Author: petebeck3

Pete Beck III ministered as a pastor and Bible teacher in Burlington for over 34 years. He is married to Martha, with whom he has four children, ten beautiful grandchildren, and four amazing great grandchildren. He ministers in his local church as a Bible teacher and counselor. He has published two books - Seeing God's Smile and Promise of the Father - as well as a wide variety of Bible-related articles which he has compiled into books in PDF form.

The Gospel Is the Only Way to Escape God’s Judgment

Peter concluded his Acts 2 gospel presentation by exhorting his hearers to take steps to save themselves from God’s looming judgment.

Then Peter continued preaching for a long time, strongly urging all his listeners, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation!” Acts 2:40 (NLT)

Those people had recently murdered their Messiah, which made them all the more ready to respond. We are far removed historically from that event, but all of us are guilty of betraying our Maker. There is none righteous in God’s sight, not even one.

As the Scriptures say, “No one is righteous— not even one. Romans 3:10 (NLT)

None of us wants to be judged for our sins. Unless our consciences have been “seared,” we all know that we are guilty before God. The Bible teaches us that the “wages of sin” is death. One of the unchangeable attributes of God is his justice. He hates sin and cannot wink at evil. He plays no favorites, but judges equitably. Although his mercy and patience are phenomenal, there is a limit, after which the fury of his wrath against sin and hardened sinners will be unleashed. Before judgment arrives, however, he invites us to take advantage of this space of time to repent from our sins and turn to him for forgiveness by believing the Good News that Jesus died for our sins.

The Gospel declares that Jesus bore the brunt of God’s wrath against sin on the cross on our behalf so that we who believe can escape unharmed.

Those of us who believe and respond to this good news and place our allegiance in the risen Christ Jesus, the Lord, will be saved. 

If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved. Romans 10:9–10 (NLT)

Those of us who refuse this invitation to be reconciled to God consign ourselves to judgment.

...But since you have rejected it and judged yourselves unworthy of eternal life... Acts 13:46 (NLT)

The Gospel is our hope to escape judgment and eternal condemnation.

I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life. John 5:24 (NLT)

The time of God’s judgment is near. Do not suppose that God’s mercy is unlimited. Turn to him today while we have the opportunity.

For God says, “At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.” Indeed, the “right time” is now. Today is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 (NLT)
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Chapter 98: Overview of Spirit-led Counseling

The Bible calls Jesus the Wonderful Counselor. (Isaiah 9:6) Since he created us and knows everything about us, he is the one person who knows how to set us free. When he launched his public ministry, he quoted the prophet Isaiah to summarize his mission.

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, 19 and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come.”  Luke 4:18–19 (NLT)

Sin imprisons every human being. Jesus said that everyone who sins is a slave to it. (John 8:34) Satan takes advantage of our captivity to sin to hold us in bondage.

The gospel is the proclamation that Jesus died and rose again to provide for our release.

When Jesus rose from the grave, it demonstrated his victory of sin, Satan, sickness, and death. When we place our faith and allegiance in our Lord, we are born again in the spirit. The Holy Spirit takes up residence in our lives as our spirits become one with him. (I Corinthians 6:17) We are recreated in the spirit, becoming a new person on the inside. However, we are made up of spirit, soul, and body. The recreation and justification of the spirit does not automatically transform us at the soul or body levels of our existence. God provides salvation for the soul in a process the Bible calls sanctification or transformation, which takes place as we yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit on a day-to-day basis. The body will not be completely saved until the resurrection.

Spirit-led counseling can help with the transformation process and assist in liberating the soul from bondage, which comes from a variety of sources related to sin.

  1. Inherited generational devastation,
  2. Lies that form strongholds in our minds and hearts,
  3. Unhealed traumatic pain, and
  4. Demonization

Each of these areas of bondage needs to be addressed as part of our liberation process.

Generational Devastation

Generational devastation is present in every family to some degree or another. Sin always has negative consequences, and some affect those we love. Children may suffer harm because of the sins of their parents. For example, if a father commits a crime for which he is imprisoned, the entire family suffers as a result. Fatherless households often produce insecure children who get into trouble. The family may not have adequate income to properly provide for the needs of their children, denying them the opportunity to get a good education. Without fatherly discipline and guidance, children face an increased probability of repeating their father’s sins and the generational cycle.

The judgments or consequences attached to sin are called curses in the Old Testament. Jesus took upon himself the curse attached to sin when he became a curse for us by being nailed to a cross.

But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.” 14 Through Christ Jesus, God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing he promised to Abraham, so that we who are believers might receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith.  Galatians 3:13–14 (NLT)

Spirit-led counseling relies on the Holy Spirit to help the counselor and counselee to identify any generational sins and devastation that has been (is being) passed down in the counselee’s family. Each area needs to be addressed in the following manner.

  1. Confess the family’s participation in the sin(s) associated with the devastation and ask forgiveness.
  2. Proclaim Christ’s victory over every aspect of the judgment associated with that area of devastation.
  3. Confess that the family is no longer under that curse or judgment, thanks to Christ.
  4. Ask God to establish the very opposite as a new family legacy. For instance, if the generational devastation is verbal abuse, ask the Lord to make the family known for its kind and affirming words to each other.

Christ healed us by his wounds, but, when we get sick, we need to appropriate and confess his victory over sickness by faith. In the same way, we are to appropriate our Lord’s victory over generational devastation when we identify it.

