Category Archives: Five Fold

The early Church was built on a living foundation: “having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone” (Ephesians 2:20, NASB). These men and women were not ornamental — they were essential to the growth and strength of the Church. Yet how they moved and ministered often raises questions for us today.

Were apostles and prophets called to stay planted in a single church? Or were they called to move continually? And should they even have a home church if their mission requires constant travel?

Let’s walk slowly and biblically, for God is not a God of confusion but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33, NASB).

1. Jesus’ Ministry: Relationship and Movement

Jesus Christ — the Chief Apostle (Hebrews 3:1) — gives us the first and clearest model.

He ministered through deep relationships:

He called the Twelve to walk with Him (Mark 3:14).
He ate with sinners and built trust (Luke 5:29–30).
He wept over Jerusalem, showing the depth of His love (Luke 19:41).

Yet Jesus was also continually moving:

“Jesus was going about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom” (Matthew 9:35, NASB).
“The Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head” (Matthew 8:20, NASB).
“I must also preach the kingdom of God to the other cities, because I was sent for this purpose” (Luke 4:43, NASB).

Jesus was rooted in love but ready to move wherever the Father sent Him. He did not settle in one place permanently because His mission was to reach the lost, to proclaim the Kingdom, and to prepare the way for the Church.

The apostles and prophets would follow His model.

2. Apostles and Prophets in the Early Church

The word apostle (ἀπόστολος, apostolos) means “one who is sent.” The word prophet (προφήτης, prophētēs) means “one who speaks forth” by inspiration. Both callings imply movement and message — to go where God sends and to speak what God says.

Apostles Moved with Purpose

Paul’s life is a clear picture:

Sent out from Antioch after prayer and fasting (Acts 13:1–3).
Traveled from Jerusalem and round about as far as Illyricum (Romans 15:19, NASB).
Returned to his home church to report what God had done (Acts 14:27).

Peter, John, Barnabas, and Silas also moved widely. They built churches, appointed elders (Titus 1:5), and laid foundations.

Apostles were not tied to one congregation. They were tied to the mission of Christ.

Prophets Strengthened and Encouraged

Prophets like Agabus traveled from Judea to Antioch (Acts 11:27–28) and from Jerusalem to Caesarea (Acts 21:10–11).

Judas and Silas, called prophets, traveled to Antioch and “encouraged and strengthened the brethren with a lengthy message” (Acts 15:32, NASB).

Prophets built up the Church wherever there was need. They were both local and itinerant, moving as the Spirit led.

The Joy of Heaven — Jesus rests with friends in Bethany, finding peace and fellowship before the cross, while Mary and Martha quietly serve in love.

3. Did Apostles and Prophets Have a Home Church?

Yes — but not in the sense of being locked into one location.

Paul and Barnabas had Antioch as their sending church (Acts 13:1–3). It was where they were known, prayed for, and commissioned. It was where they reported back (Acts 14:27).

A home church meant:

Spiritual covering — prayer, accountability, wisdom.
Fellowship — a place of encouragement and growth.
Discernment — confirming the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Provision — at times practical support (Philippians 4:15–16).

But it did not mean:

Restriction to one local ministry.
Settling permanently into one congregation.

The home church was a wellspring, not a leash.

4. Rootedness and Readiness: Both Are Needed

Some today say apostles and prophets must settle permanently in one church, citing Jesus’ emphasis on relationships. But remember — Jesus moved continually according to the Father’s will.

Likewise, apostles and prophets must be:

Rooted — in love, humility, accountability, and fellowship.
Ready — to go where the Holy Spirit leads.

They build relationships deeply, but they are not called to stay comfortable. They are called to equip the saints, “for the building up of the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12, NASB).

Apostles and prophets belong to the universal Body, sent not just to their own, but to all who will receive the Word.

5. Why This Matters Today

Without a home church:

Apostles and prophets can become isolated and unaccountable.
They risk drifting without spiritual family.

Without readiness to move:

They can become stagnant.
They miss the calling to reach and strengthen the wider Body.

Both are needed: rootedness in a local body and readiness to obey the Spirit’s call.

This guards against pride and independence while releasing the fullness of their calling.

“He looked at me—not past me. Not through me. At me.” On the shore of grace, Peter meets the eyes of mercy and knows—He came back for me.

6. How Does This Look Today?

In 2025, whether in a non-denominational church or a denominational setting, apostles and prophets must walk carefully and biblically.

In a Non-Denominational Church:

Apostles and prophets often arise organically, recognized by their fruit rather than formal titles.
They should remain submitted to church leadership and known among the people.
A home church should commission them through prayer and fasting (Acts 13:2–3), maintaining ongoing relationship and accountability.
As they travel and minister elsewhere, they regularly return to their home church to report, refresh, and reconnect.
Healthy churches release them, understanding they are gifts to the whole Body, not just their local assembly (Ephesians 4:11–12).

