%402x.svg){kind=icon}
AS MINISTERS, WE SPEND TIME in the Word of God for our own spiritual development and nourishment.1 However, we must also study generally to provide ourselves with a comprehensive knowledge of the Word of God. While we read the Bible to get blessed, we must also read the Bible to get background; while we search its pages for spiritual food, we must also search its pages for spiritual foundations.
Occasions will arise when we will need to preach without adequate time for in-depth preparation. For success in those times, we must be able to draw from a reserve of Bible knowledge that is based on a disciplined and thoughtful study of Scripture. Notice Moses’ admonition in Psalm 90:12, “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” We need to organize our lives so that we make time for the regular study of God’s Word!
Paul admonished Timothy, “Study [give diligence] to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).2 If we are to correctly interpret and expound God’s Word to those who listen to our messages, we must be diligent in ongoing Bible study and preparation. In 2 Timothy 3:17, Paul reiterated that application to understanding the Word of God is vital, “that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” Whatever other qualifications or attributes we may possess, the preeminent one must be that we are conscientious students of Scripture.
The Book of Isaiah tells us that in order to understand doctrine, we must study the Scriptures line upon line and precept upon precept.3 In some fields of study, we can read a book on the topic once or twice, and gather what we need to know from it. We can put that book on the shelf and move on to something else. However, that is never true of the Bible. We can read it over and over again, and still absorb truths and insights that we have never seen before.
As ministers, our desire should be to equip our hearers to withstand those who reject and compromise the Word of God. To do that effectively, we must be well-versed in the structure, content, and central message of God’s Word. In order to successfully teach them “to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:20) we must be knowledgeable “all things.” We must show ourselves “apt to teach” (1 Timothy 3:2) by mastering the subject ourselves. In order to lead those who hear us to an “acknowledging of the truth” (2 Timothy 2:25) we must have that truth engraved deeply in our own minds and hearts. Jesus said to the Sadducees in Matthew 22:29 “Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.” We want to be certain that we do not fall under the same condemnation!
It will be profitable to make a thorough study of the great themes of the Bible. These give us a background that is invaluable when we are preaching on any text or subject. Some important themes include: the Holy Trinity, with a complete study of each of all three Members; God’s plan of salvation; the atoning Blood; the Old Testament types of Christ; the Law and the Gospel; the Kingdom of God; Messianic promises and prophecies; end time events and God’s plan for the future; and the activities and methods of the Apostles. To thoroughly study all these themes will take effort and time, but will prove to be beneficial to our preaching.
It will also be helpful to invest time in a textual study of each of the books of the Bible, beginning with the Gospels and the epistles. This type of study should begin with a consideration of where the book fits historically, the author and the circumstances in which the book was written, to whom the book was written and why, and the events that were taking place in society at that time.
As ministers, we should be familiar with these basic principles of Bible interpretation.
Know what the words mean. Truth is embodied in words, so if we do not understand the words, the truth may be obscured. Many good Bible dictionaries are available, both in print and online.
Be alert to figures of speech. While the Bible communicates literal and historical facts, it does at times use parables, allegories, symbols, poetry, metaphors, and other figures of speech and literary techniques to reveal God’s truth. If a literal interpretation of a passage appears to be in conflict with a known fact or another Scripture, a figure of speech is likely being employed.
Study the immediate context grammatically. Look at the words and how they relate to each other (syntax, singular vs. plural, etc.). It is important that we pay attention to the rules of language and interpret Scripture accordingly.
Explore cultural customs for added insight. Biblical text is best understood when we are familiar with the customs, culture, and historical context of the passage.
Interpret Scripture by Scripture. Individual verses or portions of Scripture must always be in harmony with the Word of God as a whole. We cannot base our conclusions on personal assumptions and preconceived notions, for “no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation” (2 Peter 1:20).
During the time of the Apostles, the Bereans were commended because they searched the Scriptures “daily” to determine if what they had heard from Paul and Silas was true. This careful examination proved to themselves that the message was, in fact, of God.4 We, like the Bereans, must diligently and systematically search the Scriptures in order to discern true doctrine from false.
One author who wrote on the subject of the minister’s need for a thorough mastery of the Bible put it this way, “Every true preacher must be an earnest Bible student. He must spare no pains and neglect no method to master and grasp the Book. He must know what it is; he must know what it is not. He must learn what it contains; he must learn what it necessarily does not contain.”5
The call of God to the ministry of the Word is a gift; we did not ask for it. Paul said to Timothy “Stir up the gift of God, which is in thee” (2 Timothy 1:6). The gift that has been given us should be a flame of fire, a burning heat, a driving energy. As ministers, our job is to stir up this gift and develop it, and one way we do this is to discipline ourselves to deep and thorough study of God’s Word.
