Thoughts are powerful things: they can be liberating and empowering, or limiting and demoralizing.
A common story told regarding the captivating power of thoughts is that of the training of elephants. As it goes, young elephants are taken and using heavy chains are tethered to stakes driven deep into the ground. The young elephant continually pulls and struggles against the chain, eventually giving up and “learning” it cannot get free. Once this has happened, even as a full-grown elephant, it can be tethered with a rope and stake because the elephant “believes” they cannot get free.
We find the same process happens in our lives when God sends us illumination of His kingdom and it’s power. We have a series of thoughts that affect how we process this illumination; unfortunately, many times these thoughts limit what God desires to do with in us.
What is the source of these limiting thoughts? They are from the traditions of men. Speaking of the effects of the Pharisee’s’ teachings, Jesus said they were “nullifying and making void and of no effect [the authority of] the Word of God through your tradition, which you [in turn] hand on” (MK 7:13 AMP). They were nullifying the authority of the Word of God. Now how can that happen? Isn’t God’s word all-powerful? Yet they were rendering it useless. The key to grasping this is in the word “traditions.”
The word used for traditions is paradosis and means “giving over, giving up, surrender.”* It derived from paradidoomi which according to Thayer’s means: “to give into the hands (of another),” “to give over into (one's) power or use.” This word is used 121x and in 100 of them it us used in the negative sense of taking or handing over into captivity.
So the principle here is that the traditions of men create thought processes that take us into captivity. This captivity of thoughts, prevent us from see the truth or illumination of the Word of God, thus limiting its effectiveness in our lives.
*For more about the definition of tradition see blog “What Stops Us From Being Apostolic?” our book Apostolic Authority, Every Believer’s Privilege.
Showing posts with label apostolic authority. Show all posts
Showing posts with label apostolic authority. Show all posts
Monday, March 9, 2009
Monday, February 16, 2009
God's Understudy
In the world of theater, most of us are familiar with the understudy. This is the individual who is to learn a particular role and be prepared to step up and replace the main actor if necessary.
There is another definition of understudy, it is: one who is trained to do the work of another. To me, this concept goes well with the biblical idea of image and representation.
Representation: the action or fact of one person standing for another so as to have the rights and obligations of the person represented Miriam Webster On line Dictionary
Adam, as the image of God, was to act as His representative to creation. Adam was to stand in for God, if you will, in regards to the interaction with creation. Doing such, Adam was given the same basic rights as God.
For instance, God brought the animals to Adam for him to name them. In the biblical sense, naming was a demonstration of authority over something. So Adam was exercising a God given authority when he spoke the names of the animals. Which brings us to the next point: how did Adam demonstrate this authority from God? He spoke.
In the creation process, God exercised his power by speaking; “let there be” and it happened. As God’s representative (standing in with the same rights) Adam exercised his God given authority by acting just like God did – he spoke it.
In Gen 2:19 tell us “and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof.” The idea here is more than just what they were called, but it is a defining of them. In the original text, “the name there of” is one word and it speaks of being placed in a conspicuous position, a brand or putting something in its place. By speaking, Adam defined or established the identity of these animals; he was acting as God’s representative.
Being born again, we have been renewed after the image of the one who created us, Col 3:10, therefore our responsibility is the manifestation and the representation of the one who created us. We are to make Him real and have been authorized to act on His behalf in this world. This is the essence of apostolic authority: we have been sent by Jesus to operate by His authority to continue His purpose(Jn 17:18).
Paul tells us in 2 Cor 5:18-20, that we have been given the “ministry” & “word of reconciliation.” It is our privilege and responsibility to represent the Kingdom of heaven and affect the reconciliation of man to God. It is when we are actively involved in this purpose, we will see the power of the Kingdom revealed in our lives.
There is another definition of understudy, it is: one who is trained to do the work of another. To me, this concept goes well with the biblical idea of image and representation.
Representation: the action or fact of one person standing for another so as to have the rights and obligations of the person represented Miriam Webster On line Dictionary
Adam, as the image of God, was to act as His representative to creation. Adam was to stand in for God, if you will, in regards to the interaction with creation. Doing such, Adam was given the same basic rights as God.
For instance, God brought the animals to Adam for him to name them. In the biblical sense, naming was a demonstration of authority over something. So Adam was exercising a God given authority when he spoke the names of the animals. Which brings us to the next point: how did Adam demonstrate this authority from God? He spoke.
In the creation process, God exercised his power by speaking; “let there be” and it happened. As God’s representative (standing in with the same rights) Adam exercised his God given authority by acting just like God did – he spoke it.
In Gen 2:19 tell us “and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof.” The idea here is more than just what they were called, but it is a defining of them. In the original text, “the name there of” is one word and it speaks of being placed in a conspicuous position, a brand or putting something in its place. By speaking, Adam defined or established the identity of these animals; he was acting as God’s representative.
