As I was reading about Native Americans and considering the move that the LORD is making within those communities, I took time to pen down some thoughts. I figured I would record them here. This is intended to be terse. Not a long expository essay about Apostles or Apostolic Office.
Pastors and even perhaps missionaries to some extent have been exceedingly frustrated because they are have attempted to do the wok of an APOSTLE- but obviously they aren't apostles. So the weight and frustrations experienced only have a limited grace and that of GOD's love, to keep them from being crushed.
When dealing with the Native Peoples in general, but in North America particularly. I've alluded to this before, but this is why apostles are so necessary for Native American revitalization and of course, it's already begun.
But Apostolic grace is needed to "set church" in these areas- barring any offense to the indigenous cultures. As much as customs can be retained in a manner appropriate to represent Christ- an Apostle's eyes can see- as the grace of GOD placed upon the apostle via the Apostolic office works in him.
In this, Christianity and particular the Western Culture has failed. Inherently seeking to make westernized people accept Christ. And mistaking the idea of cultural ratification through the gospel to mean "dress as I do", etc. But it is the Apostle's grace which sees appropriately Christ through the customs and with wisdom and power commands change, even softly-i.e. Paul at Mars Hill. Seeking then to make Christians who are indigenous as well, rather than westernized individuals who prematurely or ignorantly accept Christianity- as a culture or way of life without receiving The Christ.
However, to say the actions of such pastors or missionaries is inherently malicious or intentionally deceptive is untrue. For they can only function according to their sphere of authority within their spectrum of understanding. The function of Apostles is inherently different. The task then is for the body the to come into unity. To function within the prescribed foundations of scripture to allow for a healthily aligned, properly functioning body. There are some distinct challenges presented due to carious Ecclesiastical structures.
Three main considerations at this time:
I. Without a Vision People Perish
II.Spiritual Authority
III. Stepping Up-In Times of Ignorance GOD Winked at It.
I. Without A Vision People Perish
This is something often stated perhaps misstated at times. But as it relates to our reconciling and aligning the body an inherent struggle to right "settling" of the church has been a gross misunderstanding of the 5 fold offices. The idea and predictions of reinstating as it were the office of Apostles is new to many people. However, Bill Hamon predicted that the 1990's and 2000's would see the revitalization of this office. C. Peter Wagner wrote of this as well. Yet many are still not believing the existence of Apostles today. But until the church acknowledges this office and accepts this "New Vision" then growth will be inhibited.
II. Spiritual Authority
The other Ecclesiastical issue is concerning Spiritual Authority. WHOO! What a vast array of content to cover. But the idea of an Apostle doesn't fit into most concepts of authority. Questions like "where and how are Apostles to be placed?" What about Bishops? Or Prelates? How does the transition occur without total disruption of the structure? Or is a total disruption necessary? Should denominations be dissolved as such?
III. Stepping Up-In Times of Ignorance GOD Winked at It.
WHERE ARE THE APOSTLES?!? Do to such substantial ignorance so much time has passed without Apostles accepting their call or recognizing it. It is difficult if not impossible to institute this renewal if those who are Apostles will not acknowledge who they are as APOSTLES. In times of ignorance GOD winked but presently HE is calling. Who will answer?