IF WE ARE AMONG THOSE responsible for the training of younger ministers, we must do our best to encourage them to improve themselves and their knowledge of the Word by coaching them patiently. If they stumble in their understanding of Scripture, their delivery could use polishing, or poor judgment is shown in verbiage or choice of illustration, the pastor may feel it appropriate to make constructive suggestions. Any needed correction should be offered in a gentle and patient manner. Remember, God can use people in His harvest field even while they are growing and learning. We cannot expect a twenty-five-year-old minister to have the wisdom of a seventy-five-year-old Gospel veteran! The school of experience will develop any young worker who is eager to learn and is dedicated to the Gospel.
AS NOTED IN THE SECTION of this manual titled The Inspiration and Infallibility of Scripture, we rely upon the King James Version of the Bible for use in our services and as our primary source for study. For those whose native language is not English, we recommend that you attempt to find a version in your own language that is a word-for-word translation of the original languages, and one that was translated by individuals with an experiential knowledge of salvation.
WE CANNOT ASSUME that all commentaries, study helps, and even Bible dictionaries are doctrinally sound. We should be alert to the fact that most of these resources are based upon a theological background and persuasion that is different from ours. At times, indicators of these doctrinal differences may be very subtle in nature. It is preferable to obtain study helps that offer a holiness perspective whenever possible.
1 See the section titled Personal Growth and Development for more on this aspect of ministerial study.
2 The word translated study in this passage does not refer specifically to scholarly research of the Bible, important as that is in the equipping of a minister. It refers more broadly to an attitude of earnest endeavor in all tasks related to success in the ministry that the workman might meet with God’s approval.
3 Isaiah 28:9-10
4 See Acts 17:11.
5 Horton, cited on page 115 by R. W. Dale, Nine Lectures on Preaching (London: Hodder and Stoughton, 1890)
ALL OF US have a desire to effectively serve God; this is the motive in the heart of every true minister of the Gospel. To give our lives as living sacrifices for Him is our highest goal. In the ministry, we have found a place and opportunity to serve the Lord, not on a basis of a day’s work, but on the basis of life-service.
In order to meet the responsibilities of our role, and the many (and often unexpected) demands upon our daily schedules, it will be important that we effectively manage our time. Paul the Apostle admonished, “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is” (Ephesians 5:15-17). The word redeeming in this passage does not imply paying a particular price, but rather, “making the most of.” Our time is precious and God-given, so we need to find a way to use it wisely.
Some key principles of effective time management will help us accomplish that goal.
Prioritize. In Ecclesiastes 3:1, Solomon pointed out, “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Determine what is truly significant, and deal with what is important. While it is good to begin each day by evaluating what must be accomplished in the next twenty-four-hour period, you also may want to block in time every month to review progress on long-term goals, projects, and commitments.
Organize wisely. Make sure you have an effective system in place to manage mail, calendar, accounts, sermon material, and congregational data. Keep your files in order. Reducing clutter reduces stress!
Plan realistically. Break large goals into small segments, and factor in the entire work process. Do not plan to accomplish an unreasonable amount of work in a day or a week. Enthusiasm and optimism are wonderful qualities, but they do not add hours to your day!
Schedule carefully. Keep your calendar or date book close by. Avoid scheduling too tightly; you want to allow a margin in your schedule for unexpected challenges and opportunities, as God allows them to come your way. Be on time—it is a matter of common courtesy to respect other people’s schedules.
Delegate when possible. It is unwise for those in the ministry to try to personally handle every detail. Be realistic about what is best for you to handle, and engage other trusted individuals in the church to help carry the load. Learn when to say no and when to say yes. That is what Moses and the disciples did!1
Write it down. Have a method of keeping notes that works for you. Reduce “mental clutter” by jotting down projects, thoughts, things that need to be done, and phone calls to make as they occur to you. Putting them on paper or noting them electronically helps clear your mind. At the end of the day or week, mark off what has been accomplished and enter the remaining items on a new list.
Be aware of time robbers. Make sure your electronic “helpers” do not take more time than they are worth. Don’t let online activities absorb inappropriate chunks of your schedule. We only have twenty-four hours in a day, so make the most of them by eliminating wasted time or by giving up unnecessary activities.
Work efficiently. Try to minimize distractions. Avoid becoming a slave to your cell phone and email by setting aside intervals in your schedule to deal with them. Explore telecommuting. Make sure that the meetings you do commit to are really necessary and cannot be handled in another way, and then prepare for those meetings thoughtfully and carefully. Think in terms of productivity, not time spent.
Make time for renewal. We must regularly block in time for personal growth, family, and relaxation, just as we do other appointments. And finally, it is vital that we take steps to nourish and care for our own souls! We must never neglect Bible study and prayer in order to make room for other activities. Jesus himself made time to withdraw from the people and commune with His Father in Heaven.2 We must do the same if we are to obtain and maintain the anointing of God upon our lives and ministry.