Lie-Based Strongholds

Jesus is the Truth. (John 14:6) His truth sets us free. (John 8:31)

Satan uses lies to block us from experiencing God’s blessings.

These lies can come from a variety of sources.

  1. What we are told by family, friends, and enemies, such as, “you will never amount to anything.”
  2. Our own conclusions, which are based on life experience. For example, if we are abandoned by our mother, we may conclude that we are unlovable or that everyone we love will abandon us.

When we are young, we do not have an adult capacity to critique what we are told. Children believe what is spoken over them, and even when we find out later that much of what we were told was a lie, we may still believe it at a heart level.

True freedom from a lie comes when we believe truth in the heart. The Holy Spirit is the only one who can minister to a person at this level.

When we hear another person tell us the truth, we often deflect it by using the shield of the lie we believe at the heart level. For example, a person may feel unloved because he was abused by someone who should have protected him. When we tell him that God loves him, he may say, “I know that, but why did he allow the abuse to happen.” The presence of a “but” often reveals a lie-based stronghold.

Spirit-led counseling asks the Holy Spirit to reveal the lie. Once that is identified, we ask the Spirit to speak to the person about this. This can happen in a variety of ways. The person can discern the voice of the Lord in his or her spirit. God can make a Bible verse “come alive.” The person might discern the voice of the Lord coming through another person during a sermon, counseling, or simple conversation. In a counseling session, time should be set aside for silently waiting on the Lord to allow him to speak to the heart of the counselee. When he or she hears the Lord speak, it releases them from the lie in a most incredible way.

Unhealed Traumatic Pain

Jesus is the healer of body and soul. Spirit-led counseling addresses unhealed traumatic soul pain caused by deep wounds. These wounds can fester into bitterness and lie-based strongholds.

Whereas God’s truth liberates us from lies, Jesus must heal our wounded hearts.

He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds.  Psalm 147:3 (NASB95)

When a deep unhealed soul wound is identified, such as what may occur if a person is betrayed or abandoned, it should be brought to the Lord in prayer for healing. Most likely he will speak to the heart of the wounded one from Scripture or some other way. If bitterness attached itself to the wound, that should be confessed and forsaken and the offender verbally released from any debt owed, spiritual or material.

One cannot move forward in healing and deliverance if any bitterness is present.

Demonization

Demons seek to gain a foothold in our lives where there is generational devastation, lie-based strongholds, or unhealed pain. If any demons are identified, they should be cast out after dealing with what gave them entrance.

Conclusion

When we counsel people, we should bring together our knowledge of the Bible, whatever wisdom we have gained through life experience, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and prayer. We should commit the counseling session to the Lord in prayer, reminding ourselves aloud that we are clothed with Christ’s righteousness and authority. We should bind any and every evil spirit that might try to hinder the process. We should ask the Lord to help us hear his voice only. Once that is done, we should proceed with the childlike expectation that he will guide and assist us, since he desires the counselee’s liberation far more than we do.

After the session, we should commit the counselee to the Lord to watch over and protect him or her from any counterattack of the enemy. Usually, it takes several sessions to achieve the desired level of freedom.

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Chapter 96: Dangers to the Local Church

There are both external and internal threats to the local church’s well-being. Some of these are obvious, but others are more hidden. Some threaten her ability to be effective and fruitful. Others, her continued viability. Scripture warns us about these dangers. In this lesson, we will look at some of them.

Wolves among Leaders

Internal threats are quite often the most lethal.

Betrayal from within is difficult to defend. Paul warned the elders of the church in Ephesus that “savage wolves” would try to hurt the church and pull people away. Sadly, he predicted that some of the leaders would act in this manner.

Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. 29 For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. 31 Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears.  Acts 20:28–31 (NKJV)

It is noteworthy that Paul told them that it would happen after he was no longer on the scene. This likely would happen because of the absence of his keen discernment and apostolic authority. They would have to depend on the Spirit and learn to hear him for themselves. It takes practice to get good at this, and the devil wastes no time going after those who are new at overseeing the church.

But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil.  Hebrews 5:14 (NASB95)

Jesus warned us that it is often quite a challenge to distinguish wolves from the genuine sheep, at least at first.

Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits…  Matthew 7:15–16a (NKJV)

Wolves are often gifted individuals, in this case, prophets, who seem to be a blessing, but their character betrays them eventually.

Even Satan can disguise himself as an angel of light. (2 Corinthians 11:14) We always eventually act according to what is inside us. Some people have a strong ability to discern what is hidden beneath the surface in a person and recognize wolves immediately, even before they can do harm. Churches need people like this, and local church leaders do well to listen to their warnings.

Wolves seldom attack the strong ones in the herd. Rather, they seek opportunities to corner and lead astray young, weak, or spiritually unhealthy people, or anyone with a rebellious attitude, not protected by being in a right relationship with church leaders.  Those with oversight responsibilities need to beware of what goes on inside and outside the meetings.

Wolves operate under cover and not out in the open.

Those who are wolves in leadership roles will try to draw away a following. They will insinuate that the pastor is not someone to support. This is usually done on the sly and very deviously. Otherwise, it would be quickly spotted.

Absalom is a clear biblical example of this sort of behavior. He worked among the disgruntled to put a wedge between them and King David. He presented himself as a better alternative leader. Eventually he led a full-scale rebellion. Absalom was able to draw away some significant leaders into his coup attempt.

Wolves should be identified and removed by church leadership and every effort be made to keep people from being drawn away into sin and rebellion by them.

