Lecture on the Ascension Gifts and Church Governance

Introduction

• We live in an exciting time in human and church history.
• The church, known as Ecclesia, was birthed in Acts chapter 2, progressing through Acts 3 and 4.
• The church has been missing foundational elements, entering a "Full Circle season."

Foundation in Scripture

• Ephesians Chapter 1: Apostle Paul addresses the church in Ephesus, urging holiness and unity.
  • Emphasis on God's blessings and Christ's work in us.
• Ephesians Chapter 2, Verse 20: Church built on the foundation of apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone.
• Ephesians Chapter 1, Verse 17: The spirit of wisdom (apostolic) and revelation (prophetic) are crucial.

Roles of Apostles and Prophets

• Apostles: Establish faith, transform minds, and promote a kingdom mindset.
• Prophets: Impart hope, deliver God's messages, and encourage repentance and future vision.

Christ as the Cornerstone

• Christ embodies love, serving as the foundation alongside faith and hope (1 Corinthians 13).

Ephesians Chapter 3 and 4

• Chapter 3: Focus on walking and being governed by the Spirit.
• Chapter 4: Emphasizes unity in the Spirit, addressing occultic influences in Ephesus.
  • One Spirit, one body, one Lord, one faith, one baptism.
  • Grace is given according to Christ's gifts.

Ascension Gifts Overview

• Gifts given by Christ during Ascension: Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, Teachers.
• Not everyone is called to the office, but some are.

Functions of Each Role

• Apostles: Govern.
• Prophets: Guide.
• Evangelists: Gather.
• Pastors: Guard.
• Teachers: Ground.

Measures of Success

• Apostles: Focus on mission and sending out individuals for transformation.
• Prophets: Enable people to hear and obey God's voice.
• Evangelists: Reach and save souls.
• Pastors: Disciple and nurture the community.
• Teachers: Educate and clarify truth.

Building Through the Fivefold Ministry

• Teachers: Build libraries, love truth.
• Pastors: Build churches, nurture communities.
• Evangelists: Build armies, focus on soul-winning.
• Prophets: Build sanctuaries, facilitate encounters with God.
• Apostles: Build missional tribes and cities, focus on kingdom purposes.

Conclusion

• The fivefold ministry is vital for church growth and governance.
• Reflect on personal alignment with any of these roles in terms of worldview and leadership.