Tag Archives: Fivefold Ministry

Repentance

Turn Away from Evil and Walk in Purity

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“I will maintain my righteousness and never let go of it; my heart will not reproach me as long as I live.”
—Job 27:6, NASB

Beloved, hear the word of the Lord. If we desire revival, if we long for His glory to rest upon us, we must turn away from evil and walk in purity. This is not a side teaching. It is not a call for the “serious” believer only. It is the foundation upon which all intimacy with God stands. We cannot see Him and still embrace what He hates.

Come Out from Among Them

The prophetic voice cries aloud: return to the ancient path. Do not mix what is holy with what is profane. Do not call evil good, nor tolerate darkness in the name of relevance. The word is clear: “Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate, says the Lord, and do not touch what is unclean, and I will welcome you” (2 Corinthians 6:17, NASB).

Today the Church risks being known for everything but holiness. We speak of love, but do not discipline sin. We exalt grace, but refuse to grieve over what grieves the Spirit. “Be holy, for I am holy,” says the Lord (1 Peter 1:16, NASB). And holiness is not a style or a tone—it is separation unto God. It is walking as Yeshua walked, with clean hands and a burning heart.

Build on the Rock

The apostolic call is to establish foundations. And any true foundation must be built on purity of heart. Yeshua said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” (Matthew 5:8, NASB). Not only in eternity, but now. Purity grants spiritual clarity. Apostolic vision cannot function through a fogged lens. If we want heaven’s blueprint, we must cleanse the altar first.

Paul reminded Timothy, “The goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from a sincere faith” (1 Timothy 1:5, NASB). Let every leader, every disciple-maker, every spiritual father and mother hear this: we reproduce what we are. If we want a pure Bride, we must be a pure people. If we want to plant holy churches, we must be holy vessels.

Guard the Heart

Let us not forget the pastoral heart of God. He is not harsh. He is holy. He does not call us to purity to shame us, but to heal us. Compromise is a wound that festers. Sin always takes more than it gives. But purity restores the soul. “Who may ascend onto the hill of the Lord? And who may stand in His holy place? One who has clean hands and a pure heart” (Psalm 24:3-4, NASB).

Pastor, shepherd the flock by example. Speak tenderly, but speak truth. Do not pamper the sheep into apathy. Call them higher. Let your heart break for what defiles them. We must not build cozy gatherings while the cancer of sin spreads through the body. Feed them, yes—but cleanse the wound.

Expose the Lies

The teacher’s task is to bring clarity, not confusion. And Scripture is not unclear. The call to turn from sin is woven through both covenants. “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to keep away from wickedness” (2 Timothy 2:19, NASB). “Make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts” (Romans 13:14, NASB). “Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded” (James 4:8, NASB).

This is not law. This is love. God’s commands are not burdensome. They are guardrails that protect the glory He desires to share with us. The Spirit leads us into all truth—and purity is the fruit of truth applied. We do not obey to earn His presence. We obey because we love Him. “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15, NASB).

Choose Life

The evangelistic heart weeps over the lost and cries out to the wandering: choose life. Choose purity. Choose the cross. Salvation is more than escape from hell. It is freedom from sin. The Gospel is not a license to stay in filth but an invitation to come out clean.

Yeshua still saves. And He still sanctifies. The Blood is enough to wash every stain. The Spirit is powerful enough to break every chain. And the Father still runs to the repentant with open arms. Let us proclaim it boldly: “If anyone is in Christ, this person is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come” (2 Corinthians 5:17, NASB).

To the addict, to the immoral, to the proud and self-justifying—there is mercy if you will turn. But you must turn. The way is narrow. The gate is small. You cannot carry your idols into the kingdom. Lay them down and come.

The Call: Turn and See

Beloved, turn away from evil. Not just the obvious kind, but the hidden kind. The bitterness. The secret lust. The casual compromise. The entertainment that quenches the Spirit. The conversation that pollutes. The justification that numbs. Turn. Purify your heart. “Pursue peace with all people, and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14, NASB).

Do not delay. A pure heart is a joyful heart. A clean conscience is a soft pillow. And the reward is God Himself. Revival is not for the clever, but for the consecrated. “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8, NASB).

Let the Church be holy again. Let the Bride be ready. Let the Spirit fall on altars that are clean.

Purge my soul and wash me white,
Turn my gaze to holy light.
No more shade shall stain my song—
I was made to love what’s strong.