False Prophets and Teachers

False prophets and false teachers are wolves in sheep’s clothing. They use their spiritual gifts and influence to lead people away from devotion to God and to truth.

Both prophets and teachers are meant to present God’s Word to people. One does it via a gift of the Spirit called prophecy. The other through explaining the meaning of the Bible. Both prophets and teachers claim to speak for God, which requires faithfulness to God and truth. Those who go astray in this area open themselves to a stricter judgment from God. (James 3:1)

In the Old Testament, a chief characteristic or “fruit” of a false prophet was their attempt to lead people away from the truth and into the worship of false gods.

Instead of speaking for God, they spoke from their own misguided imaginations or from some demonic source.

If your brother, your mother’s son, or your son or daughter, or the wife you cherish, or your friend who is as your own soul, entice you secretly, saying, ‘Let us go and serve other gods’ (whom neither you nor your fathers have known, 7 of the gods of the peoples who are around you, near you or far from you, from one end of the earth to the other end), 8 you shall not yield to him or listen to him; and your eye shall not pity him, nor shall you spare or conceal him. 9 “But you shall surely kill him; your hand shall be first against him to put him to death, and afterwards the hand of all the people.  Deuteronomy 13:6–9 (NASB95)
And the Lord said to me, “The prophets prophesy lies in My name. I have not sent them, commanded them, nor spoken to them; they prophesy to you a false vision, divination, a worthless thing, and the deceit of their heart.  Jeremiah 14:14 (NKJV)

It is not so much that prophets must be absolutely accurate in everything they say. Rather, the more important thing is the fruit that their prophecies produce.

In the New Testament, we are told that prophets prophesy “in part” (1 Corinthians 13:9) and their prophecies must be judged (1 Corinthians 14:29). This means that imperfection is expected and allowed, if it does not draw people away from the Lord, the truth of God’s Word, or the church.

It has been my observation that some put more stock in what prophets say than they do in the Bible. This is very dangerous and should be warned against. Nevertheless, we are told to highly esteem and desire the prophetic ministry, which is a powerful gift of the Spirit, either for good or for bad.

Even though Jesus warned us against false prophets (Matthew 24:11), the Bible also tells us to earnestly desire that spiritual gift. (1 Corinthians 14:39)

We should never try to quench prophecy to shield ourselves from its misuse. It is too valuable to the church.

False teachers are perhaps even more dangerous because they can cleverly weave the Word of God into error, thus capturing people’s minds in a lie that they think is biblical.

Peter warned us about their pernicious fruit.

But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves. 2 Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; 3 and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep. 4 For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to pits of darkness, reserved for judgment;  2 Peter 2:1–4 (NASB95)

The false teacher somewhat resembles Balaam, the false prophet, who operated from a basis of greed and immorality. Once again, we see that a false teacher, like a false prophet, is discerned by the fruit produced. All teachers are responsible to properly exegete God’s Word, to explain the meaning and application. Teachers do not get everything exactly right because God’s Word is very broad and deep. However, it is one thing to miss the meaning of a passage and quite another to lead people into sensuality and greed.

The Greek word translated “heresy” means to hold a divisive opinion that is contrary to Scripture. Truth can also be divisive, as proven by centuries of church history. A church can tolerate contrasting opinions about the meaning of difficult passages or concepts in the Bible, if unity is kept.

When teaching starts to divide the church, it is crucial for leaders to discern if truth is causing the division or error.

Paul wrote the heresies (divisions) must present themselves to make clear those who are following truth and those who are not.

But, of course, there must be divisions (literally: “heresies”) among you so that you who have God’s approval will be recognized!  1 Corinthians 11:19 (NLT)

Over the years, the church has been divided repeatedly in its pursuit of truth. Error about core doctrines should not be permitted, but diversity in less important areas is acceptable. Love is always needed.

Legalism

Legalism is the attempt to attain or maintain a right relationship with God based upon our performance.

It can be blatant or subtle. It is dangerous in that it nullifies the gospel message of grace and holds people in bondage to the Law, which can never save us.

So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law. 2 Listen! I, Paul, tell you this: If you are counting on circumcision to make you right with God, then Christ will be of no benefit to you. 3 I’ll say it again. If you are trying to find favor with God by being circumcised, you must obey every regulation in the whole law of Moses. 4 For if you are trying to make yourselves right with God by keeping the law, you have been cut off from Christ! You have fallen away from God’s grace. 5 But we who live by the Spirit eagerly wait to receive by faith the righteousness God has promised to us. 6 For when we place our faith in Christ Jesus, there is no benefit in being circumcised or being uncircumcised. What is important is faith expressing itself in love. 7 You were running the race so well. Who has held you back from following the truth? 8 It certainly isn’t God, for he is the one who called you to freedom. 9 This false teaching is like a little yeast that spreads through the whole batch of dough! 10 I am trusting the Lord to keep you from believing false teachings. God will judge that person, whoever he is, who has been confusing you.  Galatians 5:1–10 (NLT)

Legalism continually tries to invade our lives and local churches. It is like weeds in a garden: no matter how perfectly we think we have eliminated their presence, more always sprout. This is because our “flesh” is always trying to be good enough without God’s help.

Legalism is almost always “biblical,” in that it uses the Bible to support its claims. Those who do not understand properly the meaning of the Word can easily fall for a slick presentation of legalism, just as did the Galatians. In those days, the Judaizers were teaching the Gentile believers that they had to become Jews in observance to be proper followers of Christ. That error still exists and pops up repeatedly.