The time demands of ministry are unique, and the best management will not bring any of us perfect control of our time. The unexpected happens, especially when our lives are built around service to others. When emergencies arise, people need their pastor or minister. However, it is not God’s purpose or intention for any of us to be overwhelmed by unexpected demands or by our regular duties. We must remember that He is always in control, and there is always enough time to do God’s will.
As stewards of the grace of God, let us purpose to make the best use of time while we have time to use.
IT HAS BEEN SAID that the minister’s motto is “I serve.” Jesus, who thought it not robbery to be equal with God, made Himself of no reputation and took upon Himself the form of a servant (see Philippians 2:5-7). We have been instructed to “follow his steps” (1 Peter 2:21), so as ministers we must be willing to do whatever our hands find to do, no matter how humble the task or how unnoticed it may be by others.
However, as good stewards, we must also guard our time. It is possible for us to become so engaged in activities only remotely beneficial to the work of the Lord that our strength, energy, and inspiration are depleted. We do not want to become a doer of tasks to the extent that we lose our focus or diminish our effectiveness as a teacher of the incomparable Word of God. Where there is need, of course, work must be done, no matter how menial it is, but our schedules and responsibilities cannot be dictated by others.
1 See Exodus 18:13-26 and Acts 6:1-6.
2 For example, see Mark 1:35.
THE CALL TO and practice of Christian ministry is a gift, not a right or privilege. God has given to us the “ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:18), and with our call comes tremendous responsibility. A call to the ministry is a call to preparation. The changing patterns of our culture require constant updating of our personal knowledge, methods, and skills—and that necessitates an ongoing commitment to growth and development.
It must ever be in our minds that as “ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God” (1 Corinthians 4:1), we will give an account of our stewardship. God holds a minister to the highest of religious, moral, and personal standards. Though our commitment to excellence flows out of love for Him, we must always be aware of the inescapable responsibility that comes with the charge we have been given.
Those who serve in the military make use of the most efficient weaponry and equipment available to them. Civil ambassadors apply themselves to understanding the country and culture in which they work. We are not military personnel or civil ambassadors—but we are soldiers of the Cross and ambassadors for Christ! Our efforts for the Kingdom of God are of eternal importance. We must equip ourselves with every possible qualification and diligently acquire knowledge of the harvest field, in order to serve most effectively at the post to which we have been assigned.
Paul admonished the young minister, Timothy, “Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry” (2 Timothy 4:5). Similar counsel was sent to Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it” (Colossians 4:17). To “make full proof” or “fulfill” one’s ministry is to be faithful and committed to all of its requirements— including personal and educational growth. We must not be negligent in this matter.1
None of us enter the ministry proficient in every skill needed, so we should desire to improve in areas where we lack. The wise King Solomon pointed out, “If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength” (Ecclesiastes 10:10). Let’s make sure our ax is sharp! As we discipline ourselves to improve our competency in the awesome task that is ours, God will bless our efforts.
While the Bible is our primary textbook, we should expand our understanding of other key subjects. It will be beneficial to study good spiritual literature—material that is dependable and in conformity with Scripture. This is necessary to broaden our thoughts and to help us “rightly divide” the Word. Sermons by fundamental preachers of past days, who knew the power of God and who were instrumental in bringing many to Christ, will offer insight on how they presented a given text. Biographies of missionaries and great Christians through the ages will inspire and motivate us, as well as provide us with a background in the development of religious thought and holiness traditions throughout the eras since the time of Christ.
We should also read about topics outside of the religious realm, for a minister must have an awareness of the contemporary world. One speaker on the topic of ministerial knowledge put it this way, “A minister ought to be the best informed man on the face of the earth. He ought to see everything, inquire about everything, and be interested in everything.”2
Every serious minister will desire to build an adequate library, beginning with basic work tools—standard reference volumes such as dictionaries, books on word studies, concordances, commentaries, etc.
A mastery of language is of tremendous value to those in the ministry, so it will pay dividends if we learn to communicate with clarity and authority.3 Our preaching will improve as we build a good vocabulary, master the principles of effective oral presentation, and strive to eliminate grammatical errors.4 Skill in expressing ourselves in writing will also prove to be of great benefit. If circumstances permit, it may be beneficial to attend seminars or enroll in continuing education classes in speech, writing, and/or grammar at a local college or university.
Administrative ability is also a requirement for ministers, especially for those who are called to serve as pastors. Sound financial skills are a must. We need to be able to assess, plan, evaluate, and facilitate efforts in the various departments and outreaches of our local congregation.5
A working familiarity with the internet and current technology is beneficial, and should be obtained if at all possible. Instant access to the latest updates from headquarters is available through the Ministers page on our website. While not every device, application, or software option will improve our productivity and efficiency, ministerial tasks related to obtaining and storing information, communication, record keeping, and organization can be greatly expedited through electronic means.
