Discipleship in teaching: Embracing the four postures of a ReWire teacher

In the changing landscape of Christian formation, pastoral leaders are tasked with the mandate of shaping and nurturing authentic disciples. How, then, does one approach the profound nuances of discipleship, transcending the bounds of conventional pedagogical frameworks?

The postures or methods of a ReWire teacher emerge not merely as methodological tools but as a paradigm shift, recalibrating the very essence of spiritual development. This model recognizes that teaching, especially in the realm of spiritual formation, is not a transactional procedure. 

It is a dynamic dance, a response…
1) to the moving rhythms of the Holy Spirit, 2) the needs of the diverse spectrum of learners, and 3) the essence of the material being imparted.

Teacher posture and dynamic discipleship

The concept of teaching postures provides a framework for facilitators to understand the different ways to approach teaching a specific topic in the curriculum. Facilitators should be prepared to adjust their posture to create a formational environment for their students, based on their discernment of the class dynamics and the Spirit's leading. 

We have identified four postures to guide teachers.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR POSTURE

At the heart of learning about faith is the ability to notice and respond to God's presence and movement. This posture embodies such an ethos, urging the facilitator to maintain awareness of these spiritual realities, shepherding individuals or groups deeper into cooperation with the movement of the Holy Spirit.

When facilitating the Spiritual Director posture, the facilitator may:

• Leave some questions unanswered, trusting instead in the work of the Holy Spirit and the process of deep transformation.

• Listen intently, creating space for individuals to explore, reflect, and articulate.

• Create space for spiritual reflection and contemplation.

DISCOVERY POSTURE

In the Discover posture, the teacher assumes the role of “guide” on a collective journey. This posture fosters an environment of exploration, wherein the facilitator curates spaces for meaningful spiritual dialogue and intrigue. The goal here is to propel disciples on a journey of spiritual discovery.

When facilitating the Discovery posture, the facilitator may:

• When exploring a particular topic, instead of simply delivering information, ask questions to encourage students to explore the topic for themselves.

• Ask questions that may shift perspective and allow for new insights.

• Encourage students to develop skills of observation and awareness.

TEACHING POSTURE

In the Teaching posture, the facilitator provides needed instruction on a specific point. All teaching is short in duration and provides information as a foundation for formational learning. The Teaching posture is most often used in order to shift towards one of the other postures.

When facilitating the Teaching posture, the facilitator may:

• “Teach to a question” - meaning, teach just enough around a specific topic in order to set the groundwork for a particular question or direction of exploration.

• Teach in a “how-to” manner, providing instruction for others to enact.

• Teach from a counter-perspective with the intention of creating angst and expanding learner perspectives.

REFLECTIVE POSTURE

Genuine discipleship necessitates introspection. This posture facilitates a quiet approach where everyone thinks deeply about a scripture or a lesson. The reflective teaching posture seeks to move past simply transferring information by prompting deeper personal awareness, connection, and examination. The teacher is like a fellow student, learning and reflecting with the group.

When facilitating the Reflective posture, the facilitator may:

• Facilitate contemplative dialogue wherein participants take turns sharing their reflections on a passage of scripture or deep truth.

• Lead a meditation or silent retreat.

• Encourage disciples to keep a journal of their spiritual reflections.

Teaching towards discipleship and transformation is more than just sharing religious terms and concepts. It calls for a broad and combined method, skillfully pulling together different ways of teaching to facilitate deeper exploration and self-awareness, while providing a pathway for sustained spiritual growth and transformation.

Explore our current course offerings to experience the ReWire approach to teaching.