Complete Dissertaton - Final for Print with new editing - Dallas ...

31
mean older in chronological years. It means “advanced in the process,” 73 and the term
younger women, means “early in the process.” 74 Sometimes younger women in terms of
chronological years show more spiritual maturity than some older women. The converse
can be true as well for sometimes there will be women who are older in chronological
years, yet less spiritually mature than someone younger. Even so, it stands true that the
longer people live, the more life experience they gain which they can pass along to
others. It remains important to make sure that women learn from other women who are
well experienced in life, mature, and trustworthy. These qualities represent the criteria for
a meaningful mentoring and shepherding relationship.
In addition, in the Book of Philippians, Paul writes to the community of faith
in Philippi. The Philippians were not to look to their own interests (as in oikeiosis) but
rather to the needs of others (Phil.2:4). James M. Houston adds that “…the whole
purpose of the epistle is an illustration of the social character of Christian mentoring as
beneficial socially…” 75
Conclusion
As women come to Dallas Seminary to study and train to become godly
servant leaders, their desire remains to glorify God and serve the body of Christ
worldwide. During their seminary career, mentoring relationships can enhance their
preparation and help integrate what they study into their personal lives. The instruction
Paul gives in Titus 2: 3-5 continues to be as valid for twenty-first century female
seminarians as was true in the first century.
NJ: Revell, 1966), I:43.
73 W. E. Vine, “aged,” in An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words (Old Tappan,
74 Ibid., “new,” 3:110.
NavPress, 2002), 51.
75
James M. Houston, The Mentored Life: From Individualism to Personhood (Colorado Springs, CO: