What is a Coach?

An Encourager
The roots of good coaching are in scripture. Consider the role of Joseph from Cypress who helped the ministry of others:

Acts 4:36 says that the apostles gave Joseph the nickname of Barnabus which means “Son of Encouragement” or “one called alongside to help”.

Barnabus saw the potential in Paul before the apostles and helped position him for ministry. (Acts 9:27)

He was with Paul in the good time (set apart, Acts 13:2) and the bad (persecution, Acts 13:50).

He had conflict with Paul over John Mark because he wanted to enable Mark to minister (Acts 15:36).

Barnabus raised others higher than himself. Acts 11:26 describes how Barnabus went to find Saul at Tarsus and brought him back to teach the people of Antioch when Barnabus could have done it himself.

And finally, you will notice as you read through Acts that in the beginning Barnabus is referred to first and then Paul. Later on, as Barnabus enabled Paul for ministry and raised Paul higher than himself they are referred to as Paul and Barnabus.

An Equipper
Ephesians 4:12 challenges us to equip the saints for ministry. Ministry coaches equip God’s people for the work of ministry by partnering with them to:

develop their God-given potential.

keep a balance between personal growth and ministry contribution.

stay focused on their God-given vision.

Reference: Empowering Leaders Through Coaching, p1-2

A Coach Fills the Gap
The collaborative partnership that a coach provides for a successful person fills a gap.

It’s not a gap of ignorance – you know your desired destination and what to do to get there.

It’s not a gap of intention - you want to get there.

It’s not a gap of effort – you have tried many times to reach your destination.

It’s not a gap of unconcern – you care about your destination and successfully making the journey.

It’s a structural gap – most successful people have some hoped for destination in life or ministry that they just can’t seem to get to on their own. It’s not that you don’t know how to get there, it’s not that you don’t want to get there, it’s not that you haven’t put out the effort to get there, and it’s not that you don’t care. You simply need a little more structure to make it happen. A coach provides the missing structure that allows you to reach your destination.

The Necessity of a Coach
Coaching is a proven way of developing sustained personal and professional growth. But click here to find out if you actually need a coach. OR………

More Questions? Do you still have more questions about coaching and what it is? Click here to read common myths and frequently asked questions about coaching.