Examination for Ordination – The New Life Apostolic Church of Jesus Inc

Ordination Examination for Elders
Titus 1 Mandate: Ordaining Elders in Every City

New Life Apostolic Church Of Jesus, Inc.

Introduction

Welcome to the Ordination Examination for prospective elders of the New Life Apostolic Church of Jesus, Inc. This comprehensive examination is structured to affirm your readiness and capability to undertake the responsibilities and spiritual leadership required of an elder within our church. As you prepare to serve under the Titus 1 Mandate, this test will cover essential areas of knowledge and practical skills across four key categories:

Theological Competence and Bible Content:This section tests your understanding of key doctrinal beliefs, scriptural interpretations, and theological principles foundational to our Oneness Apostolic faith.
Worship and Sacraments:Here, we evaluate your knowledge and understanding of the significance and proper administration of sacraments, as well as your ability to lead and participate in worship according to our church’s traditions and practices.
Church Protocol and Pastoral Care:This part of the exam focuses on your preparedness to manage church dynamics, offer pastoral care, and handle various administrative and relational tasks within the church community.
Leadership in Church Administration:This section assesses your leadership skills, particularly in church governance, strategic planning, conflict resolution, and stewardship, ensuring you are equipped to uphold and advance the mission of our church.

This examination is designed to ensure that all candidates are well-prepared to uphold the doctrines, values, and responsibilities of the New Life Apostolic Church of Jesus, Inc., and are ready to lead and shepherd the congregation with integrity, wisdom, and faithfulness. We pray that your preparation for this examination will also be a time of spiritual growth and reaffirmation of your calling to serve God’s people.

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Summary: Theological Competence and Bible Content

This series of questions and answers delves into the depths of theological knowledge and scriptural understanding essential for candidates preparing for ordination within the Apostolic Oneness Pentecostal context. Tailored specifically for the "Titus 1 Mandate" at the New Life Apostolic Church of Jesus, Inc., this section ensures that individuals are thoroughly equipped in the fundamental doctrines and biblical insights crucial for effective ministry and leadership in the church.

1. What is the Oneness doctrine in Apostolic theology? A) Belief in the Trinity B) Belief in one God manifesting as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit C) Belief in three separate gods D) None of the above

2. According to Acts 2:38, what must one do to be saved? A) Believe in Jesus B) Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins C) Attend church regularly D) Read the Bible daily

3. How does the Apostolic faith interpret the concept of speaking in tongues? A) As unnecessary for salvation B) As a gift only for the apostles C) As the initial sign of receiving the Holy Ghost D) As a modern invention

4. In Oneness theology, who is Jesus Christ? A) An inspired teacher B) The second person of the Trinity C) God manifested in the flesh D) A created being

5. What role does baptism play in salvation according to Oneness theology? A) It is merely symbolic B) It is necessary for salvation C) It is optional D) It is only for children

6. What does John 3:5 teach about the necessity of baptism? A) It is helpful but not necessary. B) It is a public declaration of faith. C) It is necessary to enter the kingdom of God. D) It is symbolic of personal cleanliness.

7. What is the significance of Jesus' name in Oneness Pentecostal theology during baptism? A) It is used as a traditional symbol. B) It is mentioned as a part of a longer liturgical prayer. C) It is essential for the act to be valid. D) It is interchangeable with titles like Father or Holy Spirit.

8. What is the significance of anointing oil in Apostolic services? A) It is used primarily for consecrating buildings. B) It is used as a symbol of the Holy Spirit during prayer for healing and dedication. C) It is only used during baptism. D) It has no significant role in current practices.

9. In Apostolic Pentecostal belief, how essential is the role of prayer in worship services? A) It is secondary to preaching. B) It is considered the most crucial part of the service. C) It is optional and used sparingly. D) It is only for opening and closing the service.

10. What role do hymns, and spiritual songs play in Apostolic worship? A) They are considered outdated and rarely used. B) They are used to enhance the emotional atmosphere. C) They play a critical role in teaching and reinforcing doctrine. D) They are only performed by trained choirs.

