Oftentimes coaching, counseling, mentoring and discipleship are terms that are misunderstood and believed to be interchangeable. The truth is they are different concepts that require distinctive approaches (Collins, 2009).  Counseling is helping an individual understand past issues that prevent a person from moving forward (Collins, 2009). Coaching deals with the present and helps by collaborating with a person to create a future that is desired (Collins, 2009). Christian coaching is unique, because it incorporates Christian principles to help individuals identify and live the values of their faith in order to establish better vision, opportunities and outcomes in their lives (Collins, 2009). A coach uses art and science to collaborate with another individual to help engage in self- discovery and self- guided change in the direction the individual wishes to pursue (Hicks, 2013). A Christian coach directs individuals using values given in the Bible (Collins, 2009). A mentor is an individual that is responsible for overseeing the progress and development of others (Bulstrode & Hunt, 2000). The mentor is available to give experienced advice and the power to exert influence over others within the mentee’s sphere (Bulstrode & Hunt, 2000). In contrast a coach does not have to be experienced or influential in a specific area to coach but rather leads the individuals to their own solutions through thought -provoking question that help the individual focus, problem solve, create goals and change (Collins, 2009). The coach does not offer advice but, rather helps the individuals through a process of self discovery find their own answers (Collins, 2009). Disciples are followers of Christ who adheres to his doctrine and assists in spreading the teachings in the Bible (Collins, 2009). One can be a mentor, coach or counselor without being a disciple of Christ. A Christian coach tries to model his/her own life and practice after Jesus (Collins, 2009).

 

References

 

Collins, G. (2009). Christian coaching (2nd ed.). United States of America:

     Colorado Springs, CO; NavPress

Bulstrode, C., & Hunt, V. (2000). What is mentoring? The Lancet, 356(9244), 1788.

     Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/199087772?accountid=12085

Hicks, R., & McCracken, J., (2013). Popcorn coaching. Physician Executive, 39(1),

     85-7. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1284082828?accountid=12085