The following blog references a well written article by Pastor Jim Feeney, Ph.D.
Are There Modern Day Apostles andChristian Prophets Today?

Please take the time to read this concise biblical summary on the topic of Apostles and Proohets before commenting on my blog - many thanks to you as well as to Pastor Jim.

- Dave

Not too many weeks ago, I suffered through a Sunday morning service (as we all have occationally). My spirit was not at rest as I heard the pastor state his views on apostles and prophets, and clearly state that there was no biblical purpose in our day for the role of apostles, and the role itself was no longer needed (as it's authenticity was reduced to little more than one who actually witnesed the life incarnate of Jesus our Lord).

In fairness to him (and I do have a sincere love for this pastor), he is not alone in this mind set, and there are many who share in similar biblical interpretations in my close circle of influence - so I am treading on thin ice here. To further understand this teaching, here is a well written article offered by the Chrstian Research Group (<---click there to read) that explains these teachings (please pray for Godly wisdom before reading).

Although these arguements are compelling, they are biblically weak, and worse than that, they are counter-productive to the Spirit of love, and to building unity in the body of Christ. The Apostles and Prophets have many roles (and burdens to bear). We not only need to recognize these people, but we are commanded to refer to prophets as prophets, respecting their ministry role (notice I didn't say office) in the body of Christ. So, how much more so, should we also do this for Apostles?

The burden is upon us to recognize those who are called into these roles, and speak these roles into their lives and into their ministries as a body of beleivers. Do we do this? Only if we want someone to put a straight jacket on us! We have become shy, keeping our faith to ourselves, not bucking the system, and not encouraging those who have been called to love and to minister into the leadership of our body.

My hope is that you will remain open to the notion that these ministries are of today. I see revival - I can almost taste it. But will God bring revival to those who reject the prophets and apostles of our day? Do we really want to count on God to meet us, as he did Paul, while persecuting the church?

Blessings!
- Dave