Apostolic Ministry
Apostolic Ministry5
The Separation and Movements of the Apostles
By Watchman Nee0ACT 11:26ACT 13:2Watchman Nee emphasizes the significance of the church in Antioch as the model church, highlighting its clear foundation on the principles of the Holy Spirit's calling and the separation of workers for ministry. He explains that Barnabas and Saul were called by the Holy Spirit while they were actively ministering, illustrating that true apostleship requires divine initiation rather than human desire. The sermon underscores the importance of both personal revelation and corporate confirmation in the sending forth of workers, as well as the necessity for apostles to remain mobile and responsive to the Spirit's leading. Nee also stresses that the ministry of the Body of Christ should reflect unity and mutual support, rather than individualism or organizational division. Ultimately, he calls for a return to apostolic methods and spirituality to achieve genuine results in ministry.
"He Appointed twelve."- Mar 3:14
By G. Campbell Morgan0MAT 28:19MRK 3:14JHN 15:16G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the significance of Jesus' deliberate choice of the twelve apostles, highlighting that their selection was based on His sovereign will and purpose. He explains that Jesus appointed them not only to be with Him for intimate training but also to send them out to preach and exercise authority over evil spirits. Morgan reflects on the unique characteristics of each apostle, noting that while they were imperfect, they were chosen for their potential and the power Jesus would provide. He concludes with a call for believers to recognize their own calling and the responsibility that comes with it, reminding them that Jesus is responsible for their effectiveness in ministry.
He Sent Them - Two by Two
By G.W. North0LUK 10:1ACT 13:2G.W. North emphasizes the significance of sending out apostles and prophets together in the establishment of churches, highlighting that this combination ensures the fullness of spiritual gifts is present. He notes that while the practice of sending apostles two by two was initiated by Jesus, the early Church adapted this by pairing apostles with prophets, which reflects the value placed on prophetic ministry. North argues that prophecy is superior for church building, yet he acknowledges the importance of tongues when used correctly, warning against its potential misuse. He stresses that tongues, when abused, can mask sin and pride, but when aligned with the cross, they reveal God's wisdom and power. Ultimately, the sermon underscores the necessity of both gifts in the Church for fulfilling God's purpose.
Apostolic Principles
By Walter Beuttler0MAT 28:19MRK 3:14JHN 15:16Walter Beuttler emphasizes the significance of apostolic principles in ministry, focusing on the divine calling, ordination, and equipping of apostles. He explains that being chosen by God involves a personal relationship and a commitment to bear one's cross, while the call to ministry is a sovereign act of God that requires obedience and readiness. Beuttler highlights the importance of being taught by God and the transformative process that prepares individuals for effective ministry, underscoring that true effectiveness comes from a deep relationship with Jesus. He also discusses the necessity of being sent by God, which involves authority and accountability in fulfilling the Great Commission.
The Work and the Churches
By Watchman Nee0ACT 28:301CO 12:28Watchman Nee emphasizes the distinction between the work of apostles and the local churches, asserting that the apostolic ministry is foundational to the establishment of churches, but the two should not interfere with each other. He explains that while apostles are responsible for the work of spreading the gospel and founding churches, local churches are to be managed by elders who oversee the spiritual needs of their community. Nee warns against the confusion that arises when the responsibilities of the church and the work are mixed, leading to sectarianism and a loss of the local character of the church. He stresses that the ultimate goal of all apostolic work is to build up local churches, not to create separate entities or organizations. The sermon calls for clarity in understanding one's role, whether as an elder or an apostle, to ensure the health and growth of the church.