11. How is the public reading of Scripture treated in Apostolic worship services? A) As an occasional addition to the service. B) As a fundamental and regular part of worship. C) As unnecessary and not typically included. D) As only suitable for special occasions.

12. What is the purpose of testimonies during worship services? A) To provide entertainment. B) To give members a chance to share personal stories of God’s intervention. C) To take up time if the service is running short. D) To criticize or judge others’ lifestyles.

13. How important is corporate confession in Apostolic services? A) It is not practiced. B) It is vital for communal spiritual health and repentance. C) It is only done once a year. D) It is considered too private to be included in public worship.

14. What is the view on spontaneous worship and expressions of faith during services? A) They are discouraged as they may disrupt the service. B) They are welcomed as genuine expressions of worship. C) They are regulated and must be pre-approved. D) They are considered inappropriate.

15. What is the significance of communion in Oneness Pentecostal theology? A) It is a mere remembrance with no spiritual effect. B) It is a sacrament that commemorates Christ’s sacrifice and is a means of grace. C) It is only for those who have been baptized. D) It is practiced annually as a church tradition.

16. What role does fasting play in preparation for major worship events or sacraments? A) It is generally discouraged as it might distract from the events. B) It is recommended as a means of spiritual preparation and consecration. C) It is mandated for all members before participating. D) It is not considered relevant to worship preparation.

17. How are children involved in Apostolic worship services? A) They are encouraged to participate in all aspects of the service. B) They are only observers and do not participate. C) They have separate services tailored to their understanding. D) They lead certain segments of the service.

18. How is the altar call understood and practiced in Apostolic Pentecostal churches? A) As an outdated practice. B) As a crucial moment for repentance, prayer, and spiritual decisions. C) As optional, depending on the sermon's topic. D) As a formal end to every service, regardless of context.

19. In Apostolic Pentecostal belief, how is silence used during worship? A) It is used for meditative and reflective moments, seeking to hear from God. B) It is rarely used as services are typically vibrant and loud. C) It is considered uncomfortable and avoided. D) It is only used when technical issues occur.

20. What is the theological importance of clapping and raising hands during Apostolic worship services? A) They are seen as mere physical expressions with no spiritual significance. B) They are expressions of joy and surrender to God, encouraging communal participation. C) They are required actions to show agreement with the preacher. D) They are prohibited as they distract from the solemnity of the service.

21. How is the sermon integrated into Apostolic worship services? A) It is the central element, intended for doctrinal instruction and spiritual encouragement. B) It is brief and secondary to musical worship. C) It is optional and not included in every service. D) It is primarily focused on financial stewardship.

22. What is the purpose of having a responsive reading in some Apostolic services? A) To engage the congregation actively in the liturgy. B) To fill time if the service is running short. C) As a traditional practice with no current significance. D) To test the congregation's biblical knowledge.

23. How are special services like revivals and prayer vigils viewed in Apostolic Pentecostal churches? A) As essential for spiritual renewal and community building. B) As unnecessary and too traditional. C) As occasional events with no particular importance. D) As primarily youth-oriented events.

24. What role do visual arts (like banners or stained glass) play in Apostolic worship services? 24. What role do visual arts (like banners or stained glass) play in Apostolic worship services? B) They are used moderately to enhance the worship atmosphere without becoming a distraction. C) They are central to the worship experience. D) They are used extensively in every service.

25. How is the concept of 'watch night' services perceived in the Apostolic Pentecostal tradition? A) As a time to watch and pray on New Year's Eve, reflecting on God's providence and seeking guidance for the coming year. B) As an outdated practice that no longer has relevance. C) As a social gathering without spiritual significance. D) As a mandatory event for all church members.

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Summary: Church Protocol and Pastoral Care

This segment of the examination features questions meticulously designed to assess the essential aspects of church protocol and pastoral care. It aims to ensure that pastors are well-equipped to navigate a wide range of situations within the church community, demonstrating wisdom, compassion, and effective leadership in their pastoral roles.