Being born again, we have been renewed after the image of the one who created us, Col 3:10, therefore our responsibility is the manifestation and the representation of the one who created us. We are to make Him real and have been authorized to act on His behalf in this world. This is the essence of apostolic authority: we have been sent by Jesus to operate by His authority to continue His purpose(Jn 17:18).
Paul tells us in 2 Cor 5:18-20, that we have been given the “ministry” & “word of reconciliation.” It is our privilege and responsibility to represent the Kingdom of heaven and affect the reconciliation of man to God. It is when we are actively involved in this purpose, we will see the power of the Kingdom revealed in our lives.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Get Real!
There are many theologies and philosophies in the world that men ascribe to. Wars have been initiated and continue to be propagated over these various beliefs. It is interesting to note, however, that many of these ideologies have overlapping “truths” which ultimately become confusing to the “outsiders.” A frequent comment of individuals is “How do you know that is true?” That is an honest question. Usually, the reply to this is rhetoric of “sacred” words that the adherent believes would convince the other of the “rightness” of their ideology: which to many brings more confusion. How is one to know?
Image
Adam was created in the image of God: Jesus came as the visible image of an invisible God; and we have been renewed after the image of the one who created us. The common thread here is God is seeking an image of Himself to reveal creation. This idea of image has two concepts contained within its definition; the first one I want to address here and that is manifestation.
Manifest: to provide evidence for, stand as proof of, to make to appear distinctly
Since God is a spirit and does not have flesh and bone, from the beginning of creation He has sought a way to make Himself distinctly apparent. It has been His idea for us to have an intimate and obvious relationship with him. Unfortunately, the self –willed actions of Adam forfeited this privilege: thus Jesus and his purpose. Now it is up to you and I, the church, His body to continue the manifestation of God to the world.
However, we find the weakness of modern Christianity is that we have not made our King and his kingdom distinctly evident or plain from other beliefs. We are good and theological rhetoric, but short on manifestation.
Making Jesus evident or distinct is not about our buildings, programs or size (although there is nothing inherently wrong with them) it is about presenting Him in a way that is distinct from other ideologies.
Jesus came authentically, shaking up the religious thinkers of his day. He went beyond a religious check list and demonstrated an authentic truth of a love relationship. Everywhere he went, things happened. We see such things as:
As born again believer’s we are to continue the manifestation of Jesus. We have been sent* into the world with the same commission as Jesus (Jn 17:18, 20:21). We are told we will do greater works than what He did (Jn 14:21). It is by our actions that God is glorified (Mt 5:16). Our purpose for being renewed in the image of God is to make him plainly real to a world in darkness. This requires putting our words into action, placing some skin our theology.
Food for thought: How are you proving He is real?
*sent: this is from the Greek apostello (ap-os-tel'-lo;; set apart, i.e. (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively: (Strongs). This is the word that apostolos is derived from which is translated apostle. These two words form the basis for our presentation of the concepts of apostolic authority. See blog Defining Apostolic
Image
Adam was created in the image of God: Jesus came as the visible image of an invisible God; and we have been renewed after the image of the one who created us. The common thread here is God is seeking an image of Himself to reveal creation. This idea of image has two concepts contained within its definition; the first one I want to address here and that is manifestation.
Manifest: to provide evidence for, stand as proof of, to make to appear distinctly
Since God is a spirit and does not have flesh and bone, from the beginning of creation He has sought a way to make Himself distinctly apparent. It has been His idea for us to have an intimate and obvious relationship with him. Unfortunately, the self –willed actions of Adam forfeited this privilege: thus Jesus and his purpose. Now it is up to you and I, the church, His body to continue the manifestation of God to the world.
However, we find the weakness of modern Christianity is that we have not made our King and his kingdom distinctly evident or plain from other beliefs. We are good and theological rhetoric, but short on manifestation.
Making Jesus evident or distinct is not about our buildings, programs or size (although there is nothing inherently wrong with them) it is about presenting Him in a way that is distinct from other ideologies.
Jesus came authentically, shaking up the religious thinkers of his day. He went beyond a religious check list and demonstrated an authentic truth of a love relationship. Everywhere he went, things happened. We see such things as:
- fellowshipping with sinners
- commuting death sentences (woman in adultery)
- touching the outcasts of society (lepers)
- visiting the least popular in the neighborhood (tax collectors)
- demons were cast out
- sick were healed
- dead brought back to life
- his dream team was made up of hillbilly fishermen (no slam intended), a tax collector AND a traitor. (needs to work on his recruiting strategy here)
As born again believer’s we are to continue the manifestation of Jesus. We have been sent* into the world with the same commission as Jesus (Jn 17:18, 20:21). We are told we will do greater works than what He did (Jn 14:21). It is by our actions that God is glorified (Mt 5:16). Our purpose for being renewed in the image of God is to make him plainly real to a world in darkness. This requires putting our words into action, placing some skin our theology.
