Biblical Order, Apostolic Calling, and the Witness of the Early Church

In today’s church culture, we preach covenant, but we rarely live it.

By Bishop Martin Wilson

By Bishop Martin Wilson 

At Exalted Word Ministries, we’ve made a decision—we are not waiting for growth. We are preparing for it, positioning for it, and moving toward it on purpose.

In ministry, insecurity and pride can become intertwined, affecting leaders' ability to genuinely support their congregation. Insecure pastors often struggle to acknowledge others' successes, viewing them as threats to their own authority[2]. This prideful insecurity leads to a lack of genuine encouragement and empowerment of others, hindering the growth of both individuals and the community[2]. Furthermore, an inability to admit mistakes or accept criticism stunts spiritual growth and fosters an environment of distrust[2].

After speaking with a few of the participants that were in the audience during our panel discussion today, And hearing some of their discomfort, I saw the need for me, as the organizer of the discussion and President of the Sacred College, to offer an apology and, with that apology, clarity on behalf of the college.

Grace is essential for building the Lord’s Church, as it empowers and equips believers for their divine purpose. Grace is not just unmerited favor; it is God’s empowering presence, enabling us to fulfill His will. It is broader than we often realize, extending beyond forgiveness to include the strength, wisdom, and authority needed to advance the Kingdom and serve effectively in our callings.

Matthew 23:5-7 (NIV) “Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.”

There is often some confusion surrounding the attire worn by Episcopal leaders in various Christian denominations. Episcopal garments carry rich symbolic meanings and are used not only in the Catholic Church but also in Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, and Apostolic churches, among others. These garments are used to honor God and uphold the responsibilities of church leaders, representing centuries of Christian tradition. Let’s explore the significance of each piece of Episcopal attire and how it reflects the role and calling of church leaders.

As leaders in the Church, we must understand not only the spiritual but also the emotional and mental aspects of our lives. Emotions play a significant role in how we think, act, and even in how we serve God. The subconscious mind, which governs many of our actions and reactions, speaks the language of emotions. It is crucial to understand this, as the subconscious mind can be our greatest ally or our greatest foe.

In today's fast-paced and often challenging world, finding faith in God can be a source of immense strength and encouragement, especially for Black men who face unique societal pressures and stereotypes. This article aims to inspire Black men to seek a deeper relationship with God and find solace and empowerment through their faith.