Practicing Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG11

2 7 6 /

P R A C T I C I N G C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

This deep rootedness in the Hebrew thought makes the choice of this image as a dominant image of Christian leadership all the more important and instructive. Not only is Yahweh a shepherd, and his righteous agents called shepherd, but Messiah himself would also be a shepherd of God’s flock. Now, we who represent the interests of Christ, attain the same high rank and privilege to care for and guard God’s people, through the Holy Spirit (Acts 20.28). Congratulations! You have facilitated the entire module of learning, discussion, and prayer. However, don’t be too anxious to move on! Your work as an instructor and grader begins in earnest now. By now, all students should have given you their commitments and possibilities regarding their ministry projects, exegetical projects, and any other assignment data you need to determine the student’s overall grade. Again, your discretion regarding late work can easily determine whether you dock students some of the possible points, which may result in letter grade changes. You may elect as instructor to give students an “Incomplete” on their transcript until their assignments are completed, graded, and recorded. Whichever option you adopt, you must ensure that your standards are fair and equally applied across the board with all your students. Remember, of course, that our courses are not primarily about giving the students a great grade or score, but rather ensuring that they learn the principles and truths that will enrich their lives and ministries. The spiritual nourishment and training these courses provide are the true payoff. Nevertheless, we honor those students who have worked hard and sacrificed their time and effort to do well by acknowledging their good effort in their grade reports. We want in every way to encourage students to strive for excellence, and grading can be an integral part of that encouragement. Make certain that the students know how the course will “close;” inform them about when the papers, reports, and exams will be graded and returned, and when you hope to have their grades tallied and communicated. Thank the students for their good effort, and encourage them to continue in their learning in Christ’s school of discipleship.

5 Page 159 Assignments