Barnabas-Style coaching is wrapped up in a simple, two-sentence Bible story about Barnabas.
“When he arrived and saw the evidence of the grace of God, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.”
Acts 11:23-24 NIV
In a previous blog, Kevin (guest contributor), introduced Barnabas and his coaching style. This week we continue to learn about the important role of coaching in Disciple Making Movements and some simple, reproducible tips on how to get coaching started in your own network.
There are 3 simple tips to Barnabas-Style Coaching. Last time we looked at Tip #1: Ask Questions.
Barnabas-Style Coaching Tip #2: Listen Carefully
“He…saw the evidence of the grace of God, he was glad…”
Barnabas focused attention upon the people he was sent to help. He asked good questions. Next came listening. I can imagine each question he asked opening a floodgate of stories. Faces lit up as they talked about Jesus and what He did in their lives, families, and neighborhoods. Hearing how they actively made new disciples, Barnabas saw them through God’s eyes more and more. “Evidence of the grace of God” mounted as he listened.