While a breadth of knowledge is based to some degree on experience which can only be acquired over time, we should always keep a “learner” mentality. If we continually and prayerfully seek insight into the complexities of human nature, striving to be keen, observant students of how people live, work, and struggle, we will be better able to minister to their concerns.
If we are to fulfill the Scriptural admonition to “be … an example of the believers” (1 Timothy 4:12), we should exemplify a willingness to improve ourselves. Honest evaluation of our own abilities will show each one of us areas where we could grow. As we strive for proficiency in these areas, we can be assured that God will honor each effort we make for the furtherance of His Kingdom.
1 See 2 Chronicles 29:11.
2 Beecher, cited by Paul Scherer, For We Have This Treasure (New York: Harper & Brothers, Publishers, 1944) p 171.
3 One excellent resource on this topic is the material covered in The Elements of Public Speaking presentations, available on the Ministers page of our website.
4 For a more extensive coverage of effective pulpit ministry, see the topics Sermon Preparation and Sermon Delivery in this manual.
5 See the topics covered in the Administrative Work of a Pastor section for more specific information on this aspect of responsibility.
THE MOST EFFECTIVE PREACHING is Spirit-filled preaching, and such messages must come from a Spirit-filled messenger. A successful ministry is much more than an ability to present the doctrines, teachings, and practices of the church correctly. Our statements may be accurate, logically presented, and theologically sound, but if we do not have the unction from God upon our words, our efforts will fall short, to the detriment of those who hear us. Our sermons must be born of the Holy Spirit and anointed by the Holy Spirit in order to move hearts toward God!1
One way we receive this divine unction is through personal communion with God. Therefore, our time spent in prayer and meditation upon the Scriptures is all-important. Spiritual growth and vitality requires intentionality. Casual reading of the Word and incidental prayers are inadequate, and cannot be depended upon to provide what we need.
One lesson we must learn is that while service to others is part of our God-given responsibility, it is no substitute for focused prayer and time spent in God’s Word. Our schedules may be full, but we must refill our vessels at the divine Fount, and this takes place through personal Bible study, meditation, and earnest prayer. Our service to God must be an outflowing of our being with God. He is more interested in what we are becoming than in what we are doing for Him.
Personal Bible study: The Bible presents many reasons why time spent in Bible study is vitally important for the Christian. Among them are:
While these benefits accrue to all who spend time in the study of God’s Word, they are especially vital for us as ministers because we have a God-given responsibility to “feed the flock of God” (1 Peter 5:2). We must avail ourselves of the spiritual nourishment and instruction in His Word in order to have something to give the flock.
Meditation: Closely tied to Bible study is the practice of Biblical meditation, which is the act of pondering or thinking deeply on Scripture.2 In Joshua 1:8, God promised Joshua success as part of the fruit of his meditation on the Word, telling him that he was to “meditate therein day and night.” The Psalmist observed that the man who delights in the law of the Lord and meditates in it “day and night” (Psalm 1:1-2) would be blessed.
Time and patience are important elements to effective meditation and examination of the Word. One Christian writer observed, “Meditation upon God’s Word is fast becoming a lost art among many Christian people. This holy exercise of pondering the Word . . . to get its sweetness and nutritive virtue into the heart and life, takes time, which ill fits into the speed of our modern age. Today most Christians’ devotions are too hurried, their lives too rushed.”3
Prayer: The necessity of personal times of prayer was established by Christ himself; He often retreated to places of solitude to pray.4 As followers of Jesus, we are to do no less. As ministers, we should pray alone. We should pray with other ministers. We should pray with the workers and saints in public prayer meetings whenever possible, and for as long as possible. We should pray as we work, as we travel, as we counsel—as we do all the work of the ministry. In other words, we should “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).5
If the people under our preaching are to mature as Christians, it can only be accomplished as we lead the way. The holiest individuals of Christian history were those who made regular study of God’s Word and prayer an absolute priority. It was not that study and prayer were a method used to attain holiness; rather, a close walk with God was the result of those times of communion. That should be our goal also.
There is no scarcity of the springs of living water, if we are willing to dig for them. It is often hard work to do this—it will require discipline to persevere in meditation and prayer. Sermons that compel people to respond to God will cost the preacher a high price long before he or she stands before the people!
1 See 1 Corinthians 2:11-13.
2 It is important to differentiate between Biblical meditation and secular meditational practices. For example, a form of meditation in which the mind is emptied is dangerous and actually opens up an individual’s mind for Satanic attack.