More subtle forms of legalism crop up when those who seem to be more earnest in the spiritual life insist that others “measure up” to whatever standard they think they have achieved. This can be related to time spent in Bible study, prayer, fasting, etc. All these things are good, but no measuring stick exists to be used as a template. We are complete in Christ, and our devotion should be motivated by the desire to know and serve him better, not to achieve or maintain a certain level of spirituality.

Critical Spirit

When we judge people in an unkind or unloving way, we side with the accuser of the brethren against mercy.

Those who possess a critical spirit forsake their own mercy and sow discord in the church.

Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. 2 For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged.  Matthew 7:1–2 (NLT)

A critical spirit is always looking for faults against leaders, other believers, their circumstances, and even God. Korah criticized Moses’ leadership and character and led others into rebellion. His judgment was swift and severe.

But these people scoff at things they do not understand. Like unthinking animals, they do whatever their instincts tell them, and so they bring about their own destruction. 11 What sorrow awaits them! For they follow in the footsteps of Cain, who killed his brother. Like Balaam, they deceive people for money. And like Korah, they perish in their rebellion.  Jude 10–11 (NLT)

The opposite of a critical spirit is worship and praise. Romans 8:28 is a good antidote for the poison of criticism.

Loss of First Love

This subtle danger is seldom apprehended if we become religious and stay busy with the outward trappings of Christianity without realizing that our hearts have drifted away from God.

Jesus warned that this is a very serious condition against which we should guard.

But I have this complaint against you. You don’t love me or each other as you did at first! 5 Look how far you have fallen! Turn back to me and do the works you did at first. If you don’t repent, I will come and remove your lampstand from its place among the churches.  Revelation 2:4–5 (NLT)

Repentance and going back to spending time in worship, prayer, and meditation on the Word of God is a good first step to getting free from this great peril.

Toleration of Sin

If we tolerate or make excuses for sin, it can cause sin to proliferate in the local church and reduce the fear of God. This is easy to fall into in a culture such as ours, when we are continually bombarded with temptation. We need the Holy Spirit to help us walk in the tension between grace vs. a proper intolerance of sin.

Nevertheless I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols. 21 And I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent. 22 Indeed I will cast her into a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds. 23 I will kill her children with death, and all the churches shall know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts. And I will give to each one of you according to your works.  Revelation 2:20–23 (NKJV)

 

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Chapter 95: More about Five-fold Ministry

Five-fold or ascension gift ministries are appointed by our Lord Jesus to equip the church to fulfill its calling and function.

And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ—16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.  Ephesians 4:11–16 (NKJV)

Jesus appoints men, and sometimes women, to carry some portion of his unlimited ministry. A person may function in more than one category, but usually one is dominant. In other words, an apostle may also teach and evangelize, but his or her main gifting will be apostolic.

through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles for His name’s sake, 6 among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ;  Romans 1:5–6 (NASB95)

for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher.  2 Timothy 1:11 (NASB95)

Five-fold or ascension gift ministers are not called to do all the work of ministry or be considered as “clergy.”  Rather, our job is to pass on to others what God has given to us. These ministers impart to the church what they have received. For example, apostles will not only mentor other apostles, but they will also equip and inspire the church to fulfill its apostolic calling to go and make disciples.

Five-fold ministers are first and foremost servants to the church, not some sort of ministerial hierarchy.

Anyone who uses the gift to carve out some sort of niche or position for himself is suspect of misusing the gift and falsely representing Christ.

For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”  Mark 10:45 (NLT)
Apostles

The first people called apostles were the twelve our Lord chose to be closest to him.

Jesus summoned His twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every kind of disease and every kind of sickness. 2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; and James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed Him. 5 These twelve Jesus sent out after instructing them: “Do not go in the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter any city of the Samaritans; 6 but rather go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 “And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’  Matthew 10:1–7 (NASB95)

The Greek word apostolos as used here means a messenger or delegate, one sent forth with orders.

Jesus gave them authority to heal and cast out evil spirits and to announce the coming of God’s kingdom. When Jesus chose this word to describe his sent ones, it was not a religious term.

During the time of the ancient Greek orator Demosthenes (384-322 BC), the word apostolos was a naval term that described an admiral, the fleet of ships that traveled with him, and the specialized crew who accompanied and assisted the admiral. The fleet would be sent out to sea on a mission to locate territories where civilization was nonexistent. Once an uncivilized region was identified, the admiral (called the apostolos) — along with his specialized crew and all their cargo and belongings — would disembark, settle down, and work as a team to establish a new community. Then they would begin the process of transforming a strange land into a replica of life as they believed it should be. Their purpose was total colonization of the uncivilized territory. Within this special fleet of ships were both the personnel and the cargo required to establish a new culture, a new life, and a new community. When that fleet pulled up to shore, it contained workers trained to build roads, construct buildings, and teach uncivilized natives how to read, write, and function in a new kind of social order. Thus, the admiral became the team leader for the construction of a new society…

The word “apostle” also described a person who had the authority to act much the same way an ambassador represents his government to another government. This classical and secular meaning of the word apostolos meant an envoy sent to do business on behalf of the one who sent him. Thus, a governmental apostle served as a personal representative, emissary, messenger, agent, diplomat, ambassador, or charge d’affaires. This person officially possessed the clout and influence to speak and act in the place of the one who sent him on his assignment. So when the ambassador — apostolos — spoke, his words were counted as the words of his sender. When the apostolos acted, his actions were interpreted as those of his sender. The connection between the sender and the person who was sent was almost inseparable.

