Buzz words

There are a lot of buzz words nowadays, especially in the circles i run around in. words like apostolic and prophetic and community, words like that. But what do they mean?

It started off with a resurgence of the 'offices' of that of teaching, and then pastoral, then evangelism, the prophetic and apostolic. And little by little, different ideas have been making a comeback. Let me continue by saying that i whole heartedly am all about the apostolic and prophetic. I'm all about that ideas and offices being restored, in true Biblical understanding. I am not for, however, the exploitation of that. many people who claim to be 'apostolic' and 'prophetic' just seem to be exploiting it for the money. Having big ministries and having all sorts of demands for their giftings and whatnot. I do believe that there are people out there who truly carry these giftings and callings on their lives. But i don't believe in just using for the title. Over the past few decades, portions of what has come to be known as the "5-Fold Ministry" (Eph. 4:11) have been making a come back.

To date, i don't like it when someone just uses it as a title or a job. I've heard stories of where well known individuals demand money to go and speak, rather than asking the Holy Spirit and being 'led of the Spirit', they're motivated more by the money. That's sick. Those type of people i have little tolerance for.

So what does it mean to be apostolic? Merriam-Webster Online dictionary explains it with one definition of mentioning of spiritual authority. I cringe when i hear that people who are so-called apostles make everyone do their work for them. That's not what Jesus taught. He washed his disciples feet. He laid down his life for them, and us. He taught leadership is servanthood. I know that in the Corinthians, Paul describes his position as scum of the earth. He compared it to that of being at the end of the procession, led to a slaughter. Nowadays, the so-called 'apostles' would demand the nicest rooms and cars and all the best stuff, to be fully recognized.

Don't get me wrong: i'm all for that we as children of God be taken care of. but not at the expense of others. not for the exploitation of money, greed and power. Leadership in the Body of Christ means servant hood. Not 'lets see who i can get to do what for me..' rather it should be 'what can i do to see you succeed.'

One main thing that i notice in these verses is the fact that these giftings are to be meant to build up the body of Christ. They're meant for servant hood.