3 Merrill F. Unger, Pathways to Power, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, 1953, p. 41.
4 See Mark 1:35; 6:46; Luke 5:16; 6:12; 22:41-42.
5 See also Luke 18:1.
MINISTERS OF THE GOSPEL will benefit from a broad understanding of Christian history. The Bible instructs us not to forget the past, but to teach it to our sons and our sons’ sons (see Deuteronomy 4:9).1 A study of the key events, historical settings, and people during Old Testament times as well as from the time of the Early Church through the present will help us to better understand God’s plan for the ages.
The history of the Christian church is an ongoing testimony to the faithfulness of God toward humanity. In the years that have elapsed since the Apostles’ passing, God has been faithful to safeguard His sheep, constantly challenging and refining the Church to rise to the high calling of becoming a “pillar and ground of the truth” for each generation (1 Timothy 3:15). To ignore church history is to be deprived of the lessons to be learned, both positive and negative, from a study of God’s working both in and through the church through the ages.
Since we are representatives of the Apostolic Faith Church, we particularly want to familiarize ourselves with the history and development of this work. Studying our organization’s journey from a ramshackle wooden building on Azusa Street in Los Angeles to an international ministry that spans six continents will inspire us and give us the knowledge we need to explain our origins to those who are interested. The account of how God led the band of zealous believers who gathered with Florence Crawford in a mission hall in the city of Portland, Oregon, and the faithful saints of God who followed them, to shape a God-given message into a worldwide ministry can create hunger in hearts today!2
The Bible makes clear that we must “be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear” (1 Peter 3:15), so it is also imperative for us to have a thorough understanding of Bible doctrines. We want to be able to clearly state that we trace our doctrinal beliefs—simple Bible truths expounded through the centuries by leading Christians—from the days of the Apostles, when the Early Church was founded. The teachings emphasized then and now are rooted in the second chapter of the Book of Acts. God still calls and saves penitent sinners, dramatically transforming their lives. New converts are still encouraged to consecrate their hearts to God in order to receive the instantaneous experience of entire sanctification and begin a walk of holiness. The Holy Ghost is still freely given to those who have been saved and subsequently sanctified, empowering them to witness with evangelistic zeal.
One unique aspect of our organization is the unity that we enjoy between those in our churches around the world, in spite of differences in race, culture, and background. This unity is tied, in a great measure, to our organization’s consistent doctrine and policy. In 1 Timothy 4:16, the Apostle Paul cautioned Timothy, “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” In another place, he admonished, “Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle” (2 Thessalonians 2:15). As ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we must have these Bible doctrines deeply engraved in our hearts and minds, that we may faithfully expound them to those who hear us.
Those of us in the Apostolic Faith organization have a wonderful treasure that has been preserved throughout our history. May we “earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3) and determine to pass on that same faith to those who follow us.
1 See also Job 8:8-10 and Psalm 78:2-8.
2 An overview of this organization’s history can be found in our history book, The Apostolic Faith: History, Doctrine, and Purpose, copyright 2005, The Apostolic Faith Mission of Portland, Oregon. The first thirteen Apostolic Faith papers, printed on Azusa Street in Los Angeles after the Latter Rain outpouring of the Holy Spirit in 1906, are also available on our website.
ONE OF THE PRIMARY PURPOSES of the Apostolic Faith organization since our inception has been to lead men and women to the place of repentance and forgiveness for sin, and to an understanding of the Latter Rain Gospel. This necessitates being alert to opportunities to expand our outreach into new fields.
Typically, establishing a church in a new area begins with interest expressed in our organization. The initial contact may have occurred when an individual or group received Gospel literature printed by the Apostolic Faith, visited our church website, or had a personal contact with someone connected to this work. Often, there is a period of correspondence with headquarters, in which the Biblical doctrines and practices upheld by this organization are explained in greater detail. Gradually, this correspondence provides insight about the group’s understanding of our doctrinal position and its willingness to follow the practices and guidelines of the Apostolic Faith work. In time, this may lead to a visit from a representative of headquarters, at which time the possibility of the group becoming a part of the organization may be explored as the Spirit leads.
In a case where a group of associated groups or church congregations has expressed interest in becoming a part of the Apostolic Faith, it may take a number of visits from a headquarters representative before we can be assured that they are all one with us in doctrine and are willing to adopt our methods of operation. This Minister’s Manual may serve as a basis for explaining in detail what we stand for and how we operate. Leaders of the congregations can also be encouraged to view the services posted on our organization’s website as a means of gaining understanding about how we conduct our services.
Meetings in Homes and Temporary Facilities
Many Apostolic Faith branch churches started from gatherings of believers in private homes. We encourage this method, especially in locations where there are only a few believers. Holding Bible studies, prayer meetings, or even simple church services in a home, and inviting neighbors, friends, and relatives to attend, is in accord with the pattern established in Scripture. Members of the Early Church taught the Gospel in private homes as well as in larger assemblies.<sup>1<sup> In some towns, private homes served as meeting places for smaller churches,<sup>2<sup> while at other times, groups simply gathered in a home. According to Acts 10, it was in one such meeting in the home of the Roman centurion Cornelius that God revealed to Peter that the Gospel message was for all who would believe in Jesus Christ.