This reveals the New Testament apostle’s position to speak and act on behalf of the Lord. This is a governmental position within the Body of Christ, and as such, an apostolic ministry gift should be received as one with great spiritual clout and the backing of Heaven. (The Historical Meaning of the Word “Apostle” by Rick Renner)

Jesus gave his apostles this kind of authority to represent him and his kingdom. He told them that they were his representatives, and their acceptance would be the same as accepting him and God in heaven.

He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.  Matthew 10:40 (NASB95)

Paul understood and embraced this concept of apostleship, too. He and his team ventured into unreached areas of the earth to preach the gospel and install kingdom of God communities called the church wherever he went, thus extending Christ’s rule.

Through Christ, God has given us the privilege and authority as apostles to tell Gentiles everywhere what God has done for them, so that they will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name.  Romans 1:5 (NLT)

One of the main functions of the apostle is to preach the gospel and then establish God’s oversight in the resultant churches in the form of ordaining elders to govern and oversee things.

After they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” 23 When they had appointed elders for them in every church, having prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed. Acts 14:21–23 (NASB95)

Apostles help establish churches in sound doctrine, too.

According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. 11 For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.  1 Corinthians 3:10–11 (NASB95)

Since they have authority derived from spiritually planting or “fathering” the churches launched through their preaching ministry, God uses them to bring correction when needed.

Apostles have what might be called “spheres” of authority based on their involvement and acceptance in local churches. Paul believed that he had such authority in the churches he planted.

I do not write these things to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children. 15 For if you were to have countless tutors in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. 16 Therefore I exhort you, be imitators of me.  1 Corinthians 4:14–16 (NASB95)

If to others I am not an apostle, at least I am to you; for you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.  1 Corinthians 9:2 (NASB95)

In summary, apostles are delegates sent by God to evangelize through preaching the gospel and to establish sound doctrine and governmental oversight in those churches raised up under their ministry. They have authority to bring correction as needed, provided the local elders receive the apostolic ministry and authority.

Paul indicated that true apostles can be identified by the supernatural ministry of the Holy Spirit in their lives, too.

The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with all perseverance, by signs and wonders and miracles.  2 Corinthians 12:12 (NASB95)

Today, we often use the term apostle to describe anyone who has oversight over a network of churches. This is more akin to the idea of a bishop or overseer. Those who seem to carry apostolic anointing and authority today usually have a heavy emphasis on world missions and travel extensively, strengthening and encouraging God’s people. This aspect of the apostolic ministry was fulfilled by Paul when he revisited the churches he had previously planted.

But Paul chose Silas and left, being committed by the brethren to the grace of the Lord. 41 And he was traveling through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.  Acts 15:40–41 (NASB95)

The New Testament records that there were other apostles besides the original twelve, Matthias, and Paul. James the Lord’s brother, who became the lead elder in Jerusalem, was also numbered among the apostles. (Galatians 1:19) In Romans, Paul lists other apostles. (Romans 16:7) There is no reason for us to believe that God no longer calls and appoints men to be apostles. The need is great for such people.

We must be called by our Lord Jesus to be an apostle.

Paul, an apostle (not sent from men nor through the agency of man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead),  Galatians 1:1 (NASB95)

We should never try to self-appoint ourselves but should wait for others to confirm this calling in our lives. Churches should be aware that some who claim to be apostles are not.

For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. 14 No wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is not surprising if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will be according to their deeds.  2 Corinthians 11:13–15 (NASB95)

It is our responsibility to identify these people and call them out to protect the church from their destructive influence.

Prophets

Prophets are uniquely called by God to be his spokespeople and deliver a rhema word of God at the appropriate time. God uses them in a foundational way to help establish churches in cooperation with apostolic ministry.

Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. 21 We are carefully joined together in him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord. 22 Through him you Gentiles are also being made part of this dwelling where God lives by his Spirit.  Ephesians 2:20–22 (NLT)

Apostles, prophets, and teachers are instrumental in establishing the church in God’s truth.

A prophet is most concerned with God’s will being done more than anything else.

A prophet is not someone who merely prophesies. Rather, it is someone called by God to operate on a higher level of authority and maturity to be God’s spokesperson. Like other five-fold ministries, the person who carries this unique calling and grace is Christ’s gift to his church. It often takes years to properly prepare and “season” prophets. A mature prophet is God-called and God-trained. The prophet belongs first to God, then to the church, and lastly to him or herself. In other words, like other ministries, prophets are servants.

And God has appointed in the church, first apostles, second prophets, third teachers...  1 Corinthians 12:28a (NASB95)

Prophets often call the church to a deeper level of consecration to the Lord, which begins with repentance.

They sometimes warn the church about what may be coming, as Agabus did about a coming famine in the New Testament. (Acts 11:27-28)

They can also help identify those God calls to ministry.

Now there were at Antioch, in the church that was there, prophets and teachers: Barnabas, and Simeon who was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 While they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for

John the Baptist was called the greatest of prophets by our Lord. (Luke 7:28) His greatest accomplishment or privilege was to identify our Lord as Israel’s Messiah and to describe his four-fold ministry as the Lamb of God (John 1:29), the Lord (v.26), the Baptizer in the Holy Spirit (Luke 3:16), and the coming judge (Luke 3:17).

They also can show the church what God is doing or going to do so that the people can properly understand and cooperate.