A Prayer for Purity

Holy God,

Search me and know me. Burn away every unclean thing. I do not want to grieve Your Spirit. I choose to turn away from evil, even when it costs me. Cleanse my eyes. Cleanse my motives. Cleanse my speech and my desires. Let me be holy as You are holy. Fill me with a love for righteousness and a hatred of sin. Make me pure, not in name only, but in truth. Let my life reflect the Lamb I follow. In the name of Yeshua, Amen.

See Also

Apostolic Prophetic

Break the Box

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Return to Me

To My Church, whom I purchased with My own blood:

I love you.
With a love stronger than death.
I have never left you. Even when you built without Me, I remained near.
Even when you organized Me out, I stood at the door and waited.
I have watched every gathering, every song, every schedule.
I know your labor, your love for the lost, your good intentions.
I have seen your heart—and I love you still.

But now I speak—not just in comfort, but in clarity.

You have boxed Me in.

You have created systems to keep things safe.
You have guarded the order, protected the time of leadership, and honed the rhythms of ministry until they flow without Me.

You pray for Me to move, but only in ways that match what you’ve built.
You ask for wisdom, but filter My answer through the language of your traditions.
You hunger for revival, but only if it comes wrapped in the familiar.

Beloved, I cannot be reduced. I will not be managed.
You were made for My presence, not just My principles.
You were born of fire. But now you settle for form.

And when I send someone—one carrying the water you cried for—they are met with silence.
They do not want position.
They did not come to join your program.
They came bearing My Word.
Yet you say:
“Already saved, not here to join, no place here.”

So they pretend to be visitors just to receive attention,
because if they don’t fit your structure, your defenses rise to protect your flow.

And I weep.

Not in anger, but in grief—because I came to you through them, and you did not recognize Me.

But even now, I speak as a Father: Break the Box.

Tear down what you’ve built in your own strength.
Not all of it must go—but all of it must bow.

Welcome again the voice of the Shepherd.
Welcome the messengers I send, even when they do not wear your badge.
Welcome the apostolic voice that rebuilds from ruins.
Welcome the prophetic cry that stirs holy discomfort.
Welcome the evangelistic fire that won’t settle for numbers.
Welcome the pastoral heart that bleeds for healing, not performance.
Welcome the teaching wellspring that flows from Spirit and truth.

Let the fivefold gifts not compete, but complete one another—for the building up of My Body in love.

You say, “But Lord, we only wanted to do things decently and in order.”
I reply: My order begins with Me at the center, not on the sidelines.

You say, “But this is what worked in the past.”
I reply: I am doing a new thing. Will you perceive it?

You say, “But we are still preaching the Word.”
I reply: You quote Me, but do you wait for Me?

Beloved, this is not My anger.
This is My jealous love.
I will not let you drift into lifeless motion when I died to give you abundant life.
I will not allow My Bride to settle for form when she was made for flame.

So I stand outside.
I knock.
I wait.
And I whisper: “Let Me in again.”

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in…” (Revelation 3:20, NASB)

Break the box. Open the door. I’m still here.

I love you too much to leave you as you are.

Signed,
The One who walks among the lampstands,
who calls you by name, and who will finish what He began in you.

See Also

Five Fold

Apostles and Prophets: Rooted Yet Ready

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.

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.

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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:

  1. Expect Resistance — Like Paul in Acts 9:26, acceptance may not come easily.
  2. Walk in Humility — Seek the open hearts and houses God prepares (Luke 10:5–6).
  3. Build Strategic Relationships — Focus on friendships and networks that value fivefold ministry (Ephesians 4:11–12).
  4. Anchor in a Strong Home Church — A sending church becomes vital for encouragement and covering.
  5. 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.

See Also

Apostolic Prophetic

Set Apart, Not Above

The Coffee Cup Conundrum

Imagine walking into a church fellowship hall with a coffee cup labeled “Repent and Be Transformed.” You grab a seat, but people mysteriously drift to the other side of the room. You didn’t say a word—but somehow, your cup did.

That’s what it often feels like for New Testament prophets and apostles. It’s not that they want to be separate. It’s just… they carry something that convicts, and sometimes even a silent presence makes others uncomfortable.

The Call That Separates You

If you’re walking in a prophetic or apostolic call, you may feel both deeply connected to God and strangely disconnected from His people. That tension isn’t a flaw in you—or them. It’s the nature of the calling.

In the New Testament Church, apostles and prophets were foundational (Ephesians 2:20), but they were never common. They were sent, not stationed. And that sending often involved solitude, resistance, and spiritual weight that few understood.

