Gospel-Centered Mentoring

Exploring the values and methods of Christian mentoring that is built around our identity in Christ.
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Equipping mentors to help mentees develop into wholehearted Children of God who rest in Christ fully and reflect him faithfully in every realm of their lives www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site

  1. 10/18/2025

    Updated!!! Listen to the Intro of my book "More than Meh"

    Hey everyone, the audio version of my introduction for More than Meh cut off early. I have re-uploaded the full intro here. As I record and edit the audio for my upcoming release of More than Meh on Audible, I thought I would share the introduction. Purchase More than Meh here on Amazon. Find out more about my books on matthewdoebler.us. Get full access to Gospel-Centered at www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/subscribe

    13 min
  2. Corrected - The Power of Groups

    05/26/2025

    Corrected - The Power of Groups

    I apologize to our listeners: the previous podcast episode was labeled “the Power of Groups” but the actual topic was “How to Have Healthy Conflict.” That episode has been corrected. This is the actual message entitled “the Power of Groups.” Thanks for your understanding! In gospel-centered mentoring, we aim to help mentees become wholehearted followers of Jesus in four different realms: the spiritual, physical, emotional, and social/vocational. Generally, it seems the most difficult realm to address is the emotional. One reason for this may be that many modern Christians don’t have a clear and accurate picture how the Bible addresses issues of mental health. While mentors and coaches are not professional counselors and should never take on that role (unless they have been trained in it), it is helpful for them to have a Biblical understanding of mental health so they can better coach their clients in the emotional realm and refer clients to mental health care professionals when appropriate. That’s why we are so excited to share a nine-part sermon series called “Help and Hope for our Mental Health” from my coach, Pastor Daron Lindemann. We pray that this deep dive into mental health and the gospel encourages you personally and blesses your mentoring. Pastor Daron’s Recommended Christian Mental Health Books * Deep as the Sea by Pastor Timothy Bourman * Carry Your Own Backpack by Holly Schneider * A Guide to Mental and Emotional Wellness by Dr. Jennifer Londgren * Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel Notes When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. (Matthew 26:30) Then Jesus told them, “This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written: ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’” (Matthew 26:31) “But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.” (Matthew 26:32) When you are in a group like that—where Jesus leads more than anyone … Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.” “Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same. (Matthew 26:33-35) There’s double sin here. Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” (Matthew 26:36) “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” (Matthew 26:38) Look around. This is our group, and Jesus is our leader. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS * Work with your LifeGroup and make a list of at least 10 blessings of “groupness” your group members have experienced. Then read Colossians 3:12-17. Make a list of 3 ways you could improve group life. * True or False—“Superior irritation” with a group is more dangerous than “solitary isolation” from a group. * How important were groups to Jesus while he was on this earth, and how important will they be when we’re with him in heaven? Get full access to Gospel-Centered at www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/subscribe

    31 min
  3. How to Have Healthy Conflict

    05/13/2025

    How to Have Healthy Conflict

    In gospel-centered mentoring, we aim to help mentees become wholehearted followers of Jesus in four different realms: the spiritual, physical, emotional, and social/vocational. Generally, it seems the most difficult realm to address is the emotional. One reason for this may be that many modern Christians don’t have a clear and accurate picture how the Bible addresses issues of mental health. While mentors and coaches are not professional counselors and should never take on that role (unless they have been trained in it), it is helpful for them to have a Biblical understanding of mental health so they can better coach their clients in the emotional realm and refer clients to mental health care professionals when appropriate. That’s why we are so excited to share a nine-part sermon series called “Help and Hope for our Mental Health” from my coach, Pastor Daron Lindemann. We pray that this deep dive into mental health and the gospel encourages you personally and blesses your mentoring. Pastor Daron’s Recommended Christian Mental Health Books * Deep as the Sea by Pastor Timothy Bourman * Carry Your Own Backpack by Holly Schneider * A Guide to Mental and Emotional Wellness by Dr. Jennifer Londgren * Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel Notes The best time to humbly accept instructions about how we handle conflict is not during a crisis. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. (Ephesians 2:15,16) As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle … (Ephesians 4:1,2) Attack problems, not people. Be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort … (Ephesians 4:2,3) Keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. (Ephesians 4:3-5) Believe the best about each other. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. (Ephesians 4:29,30) Connect instead of complain. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Ephesians 4:31,32) SPIRITUAL NEXT STEP “Make every effort” (Ephesians 4:3). What action will you take, beginning this week, to better practice the ABC’s of healthy conflict? Share with your group and ask for their prayers. Report back next week. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS * “Make every effort” (Ephesians 4:3). What action will you take, beginning this week, to better practice the ABC’s of healthy conflict? Share with your group and ask for their prayers. Report back next week. * Our culture is addicted to hateful human conflict. How? Why? What do we have that is stronger than hate? Read and discuss https://hegetsus.com/en/articles/love-your-enemies. * Read the other chapters in the book of Ephesians. If you’re in a group, assign one chapter to each person. Look for other examples or teaching in these chapters about the ABC’s of healthy conflict. * Is there ever a situation where it is holy and healthy to tell another person about someone with whom you’re in conflict? Discuss. * Where else does the apostle Paul call himself a “prisoner of the Lord?” What words of God the Holy Spirit in these verses provide you with promises? These promises empower you to lead conflict in your life to be healthy. Get full access to Gospel-Centered at www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/subscribe

