Harnessing APEST to Ignite Gospel Networks in Today's Church

The rapid spread of the gospel in Asia Minor during Paul’s ministry is a powerful example of how networks can accelerate disciple-making and church planting. Acts 19:8-10 tells us that Paul spent two years in Ephesus, boldly teaching and turning many to Christ. This short period sparked a movement that reached the whole province. What made this possible? One key lies in Ephesians 4:11, where Paul describes the roles God gave the church—apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers—often summarized as APEST. These roles form a dynamic hub that fuels gospel networks, both then and now.

This post explores how APEST functions as a catalyst for gospel growth, how networks work in spreading faith, and how modern disciple-making movements like Field USA apply these principles today. We’ll also look at evidence-based research on network growth and practical steps for multiplying disciples and churches.

Map showing Asia Minor with key cities from Acts 19

Map of Asia Minor showing key cities where Paul ministered, illustrating the network of early gospel spread.

Understanding APEST as a Gospel Hub

Ephesians 4:11 introduces five ministry roles that equip the church for mission:

• Apostles: Pioneer new works and establish churches.

• Prophets: Provide spiritual insight and direction.

• Evangelists: Share the gospel widely and bring new believers.

• Shepherds (Pastors): Care for and nurture the community.

• Teachers: Ground believers in sound doctrine.

  
  

Together, these roles form a hub that connects and empowers the church body. Paul’s work in Acts 19 shows this in action. His apostolic leadership, combined with local teachers and evangelists, created a network that spread the gospel rapidly across cities and villages.

This APEST hub is not just a biblical concept but a practical framework for building movements today. Each role plays a unique part in multiplying disciples and churches, ensuring growth is sustainable and healthy.

How Networks Accelerate Gospel Spread

Networks are systems of connected people or groups that share information, resources, and support. The early church’s growth depended on such networks—small groups meeting in homes, leaders mentoring others, and churches planting new churches nearby.

Research on social networks shows that information and behaviors spread faster through strong, interconnected ties. For example:

• Strong ties (close relationships) build trust and commitment.

• Weak ties (acquaintances) connect different groups and spread new ideas.

  
  

Paul’s ministry leveraged both. His close relationships with leaders like Timothy and Apollos strengthened local churches, while his travels and letters connected distant communities.

Modern studies on church planting movements confirm this. Movements that multiply rapidly often have:

• Clear leadership roles aligned with APEST.

• Intentional training and mentoring.

• Networks that cross cultural and geographic boundaries.

  
  

Diagram showing interconnected churches and leaders in a network

Visual representation of how churches and leaders connect in a network to support gospel multiplication.

Types of Networks in Disciple-Making Movements

Networks vary by structure and purpose. Here are common types relevant to disciple-making:

• Hub-and-Spoke Networks: One central leader or church connects to many smaller groups. This resembles Paul’s role as an apostle.

• Distributed Networks: Leadership and resources spread evenly across groups, encouraging autonomy and multiplication.

• Cluster Networks: Groups form around shared culture or geography, supporting localized growth.

  
  

Each type has strengths. Hub-and-spoke networks provide clear vision and coordination, while distributed networks foster rapid multiplication by empowering many leaders. Cluster networks build deep community and cultural relevance.

Field USA, a disciple-making movement, uses a mix of these. They train leaders (apostles, teachers, evangelists) who then plant churches and mentor others, creating clusters of multiplying groups across the country.

Practical Applications for Today’s Church

Applying APEST and network principles can transform how churches disciple and multiply:

• Identify and develop APEST roles in your community. Encourage people to discover their gifting and serve accordingly.

• Build strong relationships that connect leaders and groups. Use regular meetings, training, and communication tools.

• Create multiplication goals that focus on planting new groups or churches every year.

• Leverage technology to connect distant groups and share resources.

• Encourage cultural adaptability so the gospel resonates in diverse contexts.

  
  

Research from organizations like the Center for the Study of Global Christianity shows movements with these practices grow exponentially. For example, churches that intentionally train leaders in APEST roles see 3-5 times faster growth than those that don’t.

Small group gathering for discipleship and training

Small group focused on discipleship and leadership training, reflecting modern application of APEST principles.

Connecting to Field USA’s Movement

Field USA exemplifies how APEST and networks ignite gospel multiplication today. Their approach includes:

• Training leaders in apostolic, prophetic, evangelistic, shepherding, and teaching roles.

• Forming clusters of multiplying churches and disciples.

• Using technology and coaching to maintain strong network connections.

• Emphasizing cultural relevance and rapid multiplication.

  
  

Their results show how biblical principles combined with modern network understanding can fuel disciple-making movements that reach cities and regions quickly.

The story of Paul in Ephesus and the teaching in Ephesians 4:11 offer more than history. They provide a blueprint for today’s church to build strong gospel networks. By embracing APEST roles and understanding how networks function, churches can multiply disciples and plant churches with power and purpose.

You can find out more about our school of Ministry Training: www.fieldtraining.org.