1. Apostolic Ministry: Sent, Not Settled

Apostles like Paul lived on the move, misunderstood by outsiders and even criticized by believers. “To this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty… we have become as the scum of the world” (1 Corinthians 4:11–13, NASB).

The apostolic isn’t glamorous—it’s sacrificial. Apostles break ground others don’t even realize needs breaking. And when you’re carrying a spiritual bulldozer into a potluck, don’t be surprised if no one saves you a seat.

2. Prophetic Ministry: Loved and Avoided

True prophets don’t just comfort—they confront. Agabus predicted famine (Acts 11:28). John called out false teachers. Paul corrected Peter publicly (Galatians 2:11). Prophets reveal what many would rather ignore.

Their calling often feels like wearing spiritual cologne labeled “Conviction #9.” No wonder people smile awkwardly and excuse themselves.

3. Separation Is for Service, Not Superiority

This is key: prophets and apostles aren’t better—they’re burdened. Set apart, not above. The Lord calls them close so they can speak faithfully. They are not spiritual celebrities; they are servants under orders.

Paul didn’t boast. He wept. He was beaten, imprisoned, rejected—yet still burning with love for the Church. Prophets aren’t distant because they don’t care; they’re distant because they’ve seen something too holy to treat casually.

4. The Early Church Felt It Too

Even in the book of Acts, apostles were not always welcomed warmly. Paul spent much of his ministry defending his call, not just to outsiders, but to believers. Unity in the Spirit doesn’t erase the discomfort of truth.

“Have I become your enemy by telling you the truth?” (Galatians 4:16, NASB).

That question still echoes in many prophetic hearts today.

5. If You Feel Alone, You’re Not Alone

This calling can feel lonely—but you’re not the first to walk it. John was exiled. Paul was abandoned. Yeshua was betrayed. You are in good company.

So if you’re the one who speaks up when others stay silent… if your obedience costs you invitations, recognition, or comfort—know this: You are not alone. You are set apart.

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Key Takeaways (for Search + Social)

  • Prophets and apostles often feel isolated—not from pride, but purpose.
  • Their calling disrupts comfort but builds the Body.
  • They are vital to Church health, even when misunderstood.

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“Let a man regard us in this manner: as servants of Messiah and stewards of the mysteries of God.” — 1 Corinthians 4:1, NASB

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Prayer

Lord, for every son and daughter You’ve called to walk the narrow road—give grace, give strength, give peace. Remind them that though they may feel alone, they are deeply known. Let them walk humbly, serve faithfully, and speak boldly. We ask this in the name of Yeshua, who was rejected that we might be restored. Amen.

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See Also

Prophets

Prophecy in the New Testament Church

In the New Testament (NT), prophecy is both a gift and a ministry. Unlike the Old Testament model, where prophets often held exclusive access to God’s voice for the people, the NT church reveals a more widespread prophetic activity among believers. This shift is anchored in Acts 2:17 (NASB): “And it shall be in the last days,” God says, “That I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind; And your sons and your daughters will prophesy…” Prophecy becomes a common manifestation of the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Key aspects of prophecy in the NT Church:

  • Edification, exhortation, and consolation (1 Corinthians 14:3 NASB). Prophecy in the church is primarily for the building up of others—encouraging, calling forth, and comforting.
  • Accessible and orderly: “For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all may be exhorted” (1 Corinthians 14:31 NASB). The gift is not limited to a few but made available to many.
  • Tested, not blindly followed: Unlike OT prophets who spoke with unchallenged authority, NT prophecy is subject to discernment: “Do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything; hold firmly to that which is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:20–21 NASB).
  • Distinguished from the office of prophet: While many may prophesy, Ephesians 4:11 notes that Christ specifically gives some to the church as prophets. These individuals carry a greater mantle of responsibility and often operate in consistent revelation, foundational roles, or regional influence.

The prophetic voice in the NT church is ultimately a testimony of Yeshua. Revelation 19:10 (NASB) says, “For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” It’s not about future-telling alone; it’s about revealing the heart, purposes, and presence of Yeshua to His people.

The Office of the Prophet vs. the Gift of Prophecy

A clear contrast must be made:

Office of ProphetGift of Prophecy
Part of the fivefold ministry (Eph. 4:11)One of the gifts of the Spirit (1 Cor. 12:10)
Carries governmental authority within the churchOperates under local church authority
Often directional or foundational (Acts 13:1–3)Primarily for strengthening, encouragement, comfort
Tested by fruit and longevityTested by content and discernment in the moment
Long-term development and callingMay be used occasionally or seasonally

A prophet may function with visions, dreams, divine warnings, and strong directional insight, like Agabus, who prophesied a famine and warned Paul of persecution (Acts 11:27–30; Acts 21:10–11).

