The Odyssey, attributed to Homer, is an ancient Greek epic poem that tells the story of Odysseus, king of Ithaca, and his ten-year journey home after the Trojan War. The poem explores Odysseus's encounters with various mythical creatures, divine interventions, and natural challenges. Upon his return to Ithaca, he must confront the suitors who have been vying for his wife Penelope's hand in marriage. With the help of his son Telemachus and the goddess Athena, Odysseus devises a plan to defeat the suitors and reclaim his throne. The poem is a reflection on human nature, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions, and it remains a crucial component of ancient Greek literature and Western cultural heritage.
Written in Latin between AD 397 and 400, 'Confessions' is a blend of autobiography, philosophy, theology, and critical exegesis of the Christian Bible. The first nine books are autobiographical, tracing Augustine's life from his birth to his conversion to Catholicism. He recounts his sinful youth, his involvement with Manicheism and Neoplatonism, and his eventual conversion in a Milanese garden. The last four books focus on philosophical and theological issues, including memory, time, eternity, and the interpretation of the Book of Genesis. The work is structured as a series of prayers to God, reflecting Augustine's journey of redemption and his understanding of God's grace and providence[2][4][5].
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Expositors Collective Podcast, we feature a compelling message from Bryan Stupar on the vital role of mentorship in ministry and life. Drawing from his deep well of pastoral experience and biblical understanding, Bryan illustrates the importance of older generations investing in the younger. He weaves together biblical examples—including the ultimate model of Jesus—and classical wisdom from Homer’s Odyssey to provide a rich, multidimensional perspective on mentorship. Whether you're seeking to grow as a mentor or looking to be mentored, this episode will inspire and challenge you to cultivate meaningful, transformative relationships.
Bryan opens by defining mentorship as a relational investment designed to foster intentional growth, aligning closely with the principles of biblical discipleship. He delves into Homer’s Odyssey, highlighting the character Mentor as a timeless example of guidance and wisdom that parallels biblical models. Addressing modern challenges, Bryan underscores how the cultural zeitgeist subtly influences individuals, often mentoring them in ways they might not even realise. He contrasts this with the concept of expressive individualism, which Carl Trueman defines as a cultural emphasis on self-expression and authenticity as the ultimate goals, often at the expense of communal responsibility and growth. Bryan uses Alicia Keyes as a case study to illustrate the pervasive impact of this mindset. Turning to Scripture, Bryan unpacks Jesus’ intentional and humble approach to mentorship, showcasing His unwavering commitment to the growth and development of His disciples. He concludes with a call for listeners to follow Jesus’ example by embracing the dual roles of being mentored and mentoring others, thereby fostering spiritual and personal growth within the Church.
About Bryan Stupar:
Bryan Stupar, born in 1970 and raised in the surf culture of Huntington Beach, California, became a Christian at the age of 15. In 1993, he and his wife, Sherry, moved to San Luis Obispo to plant Calvary SLO Church, now a vibrant and influential ministry on California’s Central Coast. Bryan is a devoted husband, father to two daughters (Brianna and Brooke), and lover of photography, coffee culture, and surfing. His life’s passion is investing in others for the glory of God and the good of the world.
Recommended Episodes:
John Hwang on Preaching Mentorships: https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/preaching-mentorships-with-john-hwang-panel-discussion
Clay Worrell on Preaching Mentorships: https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/preaching-mentorship-panel-discussion-clay-worrell
How do I find Someone To Mentor Me? https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/how-do-i-find-someone-to-mentor-me-panel-discussion-qa
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