A Biblical Model of Mentoring with a Knowledge Management Perspective Conspectus : The Journal of the South African Theological Seminary, Volume 15, Issue 03, Mar 2013, p. 85 - 106

Abstract

The primary purpose of this paper is to develop a biblical model of mentoring with a knowledge management perspective. To this end, four research questions are submitted: (a) what are the components of a biblical model of mentoring with a knowledge management perspective? (b) What are the nature and types of knowledge imparted in a mentoring relationship? (c) What are the impediments to knowledge impartation in a mentoring relationship? (d) What knowledge management strategies can be used to overcome the impediments to knowledge impartation in a mentoring relationship? To address these problems, the Wesleyan quadrilateral approach of doing theology was used.

First, five major components of a biblical model of mentoring with a knowledge perspective can be identified. They are the mentor, the protégé, , the knowledge to be imparted, the mentor-protégé, relationship, and the Holy Spirit. Next, the nature of knowledge imparted can be conceptualised as explicit-tacit-implicit, declarative-procedural-causal, as well as human-social-structured. The types of knowledge imparted cover instruction, encouragement, and inspiration. Third, four main impediments to knowledge impartation are the negative attributes of the mentor, the negative attributes of the protégé, , the characteristics of the knowledge, and the arduous mentor-protégé, relationship. Finally, knowledge management strategies to overcome the impediments to knowledge impartation in a mentoring relationship include mentor motivation, selection and training, a clear developmental path, and constant prayer for the protégé, and an organically-nurtured mentor-protégé relationship to promote trust between them.