1. What is the appropriate response if a church member express doubts about their faith? A) Counsel them privately B) Publicly rebuke them C) Ignore their doubts D) Recommend they leave the church

2. How should a pastor handle conflicts between church members? A) Encourage them to resolve it among themselves B) Offer mediation and counsel C) Ignore the conflict D) Take sides based on who is more faithful

3. In pastoral counseling, confidentiality is: A) Optional B) Only for certain cases C) Mandatory D) Not important

4. What is a pastor’s role during a crisis in the community? A) Stay neutral B) Provide spiritual and practical support C) Leave it to community leaders D) Focus only on spiritual matters

5. What is the protocol for dealing with a church member who has been openly sinful? A) Immediate expulsion B) Seek repentance and offer restoration C) Publicly rebuke in front of the congregation D) Ignore unless it becomes a scandal

6. What is the role of a pastor in marital counseling within the church? A) To enforce church doctrine only. B) To facilitate communication and offer biblical guidance. C) To side with one member of the marriage. D) To avoid involvement in marital issues.

7. How should pastors approach the topic of mental health with their congregants? A) As a purely spiritual issue that prayer alone can resolve. B) As a combination of spiritual and practical health concerns, possibly referring to professional help. C) As irrelevant to their pastoral duties. D) As a taboo topic not to be discussed.

8. In cases of grievance against church leadership, what is the recommended protocol? A) Immediate dismissal of the leader in question. B) A formal review process that respects both the accuser and the accused. C) Public shaming of the accuser to deter false claims. D) Ignoring the complaints to maintain leadership stability.

9. How should a pastor respond to a congregant confessing a sin that is illegal? A) Encourage them to seek legal counsel and pray for forgiveness. B) Keep everything confidential, regardless of the law. C) Report the person to authorities immediately without their consent. D) Advise them to leave the church.

10. What is the recommended approach for integrating new members into the church community? A) Place them in leadership roles immediately to test their commitment. B) Have a structured orientation and gradual integration process. C) Ignore them until they prove their worth. D) Only allow them to participate in services, not community activities.

11. How should the church handle a situation where a member is struggling financially? A) Publicize their situation to encourage donations. B) Offer discreet support and counsel, possibly including financial assistance or resource guidance. C) Advise them to pray harder for financial blessings. D) Encourage them to find a better job before returning to church.

12. What is the appropriate way to address theological questions that challenge traditional church teachings? A) Dismiss them immediately to avoid confusion. B) Engage openly in biblical and theological discussion to explore the questions. C) Punish the questioner for causing disruption. D) Avoid such questions during public gatherings.

13. How should a pastor approach the issue of burnout both personally and within their team? A) Ignore it as a sign of spiritual weakness. B) Address it through proactive measures like rest, spiritual renewal, and possibly professional help. C) Recommend leaving ministry for those who feel burned out. D) Increase the workload to prove dedication.

14. When should a pastor decide to retire from full-time ministry? A) As soon as they reach a certain age. B) When they feel they are no longer effective in their pastoral duties. C) Never; a pastor should serve until death. D) Only if they are forced out by the congregation.

15. How should the church respond to cultural shifts that contradict biblical teachings? A) Change the church's teachings to align with culture. B) Reaffirm the church’s commitment to biblical truths while seeking to understand and respectfully engage with the culture. C) Completely isolate from society. D) Punish members who engage with modern cultural practices.

16. What is the pastoral approach to handling a congregation member who regularly disrupts services? A) Ban them from church. B) Speak privately with them to understand and address the underlying issues. C) Ignore the disruptions as addressing them could cause embarrassment. D) Encourage other members to confront the disruptor.

17. How should a church handle transitions in leadership, whether planned or sudden? A) Keep such transitions secret until the last possible moment. B) Communicate openly and prepare the congregation through a clear, planned process. C) Allow the new leaders to make all decisions abruptly to establish authority. D) Let members vote on all decisions to ensure everyone is involved.

