Overview
The session focused on understanding the true scriptural identity, authority, and role of apostles within the Christian faith, emphasizing their impact on individual believers and the church as a whole. Key themes included apostolic authority, the function of apostles as divine representatives, and the necessity for doctrinal clarity and structural reform in the church.
Apostles' Identity and Authority
- Apostles are more than ambassadors; they are invested with full power (plenary potentionary) to act as Christ's direct representatives.
- Apostolic office is an eternal role, predating the church, unlike the roles of bishops or pastors which require a church structure.
- Apostles serve as God's principalities of light, tasked with turning people from darkness to light and enacting heaven’s policies on earth.
- Distinction was made between genuine apostles and those falsely claiming the title, emphasizing the need for discernment and training.
Scriptural Foundations for Apostleship
- Ephesians 2:19–20: Apostles and prophets are foundational to the church, with Jesus as the chief cornerstone.
- Hebrews 12:23: The church operates under judicial oversight, functioning according to divine legislation rather than human opinion.
- Isaiah 58:12: Apostles restore generational foundations and repair spiritual breaches.
Apostolic Functions and Impact
- Apostles legislate eternity's intentions, restructuring and reforming church and societal systems to align with God’s design.
- Emphasis on apostles not just saving souls, but changing how life is lived and how believers engage with their eternal identity.
- Apostolic teachings dismantle false traditions and reconstruct believers' lives according to God’s original blueprint.
- Highlighted the importance of doctrinal clarity, structural reform, and functional accuracy across all domains of life.
Apostolic Practices in Worship and Service
- Worship under apostolic leadership is seen as a legal engagement with heaven’s court, not merely emotional expression.
- Apostolic worship includes strict protocol, function, and attention to fulfilling spiritual duties and responsibilities.
- Believers are called to move from passive attendees to active agents of sacred duty during worship.
Key Teachings and Takeaways
- Salvation is reframed as a governmental transfer and assignment, not just a spiritual event.
- Apostles shift believers from mortality-based to mission-centric living, emphasizing their immortal, eternal identity in Christ.
- The role of apostles includes confronting and correcting systems, beliefs, and practices that do not align with divine intent.
Recommendations / Advice
- Embrace apostolic teaching for deeper spiritual growth and alignment with God’s eternal purpose.
- Maintain reverence and proper protocol in worship, recognizing the authority and sovereignty of God.
- Remain vigilant against counterfeit leadership and pursue scriptural education and discernment.
Action Items
- TBD – Congregation: Reflect on and apply apostolic teachings to personal worship practices and daily living.
- TBD – Congregation: Support and intercede for apostolic leaders in their mission to legislate kingdom principles.