    37 min
  4. Love for the Lonely

    05/05/2025

    Love for the Lonely

    In gospel-centered mentoring, we aim to help mentees become wholehearted followers of Jesus in four different realms: the spiritual, physical, emotional, and social/vocational. Generally, it seems the most difficult realm to address is the emotional. One reason for this may be that many modern Christians don’t have a clear and accurate picture how the Bible addresses issues of mental health. While mentors and coaches are not professional counselors and should never take on that role (unless they have been trained in it), it is helpful for them to have a Biblical understanding of mental health so they can better coach their clients in the emotional realm and refer clients to mental health care professionals when appropriate. That’s why we are so excited to share a nine-part sermon series called “Help and Hope for our Mental Health” from my coach, Pastor Daron Lindemann. We pray that this deep dive into mental health and the gospel encourages you personally and blesses your mentoring. Pastor Daron’s Recommended Christian Mental Health Books * Deep as the Sea by Pastor Timothy Bourman * Carry Your Own Backpack by Holly Schneider * A Guide to Mental and Emotional Wellness by Dr. Jennifer Londgren * Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel Notes A 2024 poll from the American Psychiatric Association found that one in three Americans feels lonely every week. “God is always with us,” but … Without a doubt, God was on the Israelites’ side. All the Israelites grumbled against Moses and Aaron. (Numbers 14:2) God was with them. They weren’t with God. “Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance.” (Deuteronomy 31:7) “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Deuteronomy 31:8) God has already faced the impossible loneliness you face. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS * How do you encourage someone who is lonely? Read these 7 helpful ideas. https://christianfamilysolutions.org/2024/05/06/love-for-the-lonely/ * Purchase and read Lonely Less: 6 Steps to a Less Lonely Life by Pastor Mike Novotny from Time of Grace. You’ll learn practical steps to help you find joy in God’s daily presence, build bridges in your family, fight for face-to-face friendships, and share the love you want to receive. * Dig and Discuss—Read Numbers 14. The chapter begins and ends with rebellion against the Lord; what evidence reveals that to be true? What makes the actions of Joshua, Caleb and Moses so courageous? What is similar or different between a child’s timeout and God’s description of the next 40 years for the Israelites? * True or False—Loneliness is a sin. Get full access to Gospel-Centered at www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/subscribe

