EVERYONE IS ACCOUNTABLE TO GOD! However, those who are followers of the Lord Jesus Christ are also accountable to the people we come into contact with because no matter where we are or what we do, we represent Christ in word or deeds.
Hebrews 10:24-25 states: “24. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 25. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another–and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
This passage from Hebrews is the classic example of what an Accountability Partner is; one who encourages the mentoree’s thoughts and works as taught through the good faith, love, and word of Jesus Christ. When a believer is dealing with a problem, it is good that he/she has a fellow believer who is positioned outside of that problem, share their burden, and also give them support.
Accountability partners also act as Prayer Partners for those they are mentoring. James 5:16 verse states :
“16. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.”
Even though the prayer of righteous man is powerful and effective, Matthew 18:19-20 also gives us this assurance:
- “Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.”
Accountability partners also assist their mentoree’s in living a Christian Lifestyle. The mentor must be very careful here; she/he don’t want to find themselves “MEDDLING,” and they don’t want to take on the role of Judge or Critic either. They are in position as Mentor or Guide ONLY! Remember what the Word tells us in Galations 6:1-6:
“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. 2. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, 5. for each one should carry his own load. 6. Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.”
An Accountability Partner should know the scriptures well, be spiritually mature, and understands that it is always the Word of God which is the final authority and has the final say about whatever problem or issue.
Accountability partners MUST be able to hear from God! When those issues come up that require prayer and fasting, the accountability who can only come up with “MAYBE GOD THIS, or MAYBE GOD THAT” will not only be ineffective, but she/he will soon lose credibility. Remember what the Word says in James 5:12b:
“. . . but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.”
I don’t believe that the Lord would tell us to give a sure and direct answer would turn around and give us a “MAYBE” for an answer. It is good to know the scriptures, but it is better to know the author.
CONCLUSION
Having an Accountability Partner is a great way for a Christian to grow and mature in the Lord; if it is done properly. It may also be good practice to have men serve as accountability partners for other men, and women for other women.