In a Denominational Church:

Many denominations have formal structures for recognizing and sending leaders.
Apostles and prophets may operate under different titles — sometimes as church planters, missionaries, or overseers.
They still must be rooted in a local congregation and affirmed by trusted leadership.
Movement is often more structured, but the heart remains the same: relationship with a home body, readiness to serve wherever God leads.
Accountability may involve multiple layers, such as local pastors and regional leaders, ensuring both freedom and spiritual safety.

Across both models, the essentials are:

A clear home base — not as a limitation, but as a fountain of strength and covering.
Spirit-led movement — not driven by ambition, but by the voice of God.
Mutual trust — the church trusts the sent ones, and the sent ones honor their sending church.

In short, apostles and prophets today must balance belonging and being sent — deeply connected, yet joyfully obedient to the Spirit’s call. The New Testament model is timeless, even in our modern structures.

7. Final Thoughts

Apostles and prophets need a home church — and they need to move when God says move.

This is the model of Jesus Himself. Deeply relational, radically obedient. He calls His servants to the same path.

If you are discerning a calling to apostolic or prophetic ministry, hear this: God plants you in fellowship to nourish you — and He sends you out to be His hands and feet. Do not resist either. Stay rooted. Stay ready.

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be firm, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58, NASB).

A Prayer for the Called

Father, we ask You to raise up apostles and prophets in our generation — men and women rooted in love, steadfast in truth, and obedient to Your sending. Plant them in strong fellowships. Fill them with boldness to go where You send. Let them serve not in their strength, but in utter dependence on You. More of You, less of us, O Lord. Teach us to walk in step with Your Spirit, anchored in Your Word, and aflame with Your purpose. In Yeshua’s name we pray. Amen.

⸻

No Guilt in Life No Fear in Death — The face of an apostle, marked by reflection and resolve, beholding the risen Christ—no guilt in life, no fear in death.

P.S. A Word About Today’s Church Culture

In today’s churches — whether denominational or non-denominational — visitors are often viewed as potential members. Growth strategies, assimilation systems, and local community focus shape the atmosphere. But what happens when an apostle or prophet, sent by God, comes not looking for a home but carrying a word or a mission? Often, they are quietly overlooked:

They don’t fit the membership model.
They aren’t long-term attenders, so little relational investment is made.
They are seen as outsiders, not trusted contributors.
Their divine calling remains unseen in systems focused on stability.

This reality creates real tension for modern apostles and prophets, who are called to strengthen, edify, and establish the Church.

Practically, this means:

Expect Resistance — Like Paul in Acts 9:26, acceptance may not come easily.
Walk in Humility — Seek the open hearts and houses God prepares (Luke 10:5–6).
Build Strategic Relationships — Focus on friendships and networks that value fivefold ministry (Ephesians 4:11–12).
Anchor in a Strong Home Church — A sending church becomes vital for encouragement and covering.
Be Faithful Despite Reception — Jesus said, “Shake the dust off your feet” (Matthew 10:14, NASB). Faithfulness is measured by obedience, not applause.

Today’s culture may not easily make room for traveling apostles and prophets — unless they’re celebrities. But God still sends them. The true call demands humility, persistence, and a heart set on the approval of God, not men.

Pastoring a Congregation: Guiding, Teaching, and Nurturing Through the Holy Spirit

September 1, 2024 warren

Pastoring a congregation is a divine calling, a sacred responsibility entrusted by God. It is much like raising children in the Lord, yet the task is not one to be undertaken in human strength alone. As we shepherd the flock of God, we must recognize that it is the Holy Spirit who empowers and guides us. Our role is to be faithful vessels through which God works, allowing His power to manifest in the lives of those we lead.

Teaching and Preaching with the Spirit’s Power

Imagine a seasoned pastor standing before his congregation, Bible in hand, delivering a message that cuts to the heart. The words he speaks are not his own; they are given to him by the Holy Spirit. He knows that true transformation in the hearts of his listeners comes not from eloquent speech, but from the Spirit’s power.

As the Apostle Paul wrote, “My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power” (1 Corinthians 2:4-5). When pastoring a congregation, it is crucial to rely on the Holy Spirit to bring understanding and transformation through the Word. Pastors are called to preach the Word in season and out of season, reproving, rebuking, and exhorting with complete patience and teaching (2 Timothy 4:2). This is not done through human wisdom but through the power of God, who works through us to accomplish His purposes.

Guidance and Discipline with Patience and Long-Suffering

Consider a father patiently guiding his child as they learn to walk, each step shaky and uncertain. The father’s hands are ready to catch the child when they stumble, and he encourages them to try again, knowing that growth takes time.