    28 min
  5. Five Action Steps to Prevent Suicide

    04/28/2025

    Five Action Steps to Prevent Suicide

    In gospel-centered mentoring, we aim to help mentees become wholehearted followers of Jesus in four different realms: the spiritual, physical, emotional, and social/vocational. Generally, it seems the most difficult realm to address is the emotional. One reason for this may be that many modern Christians don’t have a clear and accurate picture how the Bible addresses issues of mental health. While mentors and coaches are not professional counselors and should never take on that role (unless they have been trained in it), it is helpful for them to have a Biblical understanding of mental health so they can better coach their clients in the emotional realm and refer clients to mental health care professionals when appropriate. That’s why we are so excited to share a nine-part sermon series called “Help and Hope for our Mental Health” from my coach, Pastor Daron Lindemann. We pray that this deep dive into mental health and the gospel encourages you personally and blesses your mentoring. Pastor Daron’s Recommended Christian Mental Health Books * Deep as the Sea by Pastor Timothy Bourman * Carry Your Own Backpack by Holly Schneider * A Guide to Mental and Emotional Wellness by Dr. Jennifer Londgren * Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel Notes “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” (1 Kings 19:3,4) How can a Christian consider or commit suicide? All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again. (1 Kings 19:5,6) 5 action steps outlined by Christian Life Resources * Ask: Inquire directly, “Are you thinking about ending your life?” * Be Present: Listen actively to understand their thoughts and feelings. * Ensure Safety: Keep a line of sight. * Facilitate Connections: Help them get help. * Follow Up: Check in on them later. The angel of the Lord came back a second time and touched him and said, “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.” So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. (1 Kings 19:7,8) DISCUSSION QUESTIONS * Export these three excellent resources that help prevent suicide * https://christianliferesources.com/suicide-prevention/ A comprehensive guide for the who, what, why and how to help. * https://988lifeline.org/ Immediate online chat or phone call available for anyone with suicidal thoughts. Inspirational stories that offer hope. * https://christianfamilysolutions.org/mental-health-moments/ Sign up to receive a weekly mental health email packed with teaching and tools. * How can a Christian possibly consider suicide? Study Romans 7:15-25. Discuss the problem and the solution. * Evaluate this advice to a friend struggling with depression: “Just pray and it’ll be okay. That’s what worked for me.” Get full access to Gospel-Centered at www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/subscribe

    23 min
  6. The Dos and Don'ts of Mental Health Disorders

    04/21/2025

    The Dos and Don'ts of Mental Health Disorders

    In gospel-centered mentoring, we aim to help mentees become wholehearted followers of Jesus in four different realms: the spiritual, physical, emotional, and social/vocational. Generally, it seems the most difficult realm to address is the emotional. One reason for this may be that many modern Christians don’t have a clear and accurate picture how the Bible addresses issues of mental health. While mentors and coaches are not professional counselors and should never take on that role (unless they have been trained in it), it is helpful for them to have a Biblical understanding of mental health so they can better coach their clients in the emotional realm and refer clients to mental health care professionals when appropriate. That’s why we are so excited to share a nine-part sermon series called “Help and Hope for our Mental Health” from my coach, Pastor Daron Lindemann. We pray that this deep dive into mental health and the gospel encourages you personally and blesses your mentoring. Pastor Daron’s Recommended Christian Mental Health Books * Deep as the Sea by Pastor Timothy Bourman * Carry Your Own Backpack by Holly Schneider * A Guide to Mental and Emotional Wellness by Dr. Jennifer Londgren * Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel NOTES About half of all people in the United States will be diagnosed with a mental disorder at some point in their lifetime. Pay close attention to the words “spirit” and “Spirit.” The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. (1 Corinthians 2:10-12) The examiner is the giver and the gift of holiness in us. The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things, but such a person is not subject to merely human judgments. (1 Corinthians 2:14,15) Estimates suggest that only half of all people with mental disorders get the treatment they need. Why? For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and self control. (2 Timothy 1:7) We have the mind of Christ. (1 Corinthians 2:16) SPIRITUAL NEXT STEP The Book Winning the War in Your Mind, and the readings from “Jesus, Our Savior: Lenten Devotions from Time of Grace” on YouVersion provide more help and hope for mental health. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS * True or False — It is easier to care for a loved one who has lost both legs than a loved one with a mental disorder, because a person’s limitations without legs are easier to see, understand, and support. * Recall two reasons that people with mental health disorders don’t get the treatment that they need. What is the solution according to 2 Timothy 1:7? Explain. * Share 1-3 fresh insights or new tools you have gained from the Help and Hope for Mental Health series after 4 weeks. Get full access to Gospel-Centered at www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/subscribe