What Are Words of Knowledge?

Words of knowledge are another gift of the Spirit, distinct from prophecy, yet often operating together. 1 Corinthians 12:8 (NASB) says: “For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit.”

A word of knowledge is a supernatural insight into a fact or reality the speaker could not have naturally known. It’s not future-oriented like prophecy often is, but present or past-focused, often unlocking faith or repentance.

Examples:

  • Yeshua tells the woman at the well that she had five husbands (John 4:16–19).
  • Peter confronts Ananias and Sapphira about their lie (Acts 5:1–4).
  • Paul knows that a man has faith to be healed (Acts 14:9–10).

Contrasting Prophecy and Words of Knowledge

ProphecyWord of Knowledge
Often future-focused or directiveUsually present or past-focused
Brings encouragement, direction, or warningReveals hidden facts to unlock hearts or faith
Can be general for a group or specific to a personOften specific and personal
May call someone into a future they didn’t seeMay reveal something they thought was hidden

Words of knowledge often prepare the way for prophecy. A person hears a fact only God could know—this stirs their heart. Then, prophecy can flow, giving them direction or encouragement. It’s like a divine one-two punch.

A Church Gathering

Imagine a gathering where a woman is struggling privately with fear. The Spirit gives someone a word of knowledge: “There’s someone here who hasn’t slept peacefully in three nights because of dread.” That person is identified and feels exposed—in a good way. Then prophecy comes: “The Lord says, ‘You are not alone. I have stood by your bed. I am driving out fear and giving you peace tonight.’”

Both gifts worked together—word of knowledge revealed the situation, and prophecy revealed the heart of God.

Conclusion: Prophecy in the New Testament Church

Prophecy in the New Testament Church is vital, powerful, and accessible. It must be sought with humility, tested with Scripture, and permanently anchored in the person of Yeshua. The Lord desires His people not just to hear sermons, but to hear His voice. As we hunger for more of Him and press into the Spirit’s leading, both prophets and words of knowledgehelp the church grow in love, unity, and holiness.

Prayer

Father YHVH, we thank You for pouring out Your Spirit in these last days. Let prophecy rise again in purity and power. Cleanse us of pride or fear, and train our ears to hear Your voice clearly. Let the gifts of the Spirit not be rare among us, but normal, humbling us with awe. Use us to encourage, convict, and lead others back to Yeshua. We want more of You and less of us. Teach us to speak what You are saying and to listen with trembling hearts. In the name of Yeshua our Messiah, Amen.

See Also

Humility

Humility in Church Leadership: Saved by Grace

About 8 minute read

God’s grace is the cornerstone of our faith, reminding us that we are all sinners saved by His mercy and love. Despite our good works, if we perform them in our own strength and for our own glory, they are merely “filthy rags” before Him. Isaiah 64:6 (AMP) emphasizes this truth: “For we have all become like one who is [ceremonially] unclean [like a leper], and all our deeds of righteousness are like filthy rags.”

God does not call the equipped; He equips the called. He uses those who are available and willing, regardless of their status, abilities, or past sins. This truth humbles us, teaching us to see ourselves as God sees us: redeemed sinners continually being sanctified by His grace. Romans 3:23-24 (AMP) reminds us, “since all have sinned and continually fall short of the glory of God, and are being justified as a gift by His grace, through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus.”

We must guard against pride and the temptation to think of ourselves more highly than we ought. Pride can deceive us into believing we are more valuable or useful to God than others. Yet, God may choose to work through a child on the street or the most unlikely person, for He shows no partiality. James 4:6 (AMP) states, “But He gives us more and more grace [through the power of the Holy Spirit, to defy sin and live an obedient life that reflects both our faith and our gratitude for our salvation]. Therefore, it says, ‘God is opposed to the proud and haughty, but [continually] gives [the gift of] grace to the humble [who turn away from self-righteousness].'”

Sanctification is a process God works within us, not something we achieve on our own. Philippians 1:6 (AMP) assures us, “I am convinced and confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will [continue to] perfect and complete it until the day of Christ Jesus [the time of His return].” We are all in different stages of this journey, yet none of it is due to our merit; it is solely by God’s grace.

