Brief Answer

The New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) is a controversial movement within some branches of Christianity that emphasizes the restoration of the offices of apostles and prophets, a focus on signs and wonders, and an expectation of societal transformation through Christian dominion. While proponents see it as a revival of biblical truths, critics warn against its potential for theological error and its deviation from historic evangelical doctrine.

Understanding the New Apostolic Reformation from a Biblical Perspective

The NAR claims to revive biblical leadership structures, emphasizing apostles and prophets as crucial for the modern church. However, this interpretation raises significant concerns:

• Biblical Leadership: The Bible recognizes the roles of apostles and prophets in the early church (Ephesians 4:11), but these roles were foundational for the church’s establishment (Ephesians 2:20). Traditional evangelical understanding views apostleship as tied to the original witnesses of Christ’s resurrection (Acts 1:21-22).
• Signs and Wonders: While Scripture affirms miracles (Hebrews 2:4), it cautions against overemphasizing them (Matthew 7:22-23). Authentic faith is rooted in God’s Word, not in extraordinary experiences alone.
• Dominion Theology: The NAR often teaches that Christians must take over societal structures to establish God’s kingdom. However, Jesus taught that His kingdom is “not of this world” (John 18:36) and emphasized spiritual transformation over political control.

Faithful discernment requires weighing these teachings against Scripture.

Historical Context

The NAR emerged in the late 20th century as a movement distinct from mainstream Pentecostal and charismatic traditions:

• Roots in the Charismatic Movement: NAR teachings build on charismatic emphases, such as the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
• Leadership Influence: Figures like C. Peter Wagner popularized the idea of modern apostles and prophets leading a global Christian revival.
• Growth: The movement has grown internationally, often blending with local cultures and expressions of Christianity.

While the movement seeks to energize the church, its distinct doctrines have sparked widespread debate.

Practical Implications

The NAR’s teachings can impact individuals and churches in various ways:

• Positive Aspects:
  • Renewed focus on spiritual gifts and the Holy Spirit’s power.
  • Emphasis on prayer, worship, and revival.
• Challenges:
  • Overemphasis on leaders with apostolic or prophetic titles can create spiritual hierarchies.
  • Potential for doctrinal confusion or deviation from Scripture.
  • Risk of prioritizing cultural or political agendas over the gospel message.

Believers are called to test all teachings against God’s Word (1 Thessalonians 5:21).

Theological Depth and Insight

Examining the NAR’s theology reveals areas for careful reflection:

• Authority of Scripture: Scripture alone is the ultimate authority (2 Timothy 3:16). Claims of modern-day apostles and prophets must not contradict or supersede the Bible.
• Role of the Church: The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) focuses on making disciples, not necessarily transforming societal structures.
• Gifts of the Spirit: While the Holy Spirit empowers believers, spiritual gifts are given for edifying the body of Christ, not for self-promotion (1 Corinthians 12:7).

Theological depth comes from aligning teaching with the whole counsel of God.

Broader Biblical Themes

The Bible’s overarching themes provide clarity:

• Christ’s Kingdom: The kingdom of God grows through the gospel’s power, not human dominion (Romans 1:16).
• Unity in the Body: True spiritual leadership builds up the church in humility and love (Ephesians 4:12-13).
• Discernment: Jesus warned about false prophets and urged His followers to discern truth by their fruits (Matthew 7:15-20).

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit guides believers into truth and empowers the church:

• Authentic Work of the Spirit: The Spirit’s work aligns with Scripture and glorifies Christ (John 16:13-14).
• Spiritual Gifts: The Spirit distributes gifts to build unity and maturity in the church (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).
• Discernment: Believers must rely on the Spirit to test teachings and avoid deception (1 John 4:1).

Relevance for Today’s Christian

Christians today can approach the NAR with wisdom and grace:

• Focus on the Gospel: Our primary mission is to share the gospel and disciple others.
• Biblical Discernment: Grounded in Scripture, believers can evaluate teachings and practices thoughtfully.
• Humble Leadership: Church leaders should model servant-hearted humility, reflecting Christ’s example (Mark 10:45).

Connection to Jesus Christ and God’s Love

Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the church (Ephesians 2:20). His life, death, and resurrection are sufficient for salvation and spiritual growth. The NAR’s emphasis on modern apostles and prophets must never overshadow the supremacy of Christ and His finished work on the cross.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

• How do you evaluate teachings or movements to ensure they align with Scripture?
• What does servant-hearted leadership look like in your church or community?
• How can you stay focused on the gospel while engaging with broader cultural or spiritual issues?
• How can the Holy Spirit guide you in discerning truth from error?

The New Apostolic Reformation invites both curiosity and caution. By grounding our faith in Scripture and focusing on Jesus Christ, we can navigate these teachings with wisdom and grace, always pointing back to the truth of God’s Word and the transformative power of the gospel.