Motherhood and Mentoring

"But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things-- that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed. Likewise exhort the young men to be sober-minded, in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you." Titus 2:1-8, NKJV.

Introduction:

Mothering is both physical and spiritual

-a bearer of life ; a nurturer of life

Not all are to be physical mothers, but

every believing women can and should be a spiritual mother!

-as a witness for Christ; as a disciple-maker with Christ

*What is a mentor?

Definition of mentor - "a wise and trusted advisor"
Deuteronomy 6:5-7

*What is God's will for older women?

Their manner of life

Character: Reverent

Behavior

No Slander

No alcohol abuse (drugs, excessive entertainment, etc.)

Example of Dorcas Acts 9:35

Their ministry: "teach good things"

Example: Priscilla Acts 18:26

*Whom should they mentor? - younger women!

-as an "older sister" or "aunt" or "grandmother" or "great-grandmother"

*What does God want them to teach? - Godly, Spirit-filled Christian living!

Christian mothers' and fathers' responsibilities include more than physical care, material provision, or academic advancement.

A. Family life

1. Marriage: Love her husband; Submit to her husband in the Lord

2. Parenting: Love her children; Be a good example

3. Role: A resourceful homemaker

B. Personal life: Discretion, Purity, and Goodness

*What benefits come from faithful Christian mentoring?

Lasting marriages, successful youth, and a positive testimony for God

Examples: Timothy's mother and grandmother 2 Tim. 1:5

*Our source of sufficiency is Christ, who indwells His people. 2 Cor. 3:5

Winona Gospel Church May 13, 2001 AM John B. Woodward.