May 27, 2012 Sermon Notes

Relationships Unlocked: The Antioch Starting Five - Acts 11:19-30

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Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Shepherds, Teachers

Ephesians 4:11-13 & Acts 11:19-30

APOSTLES extend the gospel. As the “sent ones,” they ensure that the faith is transmitted from one context to another and from one generation to the next. They are always thinking about the future, bridging barriers, establishing the church in new contexts, developing leaders, networking trans-locally.

PROPHETS know God’s will. They are particularly attuned to God and his truth for today. They bring correction and challenge the dominant assumptions we inherit from the culture. They insist that the community obey what God has commanded. They question the status quo.

EVANGELISTS recruit. These infectious communicators of the gospel message recruit others to the cause. They call for a personal response to God’s redemption in Christ, and also draw believers to engage the wider mission, growing the church.

SHEPHERDS nurture and protect. Caregivers of the community, they focus on the protection and spiritual maturity of God’s flock, cultivating a loving and spiritually mature network of relationships, making and developing disciples.

TEACHERS understand and explain. Communicators of God’s truth and wisdom, they help others remain biblically grounded to better discern God’s will, guiding others toward wisdom, helping the community remain faithful to Christ’s word, and constructing a transferable doctrine.

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Descriptions and diagram from The Forgotten Ways. For more information check out Alan Hirsch’s book, The Forgotten Ways from Brazos Press (2009) or to take an online APEST assessment at the website listed. Assessment costs $10.