Obviously, any home meetings held under the auspices of the Apostolic Faith organization must uphold the doctrines and practices of this organization, and operate under the supervision of the nearest District Superintendent.
Church services in homes usually are quite simple. Sometimes they are structured along the lines of a Sunday school class or informal Bible study. If there are enough people present, the program may consist of singing, perhaps a testimony or two, Bible reading, a brief message, and a time of prayer. In some cases, small groups have found that watching services on the corporate website at www.apostolicfaith.org/video-archive can be a real blessing and uplift. Workers from an Apostolic Faith branch church can also go, whenever that is possible, to support the efforts of those holding meetings in areas where there is no established church as yet.
If space constraints permit, those who attend home meetings should be encouraged to invite others who might be interested in gathering with the group of believers. If the numbers grow and a solid foundation of workers develops, it may be possible in time to secure a larger facility where Gospel services could be held.
Most new churches meet at least for a time in rented facilities such as schools, hotel conference rooms, or community centers. Though the meeting location is temporary, those in charge should make every effort to create a warm and inviting environment. The facility should be clean, provide comfortable seating and adequate parking, and be equipped with a suitable sound system. Signage directing visitors to the meeting area, along with flowers and a display of Gospel literature, can help to create a friendly atmosphere. The goal should be to make visitors feel welcome and encourage them to come again.
Evangelistic programs/outreaches
Conducting evangelistic campaigns is another form of outreach into a new field that has brought fruitful results in the Apostolic Faith organization. Typically, we hold campaigns of this nature to ascertain whether there is interest or potential for developing a work in a particular location. In years past, churches of a neighborhood or community nature occasionally have opened their doors to us. However, we have found that it is often best to conduct our campaigns in rented conference rooms or other community facilities, in order to avoid restrictions on our preaching or manner of worship.
A well-organized evangelistic campaign will have at least five major components:
Expansion into new fields takes far more than simply seeing opportunities. We must be certain that our timing and the steps we take toward evangelizing and/or establishing a work in a new location do not get ahead of God. Wherever God guides, He provides. Ultimately, the work will grow and expand according to local response in any given area, and God’s sovereign will. If He wants us to move forward, He will open the doors, and we must always align ourselves with His purpose and timing. When we do, a small seed sown in good soil and watered with prayer can result in a bountiful spiritual harvest for God’s kingdom.
IT IS IMPORTANT for us to remember that while growth is the natural state of a healthy organism, there are different kinds of growth, some of which have nothing to do with numbers. A church can be alive and growing spiritually even though the number of people attending remains constant. If those in the church are growing “in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), and following His will for their lives, both individually and corporately, that church is experiencing true growth. Conversely, a church can see its numbers increase, and still be spiritually lifeless. While expansion is important and we should always be alert for outreach opportunities, numerical increase in our numbers is not our primary goal.
WE HAVE FOUND that entire sanctification and the sanctity of marriage are two doctrinal teachings that we must explore especially carefully and thoroughly with those who express an interest in becoming a part of the Apostolic Faith work. It is necessary to be certain that we are unified in understanding, as some people who generally agree with our teachings have a slightly or totally different view of these two doctrines.
1 See Acts 5:42 and 20:20.
2 See Romans 16:5, 1 Corinthians 16:19, and Philemon 1:2.
IT IS BIBLICAL for the church to set apart individuals in the ministry for special tasks of leadership.1 In the Apostolic Faith organization this is done through ordination and/or installation. Ordination Services and Installation Services are handled in a similar manner.
Ordination Services
Ordination is the public ceremony by which leaders of the church authorize a minister to serve as a pastor or other designated role in the Apostolic Faith work.2 While ordination does vest in that individual the legal authority to perform certain civil duties and conduct business as a representative of the organization, we view the event primarily as a solemn, spiritual charge and commissioning as much as a legal or liturgical rite. It is important as an acknowledgement of the prior divine call, commission, and qualification of the person, though it is not a requirement for serving as a minister.3
In the Apostolic Faith organization, we typically hold ordinations during a regular church service or during an ordinance service. At the appointed time during the meeting, the Superintendent General or the District Superintendent presiding over the ordination ceremony announces to the congregation that the designated minister is to be ordained at that time. Often, he gives a brief explanation of the Scriptural purpose and basis for ordination. Then, in accordance with examples provided in the Word of God,4 members of the ministry and elders lay their hands on the minister, and pray together for divine anointing upon him or her.5 Those who are present join in prayer that God’s blessing will rest upon the life and service of the one being ordained.
