Apostolic Arrogance
A little bit of personality goes a long way. We had someone call into our ministry some time back to purchase one of my books. When the lovely lady receptionist (my daughter) suggested one of our classes to help out, the person said, “Ok I just want the book. I looked at your courses and I am too advanced for them. They are below me.”
How embarrassing would it have been for that person to know that #1 that was my daughter on the phone and #2 that their message was relayed to me personally. Further repercussions? In one sentence they personally insulted our student body of incredible leaders, pastors and apostles.
Now, we all have a little pride. Every single one of us have things that we boast in and feel good about.
But guys… there is just a way to express your confidence without… well… sounding like a jerk. (Can I can “jerk” on an apostolic post?!) Truth is though, how many times have we come across like that? In the world of ministry connections and being used of the Lord in many circles, how many doors have you shut by being offensive?
Philippians 1:9-10 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ,
As apostles we are held to a higher standard. Firstly we are called to check our own offense at the door. We have no room to get offended by everything everyone else does! Secondly we are responsible for causing offense also. Now now… bare with me here. YES… I know that you will naturally offend others with your passion.
Jesus offended the Pharisees at every turn. Causing offense happens in this line of call. However, just because offense is part of the process, does it mean we go out of our way to be nasty? Can we not peel back the arrogance a tad and love God’s people?
When I see someone with an unhinged tongue, pulling people apart in the name of “Freedom for God’s people” I question their maturity. I am the first person to say things straight… but does that also mean saying things nasty? How often do we cross that line and then wonder why doors slam shut? Relationships are torn apart and hearts are broken.
As Apostles called to unite the Church and bring Her to maturity, I think we can do a lot more in curbing what we call “passion” and use some wisdom to get our message across. Oh yes, there are times to call out those “whitewashed tombs” but when Jesus reached out to the little children and He hung out with Lazarus, you do not hear Him saying that He was too far above them to share a meal.
Being effective as apostles, means getting off our high tower and “mingling” with the people of God. It means getting off from behind the pulpit and being REAL! It means being an influence in the pews and not just from the platform.
The Church has suffered hard and long at the hand of dictators who separated themselves. Men and women who lead from afar and leave destruction in their wake. I crave a Church that moves forward in unity. I crave a Bride that is united in their love of the Lord Jesus. Accomplishing this is going to take an apostolic work. It requires that we get out of the way and establish a blueprint originated from heaven and not pride that is established within.
Ready to have a real impact? Then tone down the pride and walk in true power. The power of compassion and yes… a little bit of personality too. I have to say it… if you want the doors to open and stay open, people have to like you. Apostle or no, your anointing only takes you so far and then people have to decide whether or not they want your influence.
Come guys… lets change the Church from within! I am game… how about you?
Love and Blessings
