Mentor's Manual

50 For the Nex t Generat i on: The Urban Mi n i s t r y I ns t i tute ’ s Mentor Manua l

In addition to the focus on essentials, three principles should guide our classroom discussions when there is legitimate difference of opinion about theological truth. • First, we respect the congregational traditions of our students and we are attempting to help them minister effectively within them. We want to encourage students to be loyal to their church or denomination and its vision, doctrines, leadership, and traditions. • Second, we believe that theological discussion can highlight differences in a way that is irenic, that is, “leading toward peace.” We are more interested in what we hold in common and in how differences in perspective can inform and sharpen each person’s understanding of truth than we are in having one view “win out.” During discussions that raise disagree- ments, Mentors and students should heed the words of James to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” Our experience is that classes which contain a diversity of views (within an evangelical and historic frame- work of orthodoxy) help students to become better thinkers and ministers. • Third, this is leadership education. Students do not need to be protected from differing viewpoints but exposed to them. Critical thinking about issues, biblical defenses of positions, and understanding of the history of doctrinal development are a necessary part of all Christian leadership education. As a Mentor, you will play a key role in creating a classroom atmosphere that is respectful and open toward the theological and ministry tradition of each Christian leader. Your job is not to undermine these but to help people sharpen their convictions, ground them in a firm biblical base, and integrate them within the context in which they are called to minister. We believe that the curriculums we provide will both model and build a framework in which you can accomplish this. Holding Fast the Good: Developing Critical Thinking Skills in Leadership Development In order to be a responsible leader in the Church, a man or woman must have developed the ability to think critically, to weigh opinion without prejudice or bias, and possess a fairness in listening to

Dealing with

Theological Diversity