A Collective Leadership Statement on the ‘New Apostolic Reformation’ (NAR) and ‘Christian Nationalism’ by Dr Michael Brown for Ask Dr Brown
In light of the controversy surrounding the terms “New Apostolic Reformation” (NAR) and “Christian Nationalism,” a group of Christian leaders is issuing this statement to give our own perspective on these issues and terms.
We invite other like-minded leaders to add their names to this statement.
(For signing details, see the end of the statement.)
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WE AFFIRM the importance of Ephesians 4:11 ministries for the Church today and believe that such ministry functions have existed throughout Church history, even if not described in these exact terms.
WE AFFIRM that contemporary apostolic and prophetic ministries are important for the well-being and mission of the Church, just as evangelistic, pastoral, and teaching ministries are important.
- By “apostolic,” we are referring to visionary leaders who are missional, fathering, and pioneering, such as church planters, networkers, or movement leaders, often marked by their focus on gospel expansion beyond one local region. Such leaders are identified by their function, whether or not they use the term apostolic and whether or not they are Pentecostal or charismatic.
- By “prophetic,” we are referring to Church leaders who understand and declare the mind of God for specific times and seasons, helping the Lord’s people respond biblically. Such leaders are identified by their function, whether or not they use the term prophetic and whether or not they are Pentecostal or charismatic.
WE REJECT the belief that contemporary apostles carry the same authority as did the original Twelve Apostles.
WE REJECT the belief that contemporary prophets have the exact same function or carry the exact same authority as did Old Testament prophets. (For more details on prophetic ministry, see here.)
WE REJECT the belief that every church must be submitted to apostles and prophets to be in right order before the Lord.
WE FURTHER OPPOSE the possible abuse of ecclesial titles that manifests itself in self-proclaimed apostles and prophets claiming territorial authority over pastors in a community, city, or nation.
