What is new apostolic reformation

The New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) is a movement within Christianity that emphasizes the restoration of the fivefold ministry, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, as described in Ephesians 4:11-12. The movement gained popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s, particularly in the United States.

The NAR movement is characterized by several key beliefs and practices:

  1. Restoration of the fivefold ministry: The movement emphasizes the importance of restoring the fivefold ministry, which is seen as a key aspect of the early Christian church. Apostles and prophets are seen as having a special role in guiding and directing the church.
  2. Apostolic and prophetic authority: NAR leaders believe that apostles and prophets have a unique authority and gift to guide the church and bring new revelation from God.
  3. Charismatic and Pentecostal influences: The movement is heavily influenced by charismatic and Pentecostal Christianity, emphasizing the importance of spiritual gifts, such as speaking in tongues, healing, and prophecy.
  4. Emphasis on spiritual warfare: NAR leaders often emphasize the importance of spiritual warfare and the need for believers to be equipped to resist Satan's attacks.
  5. Focus on evangelism and missions: The movement places a strong emphasis on evangelism and missions, with a focus on reaching the unreached and unchurched.

Some of the key figures associated with the NAR movement include:

  1. C. Peter Wagner: A prominent Pentecostal minister and theologian who is often credited with coining the term "New Apostolic Reformation."
  2. Bill Johnson: A pastor and author who is known for his teachings on the importance of apostles and prophets in the modern church.
  3. Todd Bentley: A Canadian pastor and evangelist who gained international attention for his healing ministry and his association with the NAR movement.
  4. Rick Joyner: A pastor and author who is known for his teachings on spiritual warfare and his association with the NAR movement.

The NAR movement has been the subject of controversy and criticism from some Christian leaders and denominations, who have raised concerns about its teachings on apostolic and prophetic authority, its emphasis on spiritual warfare, and its perceived lack of accountability and biblical grounding.

Some of the criticisms leveled against the NAR movement include:

  1. Lack of biblical grounding: Critics argue that the NAR movement's teachings are not adequately supported by Scripture and are often based on personal experiences and interpretations.
  2. Exaggerated claims: Critics argue that NAR leaders often make exaggerated claims about their ministries and the results of their prayers and actions.
  3. Lack of accountability: Critics argue that the NAR movement's emphasis on apostolic and prophetic authority can lead to a lack of accountability and a tendency towards authoritarianism.
  4. Spiritual abuse: Critics argue that the NAR movement's teachings on spiritual warfare and the importance of submitting to apostolic and prophetic authority can lead to spiritual abuse and manipulation.

It's worth noting that not all Christians who identify with the NAR movement hold to all of its teachings, and some may be critical of certain aspects of the movement. Ultimately, the validity and accuracy of the NAR movement's teachings and practices must be evaluated in light of Scripture and the teachings of the early Christian church.