The Gift of Modern-Day Apostles vs Apostolic Ministers
The main role of an apostle or apostolic person is to lead and disciple a group of people using the principles and practices set by the original apostles. While this term, for many, has been misused and caused many Christians to overlook its significance in today's society. “Apostles" and "Apostolic ministers" are related but have different purposes and functions.
Regardless of whether you hold that title, God is calling you to operate in that gift. Many of you possess the spiritual gift of apostleship, similar to the early apostles. In this post, my goal is to illustrate how they both function now and from an online ministry perspective.
Who Are Today’s “Apostles”?
This is a person God has called and commissioned for a specific mission. Their function as an apostle is based on the message He has called you to share and the people He has assigned you to. The role of an apostle is that of a foundational leader. As an apostle, you possess certain qualities and functions associated with apostleship in the early church. For example, apostles back then were called to teach and preach the gospel. This is still relevant today; the difference is how. For many, you will be called to share messages that align with the Bible in a contemporary way. Depending on how God has called you to articulate your message, it will separate you from the crowd and attract the right people to you and your ministry.
As a modern-day apostle, you have the opportunity to leverage technology and online platforms to expand your reach and impact. This can include:
Online teaching and discipleship: Using video conferencing, podcasts, and other digital tools to provide biblical teaching and discipleship resources to a wider audience.
Virtual community building: Creating online forums or membership groups to foster fellowship, support, and accountability among believers is a great way to build trust with your group of people.
Global outreach: Using the online platforms to connect with people around the world, share the gospel, and build relationships with potential partners and supporters.
Resource sharing: Making sermons, blog posts, and other resources available online to equip and empower believers in their faith journeys.
By merging the principles of apostleship with modern digital tools, today's apostles can meet the church's needs and promote God's kingdom in the 21st century. Just like scripture reminds us, we need to embrace technology in our mission. When you embrace these tools, you can share the message God has called you to share with people beyond your local reach.
What is God's Plan for an Apostle?
Modern-day apostles are individuals chosen by God for a distinct purpose, as referenced in Ephesians 4:11-12, where it states that some are called to be apostles, others to be prophets, and so on, all for the equipping of the saints for the work of the ministry. The foundation they lay in the body of Christ is crucial because they encourage growth and maturity in faith groups.
The essence of apostleship today lies in the message entrusted to you. Just as the apostles of the early church were charged with proclaiming the gospel, the modern-day apostle is to share the transformative message of Christ in ways that resonate with their audiences. This resonates with Romans 12:2, which urges believers not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of the mind.
As you step into your calling, remember the qualities that characterised early apostles: boldness, wisdom, and a spirit of servitude. Acts 4:33 reminds us that with great power, the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, emphasising the critical role of empowerment through the Holy Spirit.
When articulating your message, consider the unique way God has crafted your experiences and insights. Your authenticity will attract those who are meant to be in your sphere of influence, as stated in Matthew 5:14-16, where believers are called to be the light of the world.
Ultimately, as you embrace your role as an apostle, reflect on 2 Corinthians 5:20, which identifies all believers as ambassadors for Christ. Your mission as a modern-day apostle is not only to share the gospel but to embody it, demonstrating His love and grace in every interaction. While trusting that God will equip you with the strength and wisdom needed to fulfil the calling placed upon your life.
“Apostolic” Ministers
This term refers to someone who acts like an apostle without necessarily claiming the same level of authority as a modern-day apostle. Your role as an apostolic minister can vary, but your mission is to reflect the attributes and principles of an apostle, while others operate in a apostolic framework and are called to function in the grace of an apostle for a season. Your mission will align with the mandate God has placed on you; this can be a ministry movement He wants you to lead within your sphere of influence or ministry niche.
You have a specific grace that enables you to lead a group of people. As an apostolic person, you can function in ministry online in a variety of ways. Some of you may choose to focus on teaching and preaching, while others may focus on pastoral care or community building.
Here are some examples of how apostolic people can function in ministry online:
Teaching and preaching: Apostolic people can use online platforms to share what they know with a wider audience. You can also use these platforms to answer questions and provide guidance on spiritual matters from your unique perspective.
Pastoral care: Apostolic people can use online platforms to connect with people who are seeking godly guidance or support. You can offer counselling, coaching, prayer, and meet other forms of pastoral needs.
Community building: Apostolic people can use online platforms to create a network of like-minded believers. These communities can provide support, fellowship, and opportunities for spiritual growth.
How apostolic people are using online platforms for ministry
Podcasting: Many apostolic people are using podcasts to share their teachings and messages from God.
Live streaming: Some apostolic people are using online tools like YouTube or Zoom to broadcast their services and events.
Social media: Apostolic people are using social media to connect with others within their niche and share their message in short-form content.
Online forums: Some apostolic people are using online forums to create faith-based community groups.
The internet provides a powerful tool for apostolic people to connect with others and share their message. By using online platforms effectively, apostolic people can reach a wider audience and make a greater impact on the world.
In summary, your ministerial assignment is to impact a group of people online or in person that needs your guidance, support, and encouragement.