Food for thought: How are you proving He is real?
*sent: this is from the Greek apostello (ap-os-tel'-lo;; set apart, i.e. (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively: (Strongs). This is the word that apostolos is derived from which is translated apostle. These two words form the basis for our presentation of the concepts of apostolic authority. See blog Defining Apostolic
Monday, January 26, 2009
Adam's Purpose
Representative: One that serves as a delegate or agent for another.
– American Heritage Dictionary
Gen 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion…
This scripture gives us wonderful insight into God’s purpose for mankind. Adam was created in the image and likeness of God. Vines tells us that image means; "image or copy" of something in the sense of a replica. According to Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament, Likeness refers to the representational aspect of the image.
Adam was God’s image chosen to reveal or manifest Himself to creation. Through Adam, an invisible God made himself visible. But more than a visible image, Adam’s purpose was to be representational of God. As God’s likeness, he was to ACT as God’s representative thereby revealing the nature and characteristics of God by those actions.
Adam’s representational purpose was not manifest when God gave him dominion. It was manifest when Adam obeyed God’s command and named the animals. God’s image and likeness was revealed, not by Adam’s position, but by his obedient actions to the commands of God.
We manifest our King, his kingdom and our purpose when we obey and do what we were sent to do. This results in demonstrating to the world that we are of a greater kingdom than the one of this world
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Entitlement or Empowerment
"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day;
teach a man to fish and you feed him for life"
"You can give a person a handout or a hand up"
We have entered 2009 - yeah! There is something about a new beginning, a fresh start. Our president elect has promoted/promised change and many are anxiously awaiting his inauguration. Yet what are we expecting? Entitlement? Empowerment? One creates dependency the other independence.
The entitlement mentality is one where we look to someone else and expect them to supply us with what we are lacking. Is an attitude that what I need is owed to me and I am not the one responsible for it. This mentality creates an individual that will never live up to their potential. They will never discover what lies hidden with in them.
It is unfortunate, many times this attitude creeps into our spiritual lives. We present ourselves at church on Sunday expecting to be chilled and thrilled with a spiritual show and hold back our involvement until we have been sufficiently "moved". Our relationship with Jesus is one that we expect him to be our doctor, lawyer, banker, grocer or magic genie. We search the word of God as a cookbook, looking for that right recipe that will fix our current dilemma.
Now please do not get me wrong here - I am not saying that Jesus does not, at various times, work in our behalf to alleviate traumatic situations of our lives
What I am getting at is that this entitlement mentality fails to acknowledge the giftings and power that He has placed in us to use for His Kingdom. It is when we see the truth of His word and how it applies to our lives that we can become empowered to reveal His nature where it counts - in a hurting world.
Empowerment is living out, or expressing that divine DNA that has been placed in us with our born again experience.
- We are told that we would receive power with the Spirit infilling, then we are to GO and do something with it - make disciples.
- We are instructed to cleans ourselves from the filthiness of the flesh and spirit.
- We are able to excessively above all we can ask or think - if we use the power that dwells with in us.
- We have been given authority over the power of our enemy and we are to walk on the things he throws against us.
- We are to lay hands on sick and expect them to recover.
till next time-
martin
martin
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Apostolic Notes
Just released latest edition of Apostolic Notes, an ezine that we publish about monthly. The topic of this one is "Send It On Down." It deals with the attidude that we are waiting for God to pour out on us some special anointing and we will become instantly powerful, walking in apostolic authority.
However, the biblical truth is we are to walk led of the Spirit in us and by faith demonstrate what we are being shown by the Spirit. Check it out at: www.apostolicmissions.org/senditondown.html
However, the biblical truth is we are to walk led of the Spirit in us and by faith demonstrate what we are being shown by the Spirit. Check it out at: www.apostolicmissions.org/senditondown.html
Monday, November 10, 2008
Reinforcing Our Traditions
This weekend was good for me in regards to kingdom connections. In one instance, I came across a new book this weekend on the web, Cardboard Astronaut by Armando Heredia. It is so great to find what you feel are like-minded Kingdom people. In the chapter on Informed Resistance he makes this statement:
This is so true. To me, this is a vivid illustration of how a stronghold of traditional thinking limits us. As God brings to each of us fresh illumination of His word and it's application, because it does not fit our pre-determined criteria, we choose to ignore it. This continues to repeatedly reinforce our strongholds.
How many times have God inspired applications been cast aside, because we cannot quite figure out how to place it in the confines of our structure. I am working on a future Apostolic Notes ezine regarding this and what Jesus said about putting new wine into old wineskin.