18. What role does forgiveness play in pastoral care? A) It is encouraged but not necessary. B) It is central, emphasizing reconciliation and healing within the community. C) It is only applicable to minor offenses. D) It is considered only after punishment is administered.

19. How can pastors ensure they are accessible to their congregation without compromising their personal boundaries? A) Set strict office hours and adhere to them rigidly. B) Maintain open communication channels while clearly defining personal time and space. C) Be available 24/7, regardless of personal needs. D) Only communicate through formal appointments and refuse informal interactions.

20. What should be the approach if a member continually challenges church authority in a non-constructive manner? A) Immediately excommunicate the member to preserve authority. B) Engage in open dialogue to understand the concerns and address them biblically and respectfully. C) Ignore the challenges as acknowledging them could encourage others. D) Publicly debate the member to show the congregation the errors of their ways.

21. How should a pastor handle receiving gifts from congregation members to avoid any appearance of impropriety? A) Accept all gifts without disclosure to avoid offending any givers. B) Politely refuse all gifts. C) Accept gifts discreetly and report them according to church policy. D) Only accept gifts on special occasions.

22. In what manner should a church address the needs of the differently-abled within the congregation? A) Expect them to adapt to the standard church programs. B) Develop and implement accessibility measures to ensure full participation in church life. C) Separate them into specialized services exclusively. D) Offer support only if requested by the individual or family.

23. What is the appropriate pastoral response to national or local tragedies affecting the community? A) Focus solely on spiritual explanations and avoid discussing the emotional impacts. B) Provide a balanced approach that includes pastoral care, theological reflection, and practical support. C) Disregard discussing such events to maintain a focus on spiritual growth. D) Encourage the congregation to only pray privately and not address it in services.

24. How should the church handle theological or moral disputes between congregation members? A) Side with the most theologically educated member. B) Foster a respectful dialogue where different perspectives can be expressed and addressed through scripture and prayer. C) Allow disputes to resolve themselves without intervention. D) Ban discussions on controversial topics.

25. What approach should pastors take when a congregation member comes forward with a critique of the pastor's own sermons or teachings? A) Dismiss the critique to maintain authority. B) Consider the feedback thoughtfully and engage in a constructive conversation to understand and address any valid concerns. C) Punish the member for disrespect. D) Ignore the feedback as it might undermine pastoral authority.

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Summary: Leadership in Church Administration

This collection of questions spans a broad spectrum of practical and theological issues, tailored to comprehensively prepare ministers for the multifaceted responsibilities and challenges of church leadership. Specifically aligned with the "Titus 1 Mandate" for ordaining elders in every city, this section ensures candidates are thoroughly equipped to manage and lead effectively within the church's administrative framework.

1. What is a crucial skill for church leaders when dealing with finances? A) Investing wisely B) Transparency C) Maximizing profits D) Secrecy

2. How should a church leader handle dissent within the leadership team? A) Suppress dissenting opinions B) Encourage open discussion and seek consensus C) Ignore dissenting voices D) Only allow discussions in private

3. What is an essential attribute for leaders when implementing new church programs? A) Authoritarianism B) Flexibility and adaptability C) Rigidity D) Indifference

4. How important is it for a church leader to engage with the wider community? A) Not important; focus should be on the congregation only B) Somewhat important when there are benefits for the church C) Essential to the church’s mission and outreach D) Only necessary during special events

5. What role does strategic planning play in church administration? A) It is unnecessary if the church is successful B) It’s only for large churches C) It is crucial for setting goals and achieving the church's vision D) It should be done sporadically

6. When should church leaders consider revising their strategic plans? A) Only when there is a crisis B) Never; plans should remain constant C) Periodically, to adjust to changing circumstances D) Only when there is a change in leadership

7. What is the best approach for dealing with financial shortages in the church? A) Cut all outreach programs B) Increase mandatory tithing percentages C) Conduct a transparent review and seek congregational input D) Borrow without informing the congregation

8. How should a church leader respond when a staff member or volunteer fails to meet expectations? A) Immediate dismissal B) Offer training and support to improve performance C) Publicly criticize the individual D) Ignore the issue as long as possible

