Onward and Upward . . . Together!

Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Shepherds, Teachers (APEST) – these designations refer to leaders given to the church by Christ. This is not an exhaustive list of all the spiritual gifts given to the full body of Christ. All believers (not just those mentioned here in Ephesians 4:11-13) are given spiritual gifts to serve and edify the church.

Diagram from Jon Ritner in Positively Irritating
CLARITY: Each role in APEST is a new covenant function, uniquely crafted by Christ to serve His Church.

A – Apostles
P – Prophets
E – Evangelists

THREE BASIC VIEWS OF APOSTLES AND PROPHETS
CESSATIONIST – This view proposes that the roles of both Apostles and Prophets ceased at the conclusion of the Apostolic Era.
SENT CHURCH/GATHERED CHURCH – This view proposes that the two roles still exist today, however, they are best utilized through the sent church (mission organizations, church planting movements, campus ministries, evangelistic ministries, etc.) as opposed to being utilized through the gathered church (local churches).
GATHERED CHURCH/SENT CHURCH – This view proposes that these two roles still exist today and need to be expressed through the gathered church (local church) first and also through the sent church.

EVANGELISTS – Evangelists are gifted bridge builders and are adept at inviting and attracting people through Gospel witness to find their way to Christ and his Body. Evangelists offer a catalytic presence to the local church regarding energizing efforts to reach lost people for Christ.

PROPHETS – This gifting is also mentioned in both Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12. Prophets are gifted by Christ through His Spirit to strengthen, encourage, comfort, and edify the church. They provide both a vertical expression (calling for repentance and right living before God) and a horizontal expression (addressing ethics, justice, oppression).

APOSTLES – The Greek word means “one who is sent.” Thus, apostles are often characterized by a pioneering faith, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a certain restlessness with the status quo. Apostles are committed to the fulfillment of Christ’s commission. Apostles are attuned to the DNA of the church and work to create structures that support expansion and growth.

COMPETENCY OF CHRIST AND HIS BODY
Jesus was completely competent as Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Shepherd, and Teacher. He has gifted His Body to be competent in each function . . . together!