories, but the roots of these character types run deep in human nature. Discipleship and mentorship are part of God’s plan for human relationships. Logically then, we find some of the best examples of heroes and sidekicks in His word, the Bible.
For the purpose of this list I disqualified the twelve disciples of Jesus, (because really, they would take up the whole list, and then some. And their mentor is kind of unbeatable).
So, all that said, here, in no particular order, is this week’s top 5 list:
5. Joshua (Exodus-Joshua)-
As the faithful young aide of the newborn nation of Israel’s leader, Moses, Joshua had a pure heart, a strategic mind, and a fierce devotion to his leader and his Lord. After serving under Moses for many years, he became the leader of Israel himself, during their period of conquest. God constantly exhorted him to be courageous, and encouraged him with the promise of His faithfulness. One of the most interesting aspects of his life was the way he dwelt in the presence of the Lord constantly while working with Moses:
“So the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. And he would return to the camp, but his servant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, did not depart from the tabernacle.” (Exodus 33:11 NKJV)
4. Elisha (1 Kings 19- 2 Kings 13)-
Elisha trained under similarly-named prophet,Elijah, before witnessing his mentor’s ascent to heaven in a flaming chariot. Then, he began his own prophetic ministry, which, in many ways paralleled that of Christ.
3. John Mark (Acts 12, 15; Colossians 4; 2 Timothy 4; Philemon; 1 Peter 5)-
In an amazing, (though subtle in the text), story of redemption, the young man who broke trust by abandoning Paul on a missionary journey became the apostle’s trusted confidant and loyal assistant. Many people believe that the gospel of Mark was written by John-Mark, under the tutelage of Paul.
2. Samuel (1 Samuel 1-25, 28)-
In contrast to the other stories mentioned here, this student ended up teaching his mentor a lesson or two in listening to the voice of God. Despite Eli the priest’s sometimes poor leadership, Samuel served the Lord, and the priest faithfully, and ended up hearing from God
when his teacher could not.
1. Timothy (Acts 16-20, Romans, 1&2 Corinthians, Philippians, Colossians, 1&2 Thessalonians, 1&2 Timothy, Philemon, Hebrews)-
The first Biblical figures we think of when we think of mentorship (other than the twelve disciples, of course), are Paul and Timothy. And rightfully so. Paul found Timothy as a young man, raised in the faith by his mother and grandmother, and took a vested interest in him. Paul served as the Christian father-figure that we generally assume was absent from Timothy’s life. The young disciple experienced amazing works of God during his time with Paul, and became a steadfast servant and leader. Despite his struggles with insecurity and sickness, God used him as a humble, passionate conveyer of the good news, and encourager of churches. The epistle that was most likely Paul’s last was a deeply personal letter to Timothy.
What do you think? Is there anyone I could add? What are your thoughts on Biblical mentorship and discipleship. I'd love to hear from you in the comments!
Keep on glowing in the dark,
Elora
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