Below are a couple of good articles that provide a solid biblical foundation to the idea of “coaching” as a ministry. On the same subject, two good books that have been recommended on the subject of coaching as it relates to Christian ministry are:
- Coaching for Christian Leaders: A Practical Guide by Linda Miller and Chad Hall (I’ve read this one and really got a great deal from it. I recommend it.)
- Faith Coaching: A Conversational Approach to Helping Others Move Forward in Faith (I have purchased this one, but have not yet read it.)
by Phil Newell at ChurchCentral.com
Here’s an excerpt from Part One:
The development of a sound biblical basis for coaching will be critical if it is to be given a place of broad acceptance and usefulness in the Christian community in the days to come. This is an area that has only recently received serious consideration or study. The primary reason for coaching’s expanded application in Christian ministries has been based much more on its pragmatic value than a thorough biblical review.
As authors Linda Miller and Chad Hall acknowledge, “Coaching is growing because it works.” And it does work – but that is not enough. It is vital that we take the time to determine whether there is a biblical framework for coaching and not assume that just because it sells it must be good. Pragmatics alone cannot validate Christian ministry.
Bible coaches?
We can safely acknowledge that none of the biblical leaders ever envisioned themselves filling the role of a coach per se. Not only is the title “coach” never used in the Bible, there isn’t another title, role, or ministry gift that exactly parallels the task of a coach. That being said, I do believe it is reasonable to state that much of coaching can be found in the context of biblical principles and practices.
Click here to read the rest of the article.
Click here to read “What is the Biblical Basis of Coaching? Part 2″
Blessings,
Dale
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