In the body of Christ, the fivefold ministries—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—are gifts given by God to equip the saints for the work of ministry. Ephesians 4:11-12 (AMP) explains, “And [His gifts to the church were varied and] He Himself appointed some as apostles [special messengers, representatives], some as prophets [who speak a new message from God to the people], some as evangelists [who spread the good news of salvation], and some as pastors and teachers [to shepherd and guide and instruct], [and He did this] to fully equip and perfect the saints (God’s people) for works of service, to build up the body of Christ [the church].”

These ministries are not positions to be earned or coveted; they are given according to God’s grace and purpose. They serve to build us up, making us better vessels for His work. We are reminded that “every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of lights” (James 1:17 AMP).

Titles in Church Leadership

The question of why some leaders insist on titles such as “The Right Reverend,” “His Holiness,” or other common titles is indeed significant. Titles can serve practical purposes:

  1. Identification and Clarity: Titles help church members and the broader community understand the roles and responsibilities of different leaders. This can be especially useful in larger congregations where personal relationships with every member are not feasible.
  2. Respect and Authority: In many cultures, titles convey respect and acknowledge the authority and responsibility of the office. This helps maintain order and respect within the church body.

A Call to Humility

However, the insistence on titles can become problematic if it fosters pride or a sense of superiority. Jesus warned against this very attitude in Matthew 23:8-12 (AMP): “But do not be called Rabbi (teacher); for One is your Teacher, and you are all equally brothers. Do not call anyone on earth [who guides you spiritually] your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. Do not let yourselves be called leaders or teachers; for One is your Leader (Teacher), the Christ. But the greatest among you will be your servant. Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be raised to honor.”

The true mark of a leader in the body of Christ is humility and a servant’s heart. Jesus, our ultimate example, said in Matthew 20:28 (AMP), “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many [paying the price to set them free from the penalty of sin].”

Leaders should therefore be cautious about the use of titles, ensuring that they are used appropriately and humbly, without becoming a source of pride. The focus should always be on serving God and His people, recognizing that any authority and responsibility are given by God’s grace alone.

Conclusion

God’s grace, not our efforts or status, defines our value and usefulness in His kingdom. We are all sinners saved by grace, and any good that comes from us is because of His work in us. Let us remain humble, recognizing that our sanctification and the gifts we receive are all evidence of His boundless love and mercy. In this understanding, we find true unity and purpose in serving Him.

Self Reflection

  1. Do I rely on God’s grace for my salvation, or do I sometimes trust in my own good works?
  2. How often do I take pride in my accomplishments rather than giving glory to God?
  3. Am I truly available and willing for God to use me, regardless of my status or abilities?
  4. How do I view others in the body of Christ? Do I see them as equals, or do I sometimes feel superior?
  5. Do I humbly accept God’s process of sanctification in my life, or do I try to achieve it on my own?
  6. How do I respond to the gifts and ministries given to others in the church? Do I see them as a blessing, or do I feel envious or entitled?
  7. When I serve in a leadership role, do I use my title to serve others or to elevate myself?
  8. How do I react when someone without a formal title or position demonstrates strong faith or leadership qualities?
  9. In what ways can I cultivate a servant’s heart, following the example of Jesus?
  10. How do I maintain a focus on God’s grace and mercy in my daily walk with Him?

A Prayer for Humility and Grace

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your boundless grace and mercy. We acknowledge that we are all sinners saved by Your grace alone, and that any good within us is a testament to Your work in our lives. Lord, we confess that too often we rely on our own strength and take pride in our accomplishments, forgetting that all we have and all we are is a gift from You.

Father, we ask for Your forgiveness for the times we have looked down on others or felt superior. Help us to see each person through Your eyes, recognizing that we are all equally loved and valued by You. Teach us to be truly available for Your purposes, willing to be used by You in any way, regardless of our status or abilities.

Lord, as we journey through the process of sanctification, remind us that it is Your work within us that makes us more like Christ. Help us to humbly accept Your guidance and correction, trusting in Your perfect plan for our lives.

We thank You for the fivefold ministries and the gifts You have given to build up Your church. May we receive these gifts with humility and use them to serve others, always pointing back to Your glory and not our own. When we find ourselves in positions of leadership, keep us grounded in the example of Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve.

Father, cultivate within us a servant’s heart. Help us to follow Jesus’ example in every aspect of our lives, always putting others before ourselves and seeking to glorify You in all that we do. Keep us mindful of Your grace and mercy, that we may walk humbly with You every day.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

See Also