Similarly, pastoring a congregation requires patience and long-suffering. As Peter exhorts, “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you” (1 Peter 5:2). Spiritual growth is a process, and each member of the congregation progresses at their own pace. Like the father guiding his child, pastors must be ready to catch their congregants when they stumble, offering grace and encouragement as they continue on their spiritual journey. It is through the Holy Spirit that we are equipped to exercise this patience and provide the necessary guidance.

Modeling Christlikeness by God’s Grace

Picture a mentor leading by example, demonstrating Christlike behavior in every aspect of life. Their actions speak louder than words, showing others what it means to follow Jesus.

Paul’s exhortation to the Corinthians rings true for pastors: “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). In pastoring a congregation, modeling Christlikeness is paramount. This is not achieved by human effort alone but through God’s grace working in and through us. As Philippians 2:13 reminds us, “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” By living out our faith, we show our congregations what it means to follow Christ, relying on the Holy Spirit to lead us in every area of life.

Nurturing Spiritual Growth with the Spirit’s Comfort and Personal Attention

Envision a gardener carefully tending to each plant in their garden, knowing that each one requires different care to thrive. Some need more sunlight, others more water, and all require the gardener’s attention to flourish.

Similarly, pastoring a congregation involves nurturing each member’s spiritual health. As Paul explains in Ephesians 4:11-13, Christ gave pastors and teachers “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” This nurturing is done through the comfort and power of the Holy Spirit, who sustains and grows the faith of each believer. Moreover, just as the gardener gives personal attention to each plant, pastors must offer individualized care to their congregants. This may involve one-on-one counseling or mentoring, providing guidance tailored to each person’s unique spiritual needs. The Holy Spirit empowers us to provide this care, ensuring that every member is supported in their journey of faith.

Creating Good Spiritual Habits: The Role of Discipline and Celebration of Milestones

Think of an athlete training for a marathon, diligently running each day to build endurance. Over time, the daily practice becomes a habit, and the runner’s strength and stamina increase, leading to success on race day.

In the same way, developing good spiritual habits is crucial for both pastors and their congregations. Paul advises in 1 Timothy 4:7-8, “Train yourself to be godly.” Just as the athlete trains physically, pastors must encourage their congregations to engage in daily spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible reading, and service. A practical way to establish these habits is by committing to a 30-day challenge, knowing that consistent repetition can help these practices become ingrained in daily life. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to grow in these disciplines, leading to lasting spiritual growth.

Furthermore, just as an athlete celebrates milestones in their training, pastors should celebrate spiritual milestones within the church, such as baptisms, confirmations, and personal testimonies of growth. These celebrations encourage the congregation to continue pursuing their faith with joy and dedication, recognizing the progress made in their spiritual journey.

Intercessory Prayer for the Congregation

Imagine a mother praying fervently for her child, her heart burdened with love and concern. She knows that her prayers can bring comfort, protection, and guidance to her child, even when she cannot be physically present.

Intercessory prayer is a vital aspect of pastoring a congregation. James 5:16 exhorts us to “pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” As pastors, we are called to lift our congregants up in prayer, interceding for their spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. This prayer support is crucial, as it invites God’s power and guidance into the lives of the church members, strengthening the overall spiritual health of the congregation.

Creating a Safe and Nurturing Environment

Consider a teacher who creates a classroom environment where students feel safe to express themselves and ask questions. The teacher sets boundaries, fosters respect, and ensures that each student is treated with care and dignity.

Pastoring a congregation involves creating a spiritually safe space where growth can occur. Proverbs 27:23 reminds us to “know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds.” As pastors, we must protect our congregations from harmful influences, false teachings, and divisive behavior, ensuring that the church is a place of love, support, and sound doctrine. By fostering this environment, we help our congregations thrive in their faith, growing into the fullness of Christ.

Pastors Need Shepherds Too

Imagine a seasoned pastor who, after years of faithful service, finds refreshment and guidance from a trusted mentor. This mentor provides wisdom, encouragement, and accountability, helping the pastor to stay grounded and effective in ministry.

It is vital to recognize that pastors themselves need to be pastored. Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Just as pastors care for their congregations, they need trusted, loving leaders who can provide spiritual guidance and support. Hebrews 13:17 also reminds us to “obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls.” Having a mentor or spiritual advisor ensures that pastors are cared for as they care for others, helping them to remain strong in their own walk with God.

Conclusion

Pastoring a congregation is a divine calling that mirrors the responsibility of raising children in the Lord. It requires teaching, guiding, modeling, and nurturing the church community, all through the power of the Holy Spirit. By exercising patience, providing personal attention, celebrating milestones, engaging in intercessory prayer, and creating a safe environment, pastors can lead their congregations toward greater spiritual maturity and a closer walk with God. As pastors rely on the Holy Spirit and receive guidance from trusted leaders, they can effectively shepherd their congregations, helping them to grow in faith and live out the truths of Scripture in their daily lives.

Psalm 133