The New Testament Witness to Christ and His Kingdom, Mentor's Guide, MG13

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T H E N E W T E S T A M E N T W I T N E S S T O C H R I S T A N D H I S K I N G D O M

confirmed through his resurrection, was exalted to a position of authority, power, and glory in the ascension.

What is emphasized in these case studies is the importance of understanding that the testimony of the resurrection and ascension are anchored on the experience and testimony of the Apostles, not the shrewdness and cogency of our logical arguments. In an age of missions science and church growth principles, it pays to remind your students of the helpful place these things have, but they can never be decisive. Only the truth of the Apostles’ testimony, mixed with the illumination and conviction provided by the Holy Spirit, will suffice in helping individuals come to a full and compelling understanding of Jesus as the Messiah. Without the Spirit, the natural man cannot by any means understand the things of God (1 Cor. 2.9-16). Does this mean that we ought not present these truths with a clear, logical, and appropriate presentation geared to the culture of those who receive it? Absolutely not! Paul is unequivocal in suggesting that he strove to become all things to all people in order that he might win some (1 Cor. 9.23ff.). He was equally aware, however, that he was merely a planter, or one who watered. Only God himself could provide the actual growth of the seed and plant (1 Cor. 3.6-7). Make sure that you pay the price at this time to cover all of your bases as a mentor or professor. You must be as organized as your students, paying careful attention to every dimension of the course, and ensuring your own well-organized and disciplined approach to your student’s assignments and grades. At this point in the module, attention must be given to tracking the various assignments of your students, and recording their grades carefully and accurately. Your work as an instructor and grader begins in earnest now. Make sure that you have commitments for the ministry projects, exegetical projects, and other data together as this will be important for you to determine the student’s overall grade. Again, your discretion regarding late work can easily determine whether you dock students of points, resulting in letter grade changes, or give students an

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10 Page 147 Assignments