We believe that it is the Holy Spirit who confers authority and power for ministry, rather than those who participate in the ordination ceremony. No particular person or group of individuals is essential to the ordination process; it can be done by any minister or ministers who have been granted permission to do so by the leadership of the Apostolic Faith organization.
Installation Services
Installation is similar to ordination in that it is a public ceremony by which leaders in the Apostolic Faith organization appoint a minister to a designated leadership role in our work. The main difference is that an installation does not include legally-issued credentials or certification; rather, it represents a corporate appointment or designation within the organizational structure of the Apostolic Faith. Often, installation appointments relate to supervision of geographic districts where our churches are located, or serving on a Board of Trustees.
In some countries or regions of the Apostolic Faith work, installation services are held for pastors, though this is not required when a minister assumes a pastoral role. At the headquarters church, installation services relate specifically to the appointment of District Superintendents.
The service itself is generally conducted much like an ordination, by the laying on of hands by qualified ministers and elders.
In the United States, the credentials and authorization of both ordained and installed pastors can be revoked at any time by the Superintendent General if the minister’s faith and practice fail to align to the Gospel of Christ, or cease to be in accordance with the doctrines, constitution, and bylaws of the Apostolic Faith organization. In countries outside of the United States, the District Superintendent is authorized to do this.
1 See Acts 1:21-26; 6:1-6; 13:2-3.
2 See the topic Ministerial Credentials and Ordination for more information on this subject.
3 In some cases, individuals in our work have assumed the role of pastor because a sudden vacancy in the pastoral ranks necessitated immediate placement of a minister in a particular location. In those cases, unless the pastoral assignment is designated as being only temporary, the acting pastor may be ordained at a time of the District Superintendent’s choosing. During the interim, he is allowed to perform all of the functions of a pastor except those for which the State requires an ordained minister.
4 See 1 Timothy 4:14 and 2 Timothy 1:6.
5 In light of the Biblical role of women in the church, the Apostolic Faith organization makes no distinction between men and women in the work of the ministry. Godly women who give evidence of the call of God upon their lives, and who qualify spiritually, are accorded the same privileges as men to labor in the ministry. See the topic Women Preachers for more information on this subject.
MINISTERS MEETINGS are regularly scheduled events in the Apostolic Faith organization. At these sessions, those who serve as ministers and pastors in our work gather to study topics relevant to our ministerial responsibilities, and to hone our abilities through structured training, that we may be “able ministers of the new testament” (2 Corinthians 3:6).
At the headquarters church in Portland, ministers meetings are held every year during the spring special meetings and the summer camp meeting. All ministers and pastors, both active and retired, are encouraged to attend. These times remind us that we are not serving in isolation, no matter what our geographic location or proximity to other Apostolic Faith churches. Rather, we are part of a divinely ordained and God-commissioned group, and we approach the responsibilities of our calling shoulder to shoulder with fellow ministers from around the world. As we share plans and goals and learn together, we come away feeling better equipped and inspired to putting our best efforts into moving the Gospel forward.<sup>1<sup>
In addition to the sessions held during special meetings and camp meeting, the ministerial staff in Portland meets from time to time throughout the year. Ministers meetings are also held during regional camp meetings and at district meetings, and should be held in individual churches where there are several on the local ministerial staff. Even if there are only two or three ministers at a given location, it is a good plan to meet occasionally to discuss ideas, plans, and details of the work.
Godly counsel is of particular benefit to those of us in the ministry. We need one another! Often the issues which face us cannot be shared with our families or the flock of God, but Scripture records numerous examples of spiritual leaders who conferred with each other regarding matters affecting the church. For example, the disciples discussed with elders of the early church the appointment of deacons to care for the widows (Acts 6), the prophets and teachers at Antioch sought God’s direction together until the Spirit revealed that Barnabas and Saul were to be sent out as missionaries (Acts 13), and the apostles and elders in Jerusalem came together to confer about the danger of reverting to the law of Moses (Acts 15).
All of us can learn from the experiences of others. When we face challenges in our work for the Lord, those challenges are not unique—very likely some of our peers have been through similar circumstances. Older ministers can offer insights and perspective based upon years of experience in the Gospel. Proverbs 27:17 tells us that “Iron sharpens iron,” and the guidance and advice of seasoned Gospel veterans is an invaluable resource. Ministers meetings are one venue where we can tap into that experience.
The ministers meetings held in Portland during special meetings and camp meeting have an annual theme. Over the years, these themes have included: Higher Ground, Sharing God’s Love, Follow Me, Hold the Fort, America’s Mission Field, Lessons in Leadership, The Art of Preaching, God Gave the Increase, and Equipped to Serve. Individual sessions under these headings have developed topics such as evangelism, helping troubled people, marriage and family issues, financial planning, enduring hardness, ministerial protocol, holding funerals, and a wide range of other topics. Various ministers are selected to act as facilitators/speakers for the sessions. In many cases, handouts and topic summaries are distributed to attendees. Transcripts and videos of these sessions are posted on the minister’s page of the website at www.apostolicfaith.org.