    35 min
  7. Life after Trauma

    04/14/2025

    Life after Trauma

    In gospel-centered mentoring, we aim to help mentees become wholehearted followers of Jesus in four different realms: the spiritual, physical, emotional, and social/vocational. Generally, it seems the most difficult realm to address is the emotional. One reason for this may be that many modern Christians don’t have a clear and accurate picture how the Bible addresses issues of mental health. While mentors and coaches are not professional counselors and should never take on that role (unless they have been trained in it), it is helpful for them to have a Biblical understanding of mental health so they can better coach their clients in the emotional realm and refer clients to mental health care professionals when appropriate. That’s why we are so excited to share a nine-part sermon series called “Help and Hope for our Mental Health” from my coach, Pastor Daron Lindemann. We pray that this deep dive into mental health and the gospel encourages you personally and blesses your mentoring. Pastor Daron’s Recommended Christian Mental Health Books * Deep as the Sea by Pastor Timothy Bourman * Carry Your Own Backpack by Holly Schneider * A Guide to Mental and Emotional Wellness by Dr. Jennifer Londgren * Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel NOTES Your wound is as deep as the sea. Who can heal you? (Lamentations 2:13)? Trauma is a word that comes from the Greek language. It means “wound.” * 70% of adults in the U.S. have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. * Around 15 million people annually are diagnosed with PTSD. * 1 in 3 women experiences sexual assault. Event. Experience. Effect. Trauma is real. God is real. God is Lord over all trauma. The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all. (Psalm 34:17-19) Recovery from Trauma Safety. Remembrance and Mourning. Reconnection. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS * Explore the book Deep as the Sea: Letters to Survivors of Trauma. From your experience, how accurate are the 4 effects of trauma outlined on pp. ix-xiv? * What do theologians mean by “the psychological Word” (pp. xv1-xviii)? * From your experience, how accurate are the 3 stages of trauma recovery outlined on pp. 103-106? * Consider 3 reading assignments for 3 members of your group for the 3 different parts of the book (Safety, Remembrance and Mourning, and Reconnection) then each group member reports back to the group. * Read Psalm 147:3 says that God “heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” In what ways do the surrounding verses in Psalm 147:1-11 provide deeper insight to this promise of God? * True or False — Full recovery from trauma is possible for anyone, and expected for Christians. Get full access to Gospel-Centered at www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/subscribe

    35 min
  8. (Mis)understanding Mental Health, Part 2

    04/07/2025

    (Mis)understanding Mental Health, Part 2

    In gospel-centered mentoring, we aim to help mentees become wholehearted followers of Jesus in four different realms: the spiritual, physical, emotional, and social/vocational. Generally, it seems the most difficult realm to address is the emotional. One reason for this may be that many modern Christians don’t have a clear and accurate picture how the Bible addresses issues of mental health. While mentors and coaches are not professional counselors and should never take on that role (unless they have been trained in it), it is helpful for them to have a Biblical understanding of mental health so they can better coach their clients in the emotional realm and refer clients to mental health care professionals when appropriate. That’s why we are so excited to share a nine-part sermon series called “Help and Hope for our Mental Health” from my coach, Pastor Daron Lindemann. We pray that this deep dive into mental health and the gospel encourages you personally and blesses your mentoring. Pastor Daron’s Recommended Christian Mental Health Books * Deep as the Sea by Pastor Timothy Bourman * Carry Your Own Backpack by Holly Schneider * A Guide to Mental and Emotional Wellness by Dr. Jennifer Londgren * Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel NOTES Status quo is attractive to mental unwellness. “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind,’ and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Luke 10:27) * Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological, spiritual and social well-being. * It affects how we think, feel, and behave, handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. * Good mental health helps us cope with life’s challenges, work productively, and maintain healthy relationships. * It is influenced by factors including spiritual resilience, professional help when needed, and self-care. Mental Health Myth #1—Self-care is selfish. Even Jesus needed help. Even Jesus needed to take care of himself. Mental Health Myth #2—Self-talk is crazy. “You don’t deserve to be healthy.” There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus … The mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. (Romans 8:1,6) Mental Health Myth #3—I self-identify is my best self. Your best self is an identity you don’t choose SPIRITUAL NEXT STEP Explore the “One Minute Pause” app (link here) for healthier self-care, self-talk and identifying as your best self. It guides users to relax, enjoy peace in God, and spend 1, 3, 5 or 10 minutes in biblical meditation. Try it for a week. How is it helping you? Report back to your group. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS * Explore the “One Minute Pause” app for healthier self-care, self-talk and identifying as your best self. It guides users to relax, enjoy peace in God, and spend 1, 3, 5 or 10 minutes in biblical meditation. Try it for a week. How is it helping you? Report back to your group. * Read the following verses, and for each verse answer this question: “How does this help me love my best self God’s way?” Psalm 139:13,14; Isaiah 43:1; Romans 8:17; 1 Corinthians 6:19, 12:27; 1 Peter 2:9. * As a LifeGroup or gathering of friends, purchase all 4 recommended books about mental health. Commit to at least one person in your group reading each book, and reporting highlights, within the next 7 weeks of the series. Get full access to Gospel-Centered at www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/subscribe

    34 min
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Equipping mentors to help mentees develop into wholehearted Children of God who rest in Christ fully and reflect him faithfully in every realm of their lives www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site

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    Exploring the values and methods of Christian mentoring that is built around our identity in Christ.
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    © Matthew and Christine Doebler
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