Pastors
are already in place, so fitting in apostles, evangelists and
prophets as well is difficult. A number of false trails have
been suggested as a solution for this dilemma.
- Some commentators suggest
that the ascension ministries are itinerant consultant
ministers. Apostles, evangelists, prophets, pastors and
teachers travel from church to church exercising their
ministries and strengthening the church. The problem with
this approach is that while it may work for prophets and
evangelists, pastors do not fit. A pastor cannot be an
itinerant consultant.
- Some Christian leaders claim
that God has gifted them with all the ascension ministries.
This makes them into a sort of super pastor, who is more
gifted than ordinary pastors. This does not seem to fit with
the desire of the Spirit to spread gifts around, rather than
concentrate them in one person.
- An older solution is the
para church organisation. Many evangelists have found their
place in a para church organisation. However, this is not a
solution for prophets and apostles.
- Recently a new apostolic
reformation has been announced. This move places apostles in
a hierarchy over groups of pastors and churches. The problem
with this is that it differs very little from the system of
bishops and archbishops which are part of the older order.
We need to get back to the
scriptures to understand these gifts. |