"Truth comes in fragments, sometimes truth has thorns, sometimes it is heavy, and it rarely fits into our pre-made little fire ring, but rather than expand our ring we throw down the pieces that don’t fit and wait for the one’s that do, even if they are few and far in between."
This is so true. To me, this is a vivid illustration of how a stronghold of traditional thinking limits us. As God brings to each of us fresh illumination of His word and it's application, because it does not fit our pre-determined criteria, we choose to ignore it. This continues to repeatedly reinforce our strongholds.
How many times have God inspired applications been cast aside, because we cannot quite figure out how to place it in the confines of our structure. I am working on a future Apostolic Notes ezine regarding this and what Jesus said about putting new wine into old wineskin.
Friday, November 7, 2008
The End Product of Traditions
In the previous postings, we have listed some of the major traditions of modern Christianity that can be obstacles to operating in apostolic authority. The end product of these traditions is the creation of strongholds in our minds.
Paul states in 2 Cor 10:4 that the power we have can cast down strongholds. In the next verse, he elaborates on the nature of these strongholds. The Amplified Bibles says: "[Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed one)" (2 Cor 10:5 emphasis add). Paul is telling us that strongholds are arguments, reasonings, thoughts and purposes that are contrary to the purpose of God.
This is why many in the modern church do not accept the illumination of the word of God. It goes against thier arguments, theories or reasoning. Comments like: "This is the way we have always done it" or "If it was good enough for my granddaddy, it is good enough for me" or even, "This is they way our denomination does it." Are all indications of strongholds. They are reasoning or arguing why they will not accept the illumination of truth.
In regards to church leadership and strongholds: How many times do we attempt to place new illumination of the word, into our standard form or procedures of doing church? We need to be willing to allow the Spirit to discern our thoughts that it can show us what is truly the the word of God in our structure/procedures and what is man-made that can be changed if necessary.
Paul states in 2 Cor 10:4 that the power we have can cast down strongholds. In the next verse, he elaborates on the nature of these strongholds. The Amplified Bibles says: "[Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed one)" (2 Cor 10:5 emphasis add). Paul is telling us that strongholds are arguments, reasonings, thoughts and purposes that are contrary to the purpose of God.
This is why many in the modern church do not accept the illumination of the word of God. It goes against thier arguments, theories or reasoning. Comments like: "This is the way we have always done it" or "If it was good enough for my granddaddy, it is good enough for me" or even, "This is they way our denomination does it." Are all indications of strongholds. They are reasoning or arguing why they will not accept the illumination of truth.
In regards to church leadership and strongholds: How many times do we attempt to place new illumination of the word, into our standard form or procedures of doing church? We need to be willing to allow the Spirit to discern our thoughts that it can show us what is truly the the word of God in our structure/procedures and what is man-made that can be changed if necessary.
till next time
martin
martin
Monday, November 3, 2008
More Traditions That Hinder
To recap, the traditions that are hindrances to the operation of apostolic authority are those that we teach that take precedents over the things of God. Jesus stated to the pharisees that they were "Making the word of God of none effect through your traditions." (Mark 7:13). The following are a couple more comparisions of the traditional church and the apostolic church.
A traditional church
…has most of its ministries inward focused
Due to the “bless me” gospel, most of the resources must be allocated to programs that make the individual feel good about themselves. This focus does not promote a transformation of the believer. There is a constant need to change the program to deliver the necessary stimulus to the people.
An apostolic church
…focus on outward ministries
Our focus should not be on self, but on others. Jesus commanded His church to go and make disciples – followers. (Matthew 28:19 AMP, Darby, NKJV). The focus of the church should be outside the four walls of the building.
A traditional church
…is built upon man’s ideas, structure and programs
Therefore, the result is only what man/flesh can produce. If a program is successful in attracting a crowd, it’s duplication is attempted by others hoping for the same results, producing the latest “fad” of church growth. Unfortunately, the success is not always duplicated, and frustration results.
An apostolic church
…is built based on the spiritual gifting in the body
The church should be structured around the giftings that the Lord has placed in the body. This would be the outcome of the ascension gifts (governing gifts) identifying, instructing, empowering and supporting the individual member’s gifts.
These last few posts have been presented to challenge our paradigm of church, not to condemn. As a pastor, I am addressing these issues, seeking the Lord’s direction as to how to lead this local assembly in a paradigm shift. The Lord will do this, because the church is His chosen vessel today. As we seek to align ourselves with the way He wants to build the church, we will find a flow of apostolic authority to accomplish His purpose.
till next time
martin
A traditional church
…has most of its ministries inward focused
Due to the “bless me” gospel, most of the resources must be allocated to programs that make the individual feel good about themselves. This focus does not promote a transformation of the believer. There is a constant need to change the program to deliver the necessary stimulus to the people.