Surely the Lord God does nothing Unless He reveals His secret counsel To His servants the prophets.  Amos 3:7 (NASB95)

In the Old Testament, prophets were called seers. (1 Samuel 9:9) This was because “seeing” in the Spirit is integral to the prophetic ministry, whether we are called as a five-fold prophet or simply operate in the spiritual gift of prophecy. When God called Jeremiah, he gave him a “crash course” in how to properly interpret what the Spirit of God enabled him to see. (Jeremiah Chapter 1.)

Unless we can interpret what we see, it is relatively worthless, like wheat compared to the outer husk or chaff that contains it.

Prophets can see in the Spirit and hear God’s words spoken either audibly or in their hearts and know how to properly interpret them, as required.

As with apostles, prophets receive their commission directly from the Lord. (Jeremiah 1:5) If we receive such a calling, others will be able to recognize and confirm it. Also, as with apostles, there is no reason for us to assume that God no longer appoints people to this ministry. There is as much need today as ever.

Being a prophet is no light thing. Even though the normal New Testament function of a prophet is to build up the church, exhort her, and offer comfort or consolation (1 Corinthians 14:3), quite often prophets see things before others do and go “against the grain” by challenging people in areas in which they may be resistant.  More mature prophets may be used by God to deliver predictive, directive, or corrective messages.

Prophets must have a high degree of courage which comes from fearing God more than men. (Jeremiah 1:17-19)

Jesus warned us that we must be prepared for disapproval and even persecution at the hands of our hearers.

Woe to you when all men speak well of you, For so did their fathers to the false prophets.  Luke 6:26 (NKJV)

Some prophets are called to the nations, as was Jeremiah.

“See, I have appointed you this day over the nations and over the kingdoms, To pluck up and to break down, To destroy and to overthrow, To build and to plant.”  Jeremiah 1:10 (NASB95)

This is a much larger sphere of authority and responsibility. Most prophets will be used in the context of local churches.

One essential characteristic for New Testament prophets is that they love the church.

Prophets in general are held in high regard, since their ministry is somewhat sensational to the average person who is not so gifted. As such, they must be careful to speak words that will properly communicate God’s heart to the church at large and to the individuals to whom they minister. They will also bring words of correction and repentance, but there should never be any tinge of harshness or condemnation.

In the local church, prophets will develop others in the same ministry, giving away what they received from God. The church will grow in its prophetic capacity as a result.

Prophets should make room for others to prophecy by choosing to recede as appropriate.

Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others pass judgment. 30 But if a revelation is made to another who is seated, the first one must keep silent. 31 For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all may be exhorted;  1 Corinthians 14:29–31 (NASB95)

This passage addresses the difference between prophets and those who operate in the gift of prophecy. Prophets should make room for less gifted individuals to operate in the gift of prophecy, rather than hog the show, so to speak, through the strength of their gifting. When it comes to developing the overall prophetic ministry of the local church, prophets should probably adopt the attitude of John the Baptist, who said his ministry should decrease for our Lord’s to increase. (John 3:30) The average person will probably be somewhat intimidated by the strength of a prophet’s gift, unless the prophet makes it clear that his or her desire is for others to grow in their personal gifting.

Prophecy, and hence, prophets, are both one of the most desirable and powerful forces for good, while at the same time being fraught with danger.

Good results when prophecy is used properly. The danger arises when prophecy does not adhere to the Bible or if the prophet is not submitted to the government of the local church.

Mature prophets gladly submit to and work in harmony with the authority in the local church.

Prophets are meant to work in collaboration with the government of the church – apostles and elders. When the two operate in harmony and complementarity, things usually move forward at a wonderful pace. Problems arise when this is not the case, as I covered in the previous lesson.

Prophets are not a law unto themselves.

All prophecies should be judged since no one is perfect in our delivery of God’s message. Those who judge are other prophets (1 Corinthians 14:29), elders, and God’s people in general. Prophecies should be judged based on content, source, and effect.

The content must not contradict the Bible. The vocabulary of the Spirit is the Scripture. The source may be God, our own minds, or an evil spirit. It is rare that we will hear a demonically-inspired prophecy, such as happened to Paul in Phillipi. (Acts 16:16-18) The woman in question said correct things about Paul, but the apostle detected a wrong spirit of “python,” which operated in the oracle of Delphi. The effect a prophecy has upon the hearer is another test. It should direct the hearer toward Christ and minister peace. In the case of a corrective prophecy, the long-term effect will be peace; although, in the short run it may cause tension.

Lastly, it takes maturity to know what to do with what God shows us. Sometimes we are to pray about the revelation, waiting on God to show us what to do with it. At other times, we should share it openly. Sometimes, we may wish to have a more private setting, but always in the presence of trusted witnesses who can serve to judge the prophecy. We should beware of prophets who are outside of proper oversight. This can lead to manipulation.

Evangelists

The main motivation of the evangelist is to preach the gospel and see people born again into the kingdom of God.

They seem to have an intense understanding on the peril of those who are not born again. His or her heart may ache for the lost. They usually display great boldness when preaching the gospel.

Evangelists usually do not carry the burden to make disciples, plant churches, or provide pastoral care.

Evangelists need to work in cooperation with apostles, pastors, and teachers so that the people won to the Lord through their preaching can be properly discipled.

Evangelists have a responsibility not only to reach the lost but also to develop other evangelists and help the church in general grow in its evangelistic ministry.

