Friday, July 27, 2007

Apostles

I am starting a new leadership book today - Spiritual Leadership by Henry & Richard Blackaby. I read it a few years ago, but as it was significant influence on my life back then I thought it was worth a revisit.


a Jesus thought...
Jesus was baptised too, and as he was praying heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. (Luke 3:21-22)

a Godly thought...
Disciples of Jesus, seeking their neighbourhoods to be transformed, need continued identity clarification, inspiration and support if they are to be true to God's reign. This is the primary role of the church. (p124 Barker)

a leading thought...
While many theological seminaries are enjoying healthy enrollments, denominational leaders are bemoaning the fact that their schools are graduating so few leaders. Although the leadership shortage is universally acknowledged, there is little consensus on how to discover and develop leaders. Seminary professors are bewildered that so few successful leaders are emerging from their graduating classes. (p9 Blackaby)

a Dave thought...
I am a real believer in Ephesians 4 - APEPT and believe that all believers are strong in at least one of these areas, but it does not say in scripture we are all to be leaders. Most bible colleges attract some evangelists but mainly pastors and teachers. Most apostles and prophets are not attracted to this sit down and listen style of learning. But when we need rebirthing and growth that is when the apostles and prophets need to be encouraged and empowered.

When the salvos began we had hundreds of apostles and prophets being released quickly into ministry and that is how we spread so quickly around the world.

So at this time of decline of Christendom in the western world we again need the apostles & prophets to stand up. All five offices are equally important to build the body but now is the time for us to identify, train and empower apostles and prophets.



Just a thought.

1 comment:

sye said...

i totally agree. God help us.

- sye :)