In the 21st Century, people are interested in self-help and self-development. With more than seven billion people occupying space in the world, it is safe to say everyone is in need of guidance. It is not a far reach to assert that many people already know what a mentoring relationship is. They have a good idea of what it entails and why it is important. The mentoring relationship is a dynamic one that involves a delicate balance of nurturing and support on the one hand with stretch and challenge on the other. Christians, who engage in mentoring relationships, whether formal or informal, must approach those relationships from a Biblical perspective.

Scripture provides clear instructions regarding mentoring. The recording of certain Scriptures and notable mentoring relationships in the Bible reveals the importance of relationship and instruction. PILLARS for Christian Mentoring provides practical application of Biblical principles governing mentoring relationships; clarity about the tenure of the mentoring relationship; and identifies the stages of the mentoring relationship.