9. What is an effective way to encourage volunteerism in the church? A) Compulsory volunteering requirements B) Offering incentives and recognition C) Publicly shaming those who do not volunteer D) Limiting volunteer opportunities to a select few

10. In church leadership, how should decisions be made regarding major doctrinal changes? A) Solely by the senior pastor B) Through a democratic process involving all members C) By consulting with senior leadership and theological experts D) Randomly or impulsively

11. What is the most effective method for church leaders to manage conflicts of interest? A) Ignore them as they are inevitable B) Address them openly and set clear policies C) Allow individuals to resolve their own conflicts of interest D) Only address conflicts that become public

12. How crucial is succession planning in church leadership? A) Not necessary B) Optional but recommended C) Critical for ensuring the future stability of the church D) Only necessary for large churches

13. What is the role of feedback from congregation members in church administration? A) Unimportant B) Useful but not necessary C) Critical for continuous improvement and engagement D) Only necessary if it is positive

14. How should church leaders approach the adoption of new technology in church operations? A) Resist change to maintain tradition B) Adopt all new technologies immediately C) Carefully evaluate benefits and drawbacks before implementation D) Only adopt technology if other churches do so

15. What is an essential quality for maintaining harmony among church staff and volunteers? A) Strictness and firm boundaries B) Openness and effective communication C) Complete autonomy in their roles D) Isolation from other staff and departments

16. What should be the primary focus when training new leaders within the church? A) Ensuring they follow exactly in the footsteps of previous leaders B) Focusing solely on administrative skills C) Developing a deep understanding of the church's vision and theological stance D) Training them to avoid interacting with the congregation

17. How can church leaders effectively manage multiple church sites or services? A) By centralizing all decision-making B) Delegating responsibilities and empowering local leaders C) Ignoring differences between sites D) Focusing only on the main site

18. In dealing with the media, how should church leaders proceed? A) Avoid all media contact B) Provide open and honest communication C) Only interact with media through legal advisors D) Use media only for promotional purposes

19. How should a church leader approach the topic of fundraising within the congregation? A) Only in times of financial crisis B) As a regular part of stewardship teaching C) By compelling members to give specific amounts D) By being secretive about the church’s financial needs

20. What is an effective way for church leaders to foster a culture of inclusivity within the congregation? A) Promote homogeneity in worship styles and traditions B) Encourage diverse expressions of faith and worship C) Limit leadership roles to a specific demographic D) Discourage discussions about cultural differences

21. How should church leaders handle theological disagreements within the congregation? A) Suppress alternative viewpoints B) Encourage open dialogue and education C) Only allow discussions led by the pastor D) Resolve them based on majority votes

22. What is the best approach to maintaining church property and facilities? A) Minimal upkeep to save funds B) Regular maintenance and proactive upgrades C) Only update facilities when visibly deteriorated D) Rely on volunteer efforts without professional help

23. How should church leaders approach personal and professional development? A) It is unnecessary after reaching leadership B) Regularly engage in theological education and leadership training C) Only focus on spiritual development D) Professional development is unnecessary for spiritual leaders

24. What is the role of prayer in church administration? A) Only necessary during services B) Integral to all decision-making processes C) Unimportant for administrative tasks D) Only for personal use, not related to administration

25. How can church leaders ensure they are effectively communicating with their congregation? A) By using complex theological language to assert authority B) Regular updates through diverse communication channels C) Limit communication to written bulletins D) Only communicate through sermons

Service Times

Sunday School
Christian Education: 7:30AM

Sunday Morning Glory
Worship Experience: 9:00AM

1st Monday Night of the Month
The Apostle Connect: 7:30PM

Tuesday Night Mid-Week
Impact Service: 7:30PM

4th Sunday Night
Prophetic or Evangelistic Push: 7:30PM

Contact Info

131 NE. 9th Street, Pompano Beach, Florida 33060
(954) 851-6608
newlifeacojinc@gmail.com

New Life Apostolic Church Of Jesus, Inc.

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