10 Reasons Why I Reject the NAR 

Part 2 

See last week’s article to understand the context of this teaching.

5. Misunderstanding the Function of Prophetic Ministry in the New Testament

Some identified in the NAR often equate the prophetic ministry in the New Testament with that of Old Testament prophets. However, this overlooks a significant theological distinction between the two.

In the Old Testament, prophets were singularly anointed to speak for God, and a false prophecy could result in death (Deuteronomy 18:20). In the New Testament, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit means that all believers have access to the gift of prophecy (1 Corinthians 14:31). While some are called to function as prophetic leaders, prophets in the New Testament only know in part and are subject to testing and evaluation by the church (1 Corinthians 13:12; 1 Corinthians 14:29-33; 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21), and the standard for judgment is not capital punishment.

The NAR often places undue weight on prophetic utterances, treating them with an authority that mirrors Old Testament prophecy without the same evaluation and communal discernment safeguards. When prophetic words are misused, this leads to confusion and, in some cases, spiritual abuse.

6. Overemphasis on Titles and Authority Structures

Some classified in the NAR emphasize titles such as “apostle” and “prophet,” often creating hierarchical structures where certain leaders are seen as possessing higher levels of spiritual authority than typical pastors in a region because they have a particular title. In contrast, the New Testament emphasizes a more biblical and humble approach to leadership. Focusing on titles in the NAR can lead to pride, elitism, and a distorted view of leadership focusing more on control than service. Biblical leadership is primarily about servanthood and humility, not titles or hierarchical dominance (Matthew 20:25-28).

7. An Incomplete View of the Kingdom of God

We need to have a well-rounded understanding of the Kingdom of God. The NAR frequently presents a limited view, equating kingdom advancement primarily with charismatic experiences, supernatural encounters, or political influence. However, Scripture advocates for a more comprehensive view of the kingdom that encompasses spiritual formation, societal renewal, and a gospel that positively affects every sphere of life. The kingdom of God is not just about spiritual gifts but about justice, mercy, and truth being manifested in every area of society (Micah 6:8).

8. Imbalanced Focus on Spiritual Warfare

The NAR often focuses on defeating demonic strongholds over specific geographical areas by identifying and challenging principalities and “territorial spirits.” While spiritual warfare is undoubtedly biblical, there is no record of naming principalities over cities to advance the gospel. For example, Jesus saw Satan fall like lightning after He sent the 70 to proclaim the gospel of the kingdom, cast out demons, and heal the sick, not because they specifically challenged principalities (Luke 10:17-20). 

Unfortunately, many in this movement have overemphasized this aspect of the Christian life to the detriment of discipleship, character development, and community life. Hence, while spiritual warfare is essential, it should not replace the core tasks of the church: evangelism, multiplying disciples, teaching the Word, and fostering personal holiness (Ephesians 6:12-13).

9. A Misguided Theology of Dominion

Many in the NAR promote a version of “Dominion Theology,” which teaches that Christians must take control of earthly governments, businesses, education, and other societal institutions to usher in the kingdom of God. However, God called Adam to have dominion over the created order before the earth was populated with humans (Genesis 1:28) . The term “Dominion” was never used after the earth was populated. This emphasis can lead to an unhealthy pursuit of power and distract believers from the church’s true mission. Influence over societal structures comes as a byproduct of living out Christian values, not as the church’s primary mission.

10. The Propagation of Unverified Prophetic Utterances

The NAR often promotes spontaneous prophetic utterances as central to its ministry. However, all prophecies must be carefully tested and measured against the Word of God (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21). Unfortunately, some identified in the  NAR sometimes seem to allow personal prophecies to carry the same weight as Scripture when people look for prophetic words for guidance instead of edifying and confirming what God has already impressed upon their hearts. This can lead to confusion, disappointment, and even disillusionment when prophetic words do not come to pass.

In conclusion, while some classified in the NAR may have sincere intentions to see the church fully functioning in all of its gifts, some teachings contain several significant errors. These include a superficial understanding of church history, a dangerous conflation of politics and the kingdom of God, questionable biblical exegesis, and confusion regarding the role of prophecy in the New Testament.

For these reasons, I have never aligned myself with what is now recognized as the NAR framework. The ministry of Christ through the church has never ceased, and Ephesians 4:11 gifts have always existed in one form or another throughout history. We must avoid sensationalism, focus on sound doctrine, and ensure that our understanding of church leadership and prophecy is consistent with Scripture and the history of the Christian faith.

(For more detail, read my book The Global Apostolic Movement and the Progress of the Gospel.”)