An apostolic church
…focus on outward ministries
Our focus should not be on self, but on others. Jesus commanded His church to go and make disciples – followers. (Matthew 28:19 AMP, Darby, NKJV). The focus of the church should be outside the four walls of the building.
A traditional church
…is built upon man’s ideas, structure and programs
Therefore, the result is only what man/flesh can produce. If a program is successful in attracting a crowd, it’s duplication is attempted by others hoping for the same results, producing the latest “fad” of church growth. Unfortunately, the success is not always duplicated, and frustration results.
An apostolic church
…is built based on the spiritual gifting in the body
The church should be structured around the giftings that the Lord has placed in the body. This would be the outcome of the ascension gifts (governing gifts) identifying, instructing, empowering and supporting the individual member’s gifts.
These last few posts have been presented to challenge our paradigm of church, not to condemn. As a pastor, I am addressing these issues, seeking the Lord’s direction as to how to lead this local assembly in a paradigm shift. The Lord will do this, because the church is His chosen vessel today. As we seek to align ourselves with the way He wants to build the church, we will find a flow of apostolic authority to accomplish His purpose.
till next time
martin
Monday, October 27, 2008
More Traditions
The greatest hinderance to our operation of apostolic authority is the traditions of men that are taught as bible truth. Jesus commented to the pharisees that they taught the traditions of men, making the commandments of God of no effect. Here, in my opinion, are a couple more traditions we find in the modern church. Let me know what you think.
A traditional church is one that…
…continues a division between a professional clergy and laity resulting in a one man show. This attitude fosters a control issue, focusing power in the hands of a select few and does not promote a priesthood of believers.
The apostolic church is one that...
…recognizes that we are all one body, with different giftings The purpose of the ascension gift ministries is to equip or fully perfect the saints for the work of service (Ephesians 4:11 NASU). NOT to do all the work of service themselves.
A traditional church is one that…
…does not actively seek an empowerment of the believers. Due to the division of the clergy and laity, there is minimal effort placed on developing the spiritual giftings of the believer. The average believer is seen as a labor force for the programs of the church. Little is expected from them, so little is what they give.
The apostolic church is one that...
…empowers each believer in their spiritual gifting. The saints are to be equipped for the work of service or ministry. Each member is gifted and placed in the body as God chooses (1 Corinthians 12). The body should function effectively as each member is working in their gifting.
Next time, a couple of more traditions that may hinder us.
Martin
A traditional church is one that…
…continues a division between a professional clergy and laity resulting in a one man show. This attitude fosters a control issue, focusing power in the hands of a select few and does not promote a priesthood of believers.
The apostolic church is one that...
…recognizes that we are all one body, with different giftings The purpose of the ascension gift ministries is to equip or fully perfect the saints for the work of service (Ephesians 4:11 NASU). NOT to do all the work of service themselves.
A traditional church is one that…
…does not actively seek an empowerment of the believers. Due to the division of the clergy and laity, there is minimal effort placed on developing the spiritual giftings of the believer. The average believer is seen as a labor force for the programs of the church. Little is expected from them, so little is what they give.
The apostolic church is one that...
…empowers each believer in their spiritual gifting. The saints are to be equipped for the work of service or ministry. Each member is gifted and placed in the body as God chooses (1 Corinthians 12). The body should function effectively as each member is working in their gifting.
Next time, a couple of more traditions that may hinder us.
Martin
Friday, October 24, 2008
Traditions
Tradition it is the act of giving over, giving up or surrender. It has the same etymology as the word treason. Jesus said, “Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men,” (Mark 7:7-8). Jesus declares the results of these traditions in verse 13, “Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition.” According to Thayer’s “Making of none effect” is one word meaning “deprive of force and authority.”
Man’s traditions affect our faith by creating predetermined paradigms that hinder our ability to walk in apostolic authority. A paradigm is: “A set of assumptions, concepts, values, and practices that constitutes a way of viewing reality for the community that shares them.” American Heritage Dictionary (Dictionary.com). These traditional paradigms create a filter we view the Lord, His purpose and our spiritual lives through.
During my time of practice, occasionally, there would be a patient who would come in exasperated or frustrated and say,“Just do something.” I would explain that to help them, we needed to undergo a diagnostic process to determine WHAT the true SOURCE of their problem was. In the church today, many pastors and leaders are like these patients. They know something is wrong and they are frustrated. They look to do something, by grasping the latest church growth program, big name evangelist or that one special conference. I know, I have been there. It is my desire to help us walk in apostolic authority. This Apostolic Notes and the next one, are a diagnostic process to assist us in determining WHAT the true source of our problem could be.
A review of the modern church reveals some of the developed characteristics of man’s traditions. Along with these traditions I have also given food for thought about an apostolic approach.
A traditional church is a church that….
