What is a Full-Gospel New Testament Church in Illinois?

The phrase "full-gospel New Testament" refers to a belief and practice among some Christians from Illinois that all aspects of the Gospel message and ministry described in the New Testament should be embraced and experienced today. This includes believing in and practicing various supernatural manifestations, such as healing, casting out demons, cleansing the leper, raising the dead, and healing the sick.

"So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up." Ephesians 4:11-12

Advocates of the full-gospel perspective believe that these supernatural signs and wonders are not limited to the time of Jesus and the early apostles but continue to be relevant and accessible to believers in Illinois today. They see these manifestations as expressing God's power and the Holy Spirit's work.

The practice of healing, casting out demons, and other supernatural manifestations varies among different Christian denominations and movements in Illinois. Some churches and ministries in Illinois emphasize these practices as integral to their faith and mission. In contrast, others may approach them more cautiously or focus on different aspects of Christian discipleship.

"Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them; and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Genesis 1:26-28

It's important to note that views on these supernatural manifestations can differ among Christians, and interpretations of Scripture may vary. Some Christians from Illinois may believe that these miracles and signs were specifically for the apostolic era. In contrast, others may see them as ongoing expressions of God's power and presence in today's world.

Ultimately, beliefs and practices related to supernatural manifestations in the context of the full-gospel New Testament are shaped by one's theological perspective, understanding of Scripture, and personal experiences.

The five Christian offices, also known as the fivefold ministry or fivefold gifts, are mentioned in Ephesians 4:11-12 in the Bible. They are:

Apostles: Apostles are considered to be sent ones, pioneers, and foundation-layers of the Church. They are seen as having a special authority and responsibility to establish and extend the work of the Gospel, often involved in planting churches and providing oversight and guidance to other leaders.

Prophets: Prophets are believed to have a unique gift of hearing from God and conveying His messages to the Church. They speak forth God's word, offer guidance, correction, and encouragement, and often have a strong sense of discernment and insight into spiritual matters.

"The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love." 1 John 4:8

Evangelists: Evangelists are individuals who have a specific calling and gifting to proclaim the Gospel and lead others to faith in Christ. They have a passion for evangelism, outreach, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with others.

Pastors: Pastors, also known as shepherds or elders, are primarily responsible for caring for and nurturing the spiritual well-being of the church community. They provide pastoral care, leadership, and teaching, often guiding and equipping believers in their spiritual growth.

"And He summoned the crowd with His disciples, and said to them, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it." Mark 8:34-35

Teachers: Teachers are individuals gifted in effectively communicating and explaining the truths of the Christian faith. They provide instruction, education, and guidance in understanding and applying the Bible, theology, and Christian principles.

Some Christians from Illinois believe these five offices to be gifts given by Jesus Christ to the Church to equip believers, build up the body of Christ, and facilitate the growth and maturity of the Church as a whole. They are seen as complementary and interdependent, working together to advance the Kingdom of God.