First, the Sacramental tradition, expressed primarily through the Catholic Church, The Eucharist as its focus with its strengths in devotion, worship and holiness. The altar is a central feature and pastor or priest plays key role. This produces passivity and bolsters the dependence on an up-front one-man (with the emphasis on one-man) ministry.

Second, the Reformation tradition, which was the outcome of the first major shaking they had experienced for centuries, focused attention on the Bible once again. Strengths were preaching, exposition, and quest for truth. Weaknesses, the trinity became the Father, Son, and Holy Scriptures. Which left the church and its practices irrelevant to the people she sought to reach.

Third, the Missionary tradition, was a natural progression of the reformation, as truth understood had to be proclaimed. Heralded as the “Great Awakening”, its task was fulfilling the great commission. Its strength was zeal for evangelism. Weaknesses, this became marginalized by the church.

Fourth, the Charismatic tradition, which began with Pentecostal outpouring at the beginning of the twentieth century and was advanced through renewal movements during the sixties to this present time. This has reshaped the church. The main focus, the Holy Spirit. Also, the restoration of prophecy and healing. The prophet has played a key role.

Now, the time is right for a full-blooded Apostolic tradition to appear, which will take the best elements of the other four and bind them together to make a final, strong witness to Christ’s character and power in all the earth.