…preaches a “bless me” gospel
This gospel and its message is an attempt to alleviate man’s discomfort and pain. The Bible is seen as a cookbook with recipes to fix our current problem. This is a “self” focused gospel. Much of modern preaching is about how we are to be "healthy, wealthy and wise."
The apostolic church is a church that...
….preaches the Gospel of the Kingdom of Heaven
Jesus’ first message and that of the disciples was the gospel of the kingdom of heaven (Matt 4:17, 4:23, 9:35; Lk 9:60, 10:9). He did not come preaching how wonderful we are, He came declaring the reality of a Spiritual Kingdom. We are to be ambassadors of this kingdom. Our blessings are a by-product of obedience to His purpose.
The purpose of the apostolic church is to demonstrate and reveal our King and His kingdom. In the next couple of posts I will give more examples of man's traditions that have affected the modern church.
Till next time
Martin
Man’s traditions affect our faith by creating predetermined paradigms that hinder our ability to walk in apostolic authority. A paradigm is: “A set of assumptions, concepts, values, and practices that constitutes a way of viewing reality for the community that shares them.” American Heritage Dictionary (Dictionary.com). These traditional paradigms create a filter we view the Lord, His purpose and our spiritual lives through.
During my time of practice, occasionally, there would be a patient who would come in exasperated or frustrated and say,“Just do something.” I would explain that to help them, we needed to undergo a diagnostic process to determine WHAT the true SOURCE of their problem was. In the church today, many pastors and leaders are like these patients. They know something is wrong and they are frustrated. They look to do something, by grasping the latest church growth program, big name evangelist or that one special conference. I know, I have been there. It is my desire to help us walk in apostolic authority. This Apostolic Notes and the next one, are a diagnostic process to assist us in determining WHAT the true source of our problem could be.
A review of the modern church reveals some of the developed characteristics of man’s traditions. Along with these traditions I have also given food for thought about an apostolic approach.
A traditional church is a church that….
…preaches a “bless me” gospel
This gospel and its message is an attempt to alleviate man’s discomfort and pain. The Bible is seen as a cookbook with recipes to fix our current problem. This is a “self” focused gospel. Much of modern preaching is about how we are to be "healthy, wealthy and wise."
The apostolic church is a church that...
….preaches the Gospel of the Kingdom of Heaven
Jesus’ first message and that of the disciples was the gospel of the kingdom of heaven (Matt 4:17, 4:23, 9:35; Lk 9:60, 10:9). He did not come preaching how wonderful we are, He came declaring the reality of a Spiritual Kingdom. We are to be ambassadors of this kingdom. Our blessings are a by-product of obedience to His purpose.
The purpose of the apostolic church is to demonstrate and reveal our King and His kingdom. In the next couple of posts I will give more examples of man's traditions that have affected the modern church.
Till next time
Martin
Friday, October 17, 2008
What Stops Us From Being Apostolic?
We have presented the idea that the proof of being apostolic was not in our doctrine or structure, but it was obediently going and doing what we have been sent to do. The challenge we face is that in many (if not most) believers lives and churches we are not going. Now I understand there are always exceptions and there are churches and believers out there who are being apostolic. However, as a whole we are not accomplishing the great commission. So the question begs to be asked: “Why are we not being apostolic?”
Reviewing the early church, it is clearly seen that the apostles walked in a miracle producing authority. They performed the miraculous, and the Lord confirmed their preaching by signs and wonders. This miraculous demonstration of apostolic authority in the daily lives of the first believers was so powerful and convincing that cities were stirred to riots because of its affect, and a reverential fear or awe of God was produced with many souls being converted.
In the Christianity of today, we find that many of man’s ideas have become a hindrance to the operation of the Spirit, limiting the church’s ability to operate in apostolic authority. Jesus said, “Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men,” (Mark 7:7-8). Jesus further spoke of the result of holding the traditions of man in verse 13, “Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered:” According to Thayer’s “Making of none effect” is one word and it means “deprive of force and authority.”
The greatest hindrance to apostolic authority that is faced in this day and age, is the tradition of men and the resulting structure of traditional churches. Traditions create a biased paradigm that is used to filter scripture. This tainted view of scripture affects the individual’s faith and ability to walk in apostolic authority. Centuries of man’s tradition have created an organization that is far from the original apostolic church.
In the New Testament, the Greek word paradosis is translated as tradition 13 times, 11 times in a negative context and the two times it is used positive it must have a qualifying statement to make it positive. According to Thayer’s it means: “a giving over, giving up. 1. the act of giving up, the surrender: 2. a giving over which is done by word of mouth or in writing.” Most online English dictionaries that I have looked at include for the modern word tradition a component of a “handing down or over.”
According to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary; tradition’s etymology is Middle English tradicioun, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French tradition, from Latin tradition-, tradition and is the action of handing over. It is from the same root word as treason. (emphasis added)
Once again, according to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary; the etymology of treason is Middle English tresoun, from Old French traison, from Latin tradition-, traditio act of handing over, from tradere to hand over, betray. (emphasis added).