In conclusion, the benefit of gathering together as ministers is much more than information shared or techniques we learn. An additional benefit comes in the cultivating of our unity of purpose. We are persuaded that this work has a unique calling in the world, and that the teachings and way of life the Latter Rain Gospel advocates are relevant today. Ministers meetings help us to keep moving forward with a unified purpose. Unity is not a goal that can be achieved once and then relegated to the sidelines for a number of years. It requires a constant process of communicating, adapting, evaluating, and learning. To walk in unity, we must have a shared understanding of how we operate, and ministers meetings are one of the ways we achieve this.
<sup2>1<sup2> For more information regarding interaction between pastors and ministers, see the section of this manual titled Relationships with Other Ministers.
THOSE OF US who serve as pastors in the Apostolic Faith organization occasionally hold meetings specifically for the people of God who are part of our church. We refer to these gatherings as “Workers Meetings.” At times, we open such meetings to all who are involved in any capacity in the work of the Lord. In other circumstances, we invite only a particular group, such as the ushers, Sunday school teachers, or musicians. While our workers meetings may include instruction and challenge, our goal always should be to uplift, appreciate, and inspire our companions in ministry, remembering that we are all “labourers together with God” (1 Corinthians 3:9).<sup>1<sup>
Workers meetings are held for a variety of purposes.
Plan. When the local church undertakes a construction project, seasonal program, or community outreach, planning must occur. We often gather small groups of individuals from the church family who have appropriate skills or backgrounds, and work with them to establish direction, discuss implementation, assign tasks, and track progress, for Scripture tells us, “Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counselors they are established” (Proverbs 15:22).
Through the years, workers meetings have sometimes been held to discuss the purchase of a piece of property, securing of a different facility, refurbishing the sanctuary, or other business matters. We recommend using ordinance meetings as a time to accomplish this.
Inform. Those who are involved in the work obviously have an interest in the forward movement of the Gospel, so it is appropriate to bring them up-to-date occasionally on what has been happening in other locations around the world. Presentations related to a newly-emerging branch of the international work, the outreach at headquarters, or a particular missionary trip goal has proved to be a blessing and inspiration to the people of God. We have found that the more the people of God are informed about a particular outreach, the more wholeheartedly they will support it.
Encourage. Challenges come to every congregation. In such times, we may feel a need to gather those who carry the burden of the work and do what we can to encourage hearts. There are many Scriptural precedents for this. When the Children of Israel faced the Red Sea, Moses reassured them, “Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord” (Exodus 14:13). On the eve of crossing over into Canaan, Joshua encouraged the people that God “will without fail drive out from before you the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Hivites, and the Perizzites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Jebusites” (Joshua 3:10). The Apostle Paul’s letters often included words of support to his fellow workers. Encouragement has strengthened many an individual and group to overcome hard places.
Equip. As pastors, we have a responsibility to facilitate the efforts of the workers in the church. Meetings with groups such as Sunday school teachers, custodial staff, greeters, and musicians will help us understand their challenges and respond to their needs as God directs. In the spiritual realm, workers meetings offer a setting where we can teach and equip those involved in the work to be good altar workers, to give a strong testimony, to be friendly and welcoming to visitors, and other “family matters” of this nature.
Admonish. The New Testament is full of admonitions given by the Apostles to various groups in the Early Church. Peter taught, “All of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5). Paul exhorted believers in Philippi to “stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel” (Philippians 1:27), and instructed the Ephesian church to “keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). We too have a charge to “reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine” (2 Timothy 4:2). Admonitions given in a group setting may eliminate the necessity of dealing personally with challenges that could otherwise come up. It will also band the workers together as a united force for God, and in unity there is strength.
Warn. There may be times when, as shepherds of the flock, we must identify errors that could threaten the spiritual well-being of our congregations. Paul cautioned the elders at Ephesus, declaring that after his departure “grievous wolves [shall] enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also, of your own selves shall men arise…” (Acts 20:29-30). Like Paul, we must warn the people of God about harmful influences that can come from both outside and inside the church. Workers meetings traditionally have been the place where this is done, as such matters are best handled when only the family of God is present.
In conclusion, laboring together in the church with the saints of God requires unity, cooperation, and commitment to a common purpose. Workers meetings are one way we can cultivate these attributes, and thus influence God’s people to continue to move forward in alignment with God’s purposes for our organization.
<sup2>1<sup2> For more about our connection with those in our congregations, see the topic Relationship with Workers in the Church in this manual.
%402x.svg){kind=icon}
%402x.svg){kind=icon}
