24-283 Answering the Call: The Journey of an Apostle’s Obedience

In this episode, we explore the profound journey of obedience that accompanies the call to apostleship, inspired by Romans 1:5. We'll discuss the essential nature of obedience in the apostolic calling, the challenges and rewards that come with it, and the impact of such a calling on both personal and community levels.

Our springboard for today’s discussion is: Romans 1:5: "Through him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith for his name’s sake."

This verse not only highlights the grace given for apostleship but also underscores the obedience required to fulfill this high calling.

Apostleship is a calling that demands a profound level of obedience and faith. Those who are called to be apostles are often required to navigate challenging paths that lead to significant spiritual growth and kingdom expansion.

The Importance of Obedience in Apostolic Calling:

1. Divine Commissioning: Apostles are often commissioned for specific tasks that require absolute dedication and commitment to God’s directives, similar to biblical figures like Paul who were called to spread the gospel across diverse cultures.

2. Global Mission: The obedience of apostles has far-reaching effects, often impacting the spiritual life of communities and shaping the church's global mission.

Challenges and Rewards of Apostolic Calling:

• Challenges: Apostles may face misunderstandings, intense spiritual warfare, and the need to sacrifice personal comfort for the sake of their mission. They often work in environments resistant to change or hostile to the gospel.

• Rewards: Despite the challenges, the rewards include profound spiritual fulfillment, the joy of seeing lives transformed, and the establishment of lasting Christian communities.

Practical Steps for Walking in Faithful Obedience to Apostolic Calling:

• Spiritual Preparation: Engage deeply with Scripture, maintain a robust prayer life, and seek regular fellowship with other believers to fortify your spiritual foundation.

• Mentorship: Seek mentorship from experienced apostles or church leaders who can provide guidance, wisdom, and support as you navigate your calling.

• Community Engagement: Begin serving in your local church or community in capacities that align with your calling, whether it's teaching, evangelizing, or leading small groups, to start practicing the skills you will need as an apostle.

Conclusion

Answering the call to apostleship is a journey marked by profound obedience and faith. For those who accept this calling, the path is rigorous but immensely rewarding, filled with opportunities to witness God's power and grace in action.

A Question of the Day: If you feel called to apostolic ministry, what are some immediate steps you can take to align your life more closely with this calling?

Growth Challenge: Identify one area in your life where you need to grow to fulfill your apostolic calling more effectively. Commit to taking specific, measurable steps over the next month to develop in this area, such as increasing your knowledge of the Bible, enhancing your leadership skills, or deepening your prayer life.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for the call to apostleship and the grace You provide to walk this path. Strengthen us in our obedience, increase our faith, and help us to fulfill Your commission with courage and integrity. May we be instruments of Your will, leading others to the obedience that comes from faith. Amen.

As we close, remember that the call to be an apostle is a high and holy calling, requiring a lifetime of devotion and obedience. Embrace your calling, step forward in faith, and let God lead you to the places He has prepared for you. Let’s get to work.