It should be a shocking revelation to us that tradition and treason have the same etymology. They mean a handing over of something. So we see the significance of tradition is that it can be considered a treason of beliefs or values that were once held by individuals or a group. In respect to the traditional church, we see that there has been a surrendering, a giving up or handing over of the power of God, as demonstrated through apostolic authority. This treasonous act has been a replacing of the commandments and power of God for the traditions of men. This is truly making the commands of God none affect.
In the next few Apostolic Notes Ezines I will present for discussion some areas of traditions that I believe are hindering us from being a true apostolic church. I encourage you to write me - agree, disagree, give more examples.
Till next time---
Martin
Reviewing the early church, it is clearly seen that the apostles walked in a miracle producing authority. They performed the miraculous, and the Lord confirmed their preaching by signs and wonders. This miraculous demonstration of apostolic authority in the daily lives of the first believers was so powerful and convincing that cities were stirred to riots because of its affect, and a reverential fear or awe of God was produced with many souls being converted.
In the Christianity of today, we find that many of man’s ideas have become a hindrance to the operation of the Spirit, limiting the church’s ability to operate in apostolic authority. Jesus said, “Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men,” (Mark 7:7-8). Jesus further spoke of the result of holding the traditions of man in verse 13, “Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered:” According to Thayer’s “Making of none effect” is one word and it means “deprive of force and authority.”
The greatest hindrance to apostolic authority that is faced in this day and age, is the tradition of men and the resulting structure of traditional churches. Traditions create a biased paradigm that is used to filter scripture. This tainted view of scripture affects the individual’s faith and ability to walk in apostolic authority. Centuries of man’s tradition have created an organization that is far from the original apostolic church.
In the New Testament, the Greek word paradosis is translated as tradition 13 times, 11 times in a negative context and the two times it is used positive it must have a qualifying statement to make it positive. According to Thayer’s it means: “a giving over, giving up. 1. the act of giving up, the surrender: 2. a giving over which is done by word of mouth or in writing.” Most online English dictionaries that I have looked at include for the modern word tradition a component of a “handing down or over.”
According to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary; tradition’s etymology is Middle English tradicioun, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French tradition, from Latin tradition-, tradition and is the action of handing over. It is from the same root word as treason. (emphasis added)
Once again, according to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary; the etymology of treason is Middle English tresoun, from Old French traison, from Latin tradition-, traditio act of handing over, from tradere to hand over, betray. (emphasis added).
It should be a shocking revelation to us that tradition and treason have the same etymology. They mean a handing over of something. So we see the significance of tradition is that it can be considered a treason of beliefs or values that were once held by individuals or a group. In respect to the traditional church, we see that there has been a surrendering, a giving up or handing over of the power of God, as demonstrated through apostolic authority. This treasonous act has been a replacing of the commandments and power of God for the traditions of men. This is truly making the commands of God none affect.
In the next few Apostolic Notes Ezines I will present for discussion some areas of traditions that I believe are hindering us from being a true apostolic church. I encourage you to write me - agree, disagree, give more examples.
Till next time---
Martin
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
The Proof Of Being Apostolic
Previously, we have defined that apostolic means being sent as the representative of Jesus Christ to reveal His kingdom. The definition of being “sent” includes four components, the fourth being the completion or manifestation of the duty is proof of the sending. This truth was even stated by Jesus himself in John 5:36: “But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent (apostello) me.” Jesus was saying the works I am doing, proves that I have been sent.
In Mark chapter 6, this process of sending is revealed as Jesus begins to send out the disciples. Beginning at verse seven, Jesus calls the twelve and commissions them. His instructions include an empowering, preparation and mode of operation. Then they were sent (apostello vs 7) out. These disciples had watched Jesus perform the miraculous. Now He has authorized and sent them to do the same. Can you imagine the excitement in their lives? They have been chosen by the Lord to go and act as His representative – to do what Jesus had been doing – WOW!
Lets Stop Here For A Moment - Fast forward 2000 plus years to 2007, the modern church era. We have been given the same commission as His first disciples. Jesus emphatically states that all power has been given to Him (Matthew 28:18). Following this statement He commissions the first church to GO and make disciples (Matthew 28:19). This is our commission for today. To accomplish this mission we are told that: He will go with us (Matthew 28:20), that signs would follow us (Mark 16:17-19), that we would do greater works (John 14:12), that we have already been blessed with all we need (Ephesians 1:3), that we are seated in a place of authority with Him (Ephesians 2:6) and that we have all been gifted to perform this commission (Ephesians 4:7, for further explanation see the book Apostolic Authority pg 38-40).
