Waterfront Christian Church
building lives : transforming communities
Apostolic Church Australia
Denominational History
Within the Pentecostal movement, there are several denominations which have arisen and the Apostolic Church is one of these. It began as an outcome of the Welsh Revival in 1904-5 and now has churches in over 30 countries. The Apostolic Church in Australia began in 1930.
In some ways the Apostolic Church isn't different at all from other denominations. It holds to all the early creeds of historic Christianity and is in perfect harmony with orthodox Christian doctrine. It is also in agreement with most other Pentecostal Churches.
Like them, it believes worship should be vibrant, and that God's supernatural power is available for all Christians for daily living. The major area of difference is in organisation. The Apostolic Church has attempted to follow what they see as the Biblical pattern of church government as recorded in the book of Acts.
Accordingly, the church is governed by a Council of senior ministers, who are responsible for the continued well-being and growth of the people and churches in the denomination. This has meant that the church has been able to do things as a united national body, such as sending out missionaries to such diverse places as Vanuatu, USA and Papua New Guinea, and at the same time encouraging each local congregation to become fully involved in its own local community.
Local Government
Assemblies operate more or less autonomously under the oversight of a superintendent minister who is normally an Apostle with responsibility for an area (a group of assemblies).
Pastors are responsible for their assemblies and normally govern with an oversight group. The composition of this local oversight group may vary from place to place, but includes Elders and Deacons where these are appointed.
Congregational or annual general meetings are not held.
Ascension Ministries
A distinctive of the Apostolic Church is the open recognition of the ministry gifts given by our Lord Jesus Christ to the church, and listed in Ephesians 4:11.
While much of the body of Christ now recognises that Apostles and Prophets exist today, the Apostolic Church gives men and women the title of the office and calling which it believes is upon the person. This is not based on any academic qualification, but is simply recognising those whom Christ has called.
The Apostleship operates as a collegiate ministry for the governing of the church and sets policies and guidelines. Prophets work in conjunction with Apostles to bring revelation and confirmation.
Pastoral tenure is by appointment. Pastors are subject to transfer at the direction of the church council, but the pastor is consulted about such moves.
The present attitude favours long term pastoral tenure in most situations.
Lifestyle
The Apostolic Church believes that the present day church should closely resemble the New Testament Church as found in Acts with Acts 2:42 being a concise statement of that lifestyle.
The gifting's of members are to be recognised, developed and released for ministry wherever possible in accordance with Ephesians 4:12-13.
