The Biblical word that is foundational to our understanding of mentoring is the Koine Greek term katartizo. It is translated in a variety of way in our English versions of the Bible and makes a fascinating study.
Word study on ‘Equip’ (katartizo)
katartizo, (kat-ar-tid’-zo); to complete thoroughly,
i.e. repair or adjust:–fit, frame, mend, (make) perfect (perfectly join together),
prepare, restore. (Vines) ‘kata’ …. – (lit) ‘down’ – “to put down, bed down ”
‘artios’ …. freshness, wholeness, newness, completeness (related. artos daily fresh bread)
(Matthew 4:21) Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them,
(Matthew 21:16 NRSV) and said to him, “Do you hear what these are saying?” Jesus said to them, “Yes; have you never read, ‘Out of the mouths of infants and nursing babies you have prepared (ordained) praise for yourself’?”
(Luke 6:40) A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher.
(1 Corinthians 1:10) I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united (perfectly joined together KJV) in mind and thought.
(2 Corinthians 13:11 NRSV) Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.
(Galatians 6:1) Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.
(Ephesians 4:11-12) He.. gave some to be apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers to prepare God’s people for works of service….
(1 Thessalonians 3:10 NRSV) Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore (supply NIV) whatever is lacking in your faith.
(2 Tim 3:16-17) All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and trianing in righteousness so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped (exartizo) for every good work.
(Hebrews 11:3) By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.
(Hebrews 13:21) Now may the God of peace … equip you (make you complete NRSV) with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
(1 Peter 5:10) And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you (make you perfect KJV), and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
(highlighted words are translations of forms of katartizo )