Back to the disciples of Mark 6. - After they had been called, empowered and instructed, they went! The fourth component of being apostello or sent is the completion or manifestation of the duty as proof of the sending. Verse 30 states “And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught.” Now this is significant to me; in verse 7 he called the twelve and sent them. It was in verse 30 AFTER they had completed or manifested their duty that they are called apostles! It was when they went and did what they were empowered to do that they became apostles. In their obedience to the sending, they were not just called apostles as a title of position – they were being apostolic.
The same applies for the modern church today. In my opinion, the proof of being apostolic is not in our structure or doctrine alone. It is if we are obeying the One who has sent us. This means WE MUST GO and DO what we have been sent to do; which is preaching and demonstrating the Gospel of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Many yeas ago, I read an article about a talk show host who interviewed some professional bodybuilders. In the conversation the host asked: “What do you do with all those muscles?” One of the bodybuilders responded by striking a particular pose. The talk show host responded: “No, I mean what do you do with all those muscles?” To which the bodybuilder changed to a different pose. This time the host stated: “You do not understand, What do you DO with all those muscles?” The bodybuilder struck yet another pose.
There is application of this story to the church today. We talk about who we are in Christ or what He wants to do with us. We speak of the authority or power that is available in the life of a believer. There is talk of the restoration of the ascension gift ministries. You can attend workshops and seminars on how to operate in spiritual gifts, authority or power. But the question needs to be asked of us: “What are we doing with all this authority?” In other words, are we GOING and DOING what we are sent to do? The proof of being Apostolic is in DOING what we are sent to do.
As I study and the Word speaks to me, I must evaluate my life. Will you join with me in this study and self evaluation to determine, are we talking or are we going? What must we do to fulfill His sending in our individual lives?
In Mark chapter 6, this process of sending is revealed as Jesus begins to send out the disciples. Beginning at verse seven, Jesus calls the twelve and commissions them. His instructions include an empowering, preparation and mode of operation. Then they were sent (apostello vs 7) out. These disciples had watched Jesus perform the miraculous. Now He has authorized and sent them to do the same. Can you imagine the excitement in their lives? They have been chosen by the Lord to go and act as His representative – to do what Jesus had been doing – WOW!
Lets Stop Here For A Moment - Fast forward 2000 plus years to 2007, the modern church era. We have been given the same commission as His first disciples. Jesus emphatically states that all power has been given to Him (Matthew 28:18). Following this statement He commissions the first church to GO and make disciples (Matthew 28:19). This is our commission for today. To accomplish this mission we are told that: He will go with us (Matthew 28:20), that signs would follow us (Mark 16:17-19), that we would do greater works (John 14:12), that we have already been blessed with all we need (Ephesians 1:3), that we are seated in a place of authority with Him (Ephesians 2:6) and that we have all been gifted to perform this commission (Ephesians 4:7, for further explanation see the book Apostolic Authority pg 38-40).
Such a place of privilege – we have been chosen to be His representatives.
Yet how do we prove to the world we are sent?
Yet how do we prove to the world we are sent?
Back to the disciples of Mark 6. - After they had been called, empowered and instructed, they went! The fourth component of being apostello or sent is the completion or manifestation of the duty as proof of the sending. Verse 30 states “And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught.” Now this is significant to me; in verse 7 he called the twelve and sent them. It was in verse 30 AFTER they had completed or manifested their duty that they are called apostles! It was when they went and did what they were empowered to do that they became apostles. In their obedience to the sending, they were not just called apostles as a title of position – they were being apostolic.
The same applies for the modern church today. In my opinion, the proof of being apostolic is not in our structure or doctrine alone. It is if we are obeying the One who has sent us. This means WE MUST GO and DO what we have been sent to do; which is preaching and demonstrating the Gospel of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Many yeas ago, I read an article about a talk show host who interviewed some professional bodybuilders. In the conversation the host asked: “What do you do with all those muscles?” One of the bodybuilders responded by striking a particular pose. The talk show host responded: “No, I mean what do you do with all those muscles?” To which the bodybuilder changed to a different pose. This time the host stated: “You do not understand, What do you DO with all those muscles?” The bodybuilder struck yet another pose.
There is application of this story to the church today. We talk about who we are in Christ or what He wants to do with us. We speak of the authority or power that is available in the life of a believer. There is talk of the restoration of the ascension gift ministries. You can attend workshops and seminars on how to operate in spiritual gifts, authority or power. But the question needs to be asked of us: “What are we doing with all this authority?” In other words, are we GOING and DOING what we are sent to do? The proof of being Apostolic is in DOING what we are sent to do.
As I study and the Word speaks to me, I must evaluate my life. Will you join with me in this study and self evaluation to determine, are we talking or are we going? What must we do to fulfill His sending in our individual lives?
Till next time---
Martin
Martin
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