The Prime Apostolic Directive

In the flurry of activity and communication attempting to define the apostolic the focus generally tends to be on certain aspects such as the grace to lead, establish, set in order, or demonstrate the power of the Spirit: all of which are legitimate characteristics. But at the core of the apostolic grace and commission is something much more simple, profound and divine.

Consider the following verses.

“For I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy; for I betrothed you to one husband, so that to Christ I might present you as a pure virgin. But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity toward Christ.” 2 Cor. 11:3-4

“And when I came to you, brethren, I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testimony of God. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” 1 Cor. 2:1-2

“My little children, for whom I am again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you!” Gal. 4:19

And again Paul writes to the believers in Colossae concerning the glory of the mystery which has been hidden for ages but has now been revealed to the saints: Christ in Us, the hope of glory…

Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.” Col. 1:28

The fundamental marking of a true apostolic grace is the resolute, relentless pursuit of the revelation of Jesus Christ, and the overwhelming desire to see everyone transformed into His image. From the beginning, man was created after the image and likeness of God. For those born after the natural Adam this meant body, soul and spirit – of which we still partake, for we too were once in Adam. But for those born after the Last Adam, we have been created anew after the resurrected image of Christ! This is in accordance with the eternal purpose of God which is to reveal Himself as Christ, through the Church, to all of creation. Oh how great is this mystery, and how sad that many claiming apostleship are focused on something other than Christ Himself!

I once attended a meeting identified as being apostolic and prophetic and was greatly disheartened that in the span of over two hours the name of Jesus was scarcely mentioned – maybe three times. Through all the prophecies and words given, much was said about the kingdom but almost nothing about the King. Indeed, much was said about God’s purpose – yet Christ, the central figure in the purpose of God, was essentially devoid of mention. I do not say this to discredit, but to make the point that the gospel of the Kingdom is all about the King – Jesus Christ! And if leaders don’t get that right then followers develop a warped understanding of God and His purpose, leading to excess and error even in the most sincere of saints.

Brethren, I am compelled to make this clear as Paul also did in 2 Cor. 11 and John in his first epistle. Many will make claims and take titles but their motives are profane and their hearts lifted up.

“For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ.” 2 Cor. 11:13

“They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.” 1 Jn. 2:19

To make matters worse, many believers are so moved by charismatic leadership, great oratory, and the ability to craft a charged “spiritual” environment they overlook the fundamentals of character, righteousness and faithfulness to the central message of Christ.

Beloved, the true apostolic commission is a stewardship of the mystery of Christ. Every aspect of a true apostolic grace will exalt Jesus, express Jesus, draw all attention to Jesus and seek to make Jesus known above all else. In your discerning, see to it that you are not led astray by outward appearance and charisma, but follow after those who live the prime directive of God – the revelation of Jesus Christ!