Philip is a good example of the ministry of the evangelist. We see him preaching in Samaria (Acts 8:4-8) and to the eunuch (Acts 8:26 ff.) and promptly moving on to the next place. In the case of Samaria, God sent apostles on the heels of Philip’s ministry to lay hands on the new converts so that they received the baptism in the Spirit. (Acts 8:14-17)

Power gifts, such as healing, miracles, and casting out evil spirits usually accompany the ministry of the evangelist, corroborating the truthfulness of his message.

And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. 8 And there was great joy in that city.  Acts 8:6–8 (NKJV)

The evangelist may be gifted to preach to large crowds or to smaller groups or maybe one-on-one. The anointing on their lives causes people to respond to the message. If an evangelist is the lead elder in a local church, the gospel will be continually preached with a heavy emphasis on people responding each week to be saved. In such a church, others on the team will need to provide pastoral care and in-depth teaching.

Pastor

The pastor or shepherd is anointed by God to care for God’s people through feeding (teaching God’s Word), leading, and protecting them from danger (false doctrine, sin and false brethren).

Pastors, following the example of Jesus, lay down their lives for the sheep.

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.  John 10:11 (NKJV)

They are gentle toward the sheep, but fearless toward anything or anyone which threatens them.

When a true pastor is the lead elder in a local church, the people will be well loved and protected. They will be well taught, too, but probably with exhortation and practicality in view.

The Greek word poimen is only translated into the English word pastor once in Ephesians 4:11. The other 17 times it is used it is translated as shepherd. Over the years it has come to mean the one person who has overall responsibility for the welfare of a local church.

Pastors usually love and identify with the people. They often have a strong mercy orientation and may care more about people than issues.

The character of the pastor should match the qualifications of any elder. People in the congregation normally will grow to love and trust the pastor; so, it is vital that we do not betray that confidence and perhaps alienate them from the church and the Lord.

Today the ministry and responsibilities are often too great. He may be expected to preach the word, counsel hurting and troubled people, visit the sick, manage church business affairs and politics, and act as a type of CEO. The Bible ministry of shepherd does not require all these things. It is important that pastors assemble a team of ministers who can share these responsibilities. Five-fold ministers are not supposed to do all the ministry but to equip the church to do it.

Teacher

Teachers have no greater joy than searching out God’s Word and sharing what they discover with others.

Your words were found and I ate them, And Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart; For I have been called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts.  Jeremiah 15:16 (NASB95)

The teacher receives revelation from the Holy Spirit which gives him understanding and knowledge.

But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. 14 “He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you. 15 “All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose it to you.  John 16:13–15 (NASB95)

For example, knowledge is knowing that turning the key in the ignition of a car starts it. Understanding provides us with how and why this works.

Jesus was and is the greatest teacher. He has a way of taking complex subjects and making them simple, without eradicating depth of meaning. A teacher imparts life to his hearers and communicates truth in such a way that sets people free.

It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life.  John 6:63 (NASB95)

They said to one another, “Were not our hearts burning within us while He was speaking to us on the road, while He was explaining the Scriptures to us?”  Luke 24:32 (NASB95)

Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”  John 8:31–32 (NKJV)

Teachers find fulfillment is studying the Bible, receiving revelation, and sharing content. They may sometimes lack in practically applying the Word of God and usually team well with other five-fold ministers who can effectively apply the concepts taught. When a teacher is the lead elder in a local church, the people will be well taught but perhaps need extra pastoral care and missional fervency, which can be supplied by others on the team.

Click here to see all the articles in this series.
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Give clear instructions to those who respond to the gospel.

There are three ways people may respond to the gospel: apathy, hostility, or interest. In the category of interest, there are the possibilities of a passionate response or a measured one. Peter’s hearers ardently responded, which was the best possible outcome.

Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Brethren, what shall we do?" 38  Peter said to them, "Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.Acts 2:37-38 (NASB)

When the Holy Spirit opens someone’s heart, there will be a positive response to the gospel. We should be ready to tell them what to do next, if the opportunity presents itself.

Peter gave clear instructions to his respondents.

  • Repent – Repentance is the proper response to the message that Jesus is Lord. It means we acknowledge Jesus’ claim to be Lord and willingly submit our lives to him.
  • Be baptized in water – Water baptism is a public declaration of  faith – our trust in and allegiance to Christ. It is an outward expression of a heartfelt faith and allegiance.
  • Receive the baptism or gift of the Holy Spirit – This baptism is separate from the new birth and is performed by Christ himself. It equips and empowers disciples to be bold witnesses.

These three steps will launch the new convert into his or her discipleship journey.

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Jesus Is Lord Is the Core Declaration of the Gospel

Peter concluded his Acts 2 gospel presentation by declaring unequivocally that Jesus is Messiah and Lord.

"Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ—this Jesus whom you crucified." Acts 2:36 (NASB)

If we do not likewise proclaim Jesus’ lordship, we have shortchanged our listener.

Many of us have been so influenced by the consumerism that plagues the church and culture that we may present the good news as a sales pitch encouraging our hearers to take advantage of God’s magnificent offer of forgiveness and eternal life without forcefully mentioning the call to recognize and surrender to Christ the Lord.

There are amazing benefits attached to believing the gospel and declaring that Jesus is Lord, but Jesus the Savior is not the core message. Jesus the Lord is. Rather than selling a life assurance plan, gospel preachers must call our hearers to set right Adam’s betrayal of the Creator by placing ourselves back under his divine rule.

The gospel calls us to turn away from a self-directed life and choose to serve Jesus the Lord.

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 (NLT)
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Gospel in a Nutshell: Tell people that Jesus is our only hope at the Last Judgment

Peter’s Acts 2 presentation of the gospel continued with a reference to the Last Days.

‘In the last days,’ God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people...18  In those days I will pour out my Spirit ...20  The sun will become dark, and the moon will turn blood red before that great and glorious day of the LORD arrives.21  But everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.’Acts 2:17-21 (NLT)

The “last days” and the “day of the Lord” are recurring phrases that warn us to be reconciled to God while there is still time.

Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection ushered in the “last days.” The first disciples expected a quick culmination of all things, but this time period has extended over 2000 years, during which God has extended mercy to generations of people through the gospel.

The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and the very elements themselves will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment. 2 Peter 3:9–10 (NLT)

We are drawing closer to the actual end, the “day of the Lord,” when Jesus will return in power and glory to judge all people who ever lived. The Bible teaches us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. A proper fear of God brings people face to face with their ultimate destiny of standing before the glorious Judge who created them.

Jesus is our only hope of escaping destruction at the Last Judgment.

He already paid the price for the sins of those who put their trust and allegiance in him. Believers will stand before our glorious God included in Jesus’ perfect holiness. Those who put their trust in Jesus have nothing to fear, but those who reject the gospel should tremble. Encourage people to repent, believe, and receive all that Jesus died to give to us before it is too late!

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Gospel in a Nutshell: Be uninhibited in expressing the joy of the Lord.

Peter’s Pentecost proclamation of the gospel began with an explanation of what onlookers were interpreting as drunken behavior. They acted in a way that required an explanation.

For these men are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only the third hour of the day;Acts 2:15 (NASB)

The disciples were full of the Holy Spirit for the very first time. They were intoxicated with the joy that accompanies God’s presence. (Psalm 16:11) They were speaking aloud exuberantly in unknown languages or “tongues,” which is one of the evidences of the baptism in the Spirit. (Acts 10:44-46) In their case, speaking in tongues served as a sign to those present who did not yet believe in Jesus (1Cor.14:22). Their speaking aroused curiosity and begged an explanation.

Principle: We should unafraid to be authentic and let our “light shine.”

Christians are often so careful not to offend people that we may repress our natural feelings and refrain from sharing the gospel with those on their way to hell. Our culture has told us to keep our faith to ourselves. Our religious traditions, in many cases, have taught us that emotional restraint is godly. The gospel is the best news ever told or heard. Knowing God and experiencing his presence is the greatest “high” there is. We should be more excited about experiencing God and sharing the gospel than anything else. If we share the good news as information that does not impact us emotionally, what kind of hidden message does that send? If we are afraid to allow the Holy Spirit to manifest his joy the gifts through us, we may shut off the river of God’s power and presence. We may also miss a grand opportunity to explain why we are so happy and moved by God’s Spirit.

Let’s allow ourselves to be uninhibited in expressing the joy the Lord. Let’s be unafraid to be ourselves spiritually and emotionally. We may open the door to share the gospel, just as did those first disciples.

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Gospel in a Nutshell: Use the activity of the Holy Spirit as a springboard.

Peter’s launched his presentation of the gospel on the first Pentecost by giving a biblical explanation for what God was doing right in front of their eyes.

but this is what was spoken of through the prophet Joel: 17  'AND IT SHALL BE IN THE LAST DAYS,' God says, 'THAT I WILL POUR FORTH OF MY SPIRIT ON ALL MANKIND; AND...Acts 2:16-17 (NASB)

Gymnasts performing the vault use a springboard to launch them into the air. We might be able to launch into a conversation about God by referring to something he has been doing recently of which we are aware. Many people do not know that God still acts in the lives of his people. If we can give a recent example, we might gain our listener’s attention and prick their interest to learn more.

It is one thing to read about miracles in the Bible and quite another to hear a first-hand account of something done by the Holy Spirit through one of us!

If we have the courage to pray for specific needs, we might generate a perfect example of this. Perhaps we do not see the Holy Spirit do more because we fail to ask! We should never be embarrassed or reticent to boldly ask God to do something specific to help our listeners, such as physical healing. He is more than willing to demonstrate that he loves people and that the gospel and Jesus are real. If we want to experience New Testament Christianity, we need to have the same kind of boldness and faith as the apostles.

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Gospel in a Nutshell: Listen Up, Everyone!

The first gospel proclamation after Christ’s ascension into heaven took place on Pentecost in Jerusalem. Peter and the other disciples came out of hiding after being filled with the Spirit and boldness. The following verse contains the first words of Peter’s address to the throngs in Jerusalem for the feast.

But Peter stood up with the eleven, raised his voice, and addressed them: “You men of Judea and all you who live in Jerusalem, know this and listen carefully to what I say. Acts 2:14 (NET1)

Principle: Listen up, everyone!

When we share the gospel, be aware that it is a divinely authorized proclamation, similar to a trumpet blast. Peter raised his voice to be heard. It is the announcement that Christ, the crucified One, has risen from the dead and is Lord of everything! He ascended into heaven, where he waits for the appointed time when he will return to judge the living and the dead. To him all will be held accountable before God for how they respond to this message.

The gospel announcement deserves to be heard. It deserves our best effort to properly present it and our listeners’ most careful attention.

We should be aware that we are providing people with the most important and consequential information that they will ever receive. It is life to those who believe and receive it, but a sentence of death to those who reject it. Let us reflect the seriousness of the message with our earnest presentation.

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