Horizontal Relationships
The primary purpose and vision of Apex Christian Alliance (ACA) is to develop sons in the faith, training them with the goal of commissioning and sending them out. Therefore, ACA does not actively seek to develop horizontal relationships simply for the purpose of growing or expanding an organizational structure.
Notwithstanding, ACA recognizes the value of God-ordained horizontal relationships. We see the importance of having an open door for ministers or churches who agree with the vision and beliefs of ACA, and desire to come alongside in order to help build the kingdom. We affirm, however, that these types of relationships are developed by the leading of the Lord, and they should not be entered into lightly, or with unrealistic expectations.
What is a “horizontal” relationship?
In contrast to the vertical relationship, the horizontal relationship involves those who have not been raised up directly under, or sent out by, the apostolic oversight of ACA. This relationship refers to those who desire to relate to ACA as friends, colleagues, or fellow-workers. These relationships are formed around a common calling, purpose, and belief.
Though Apex Christian Alliance welcomes horizontal relationships, they must be built upon the understanding that the primary focus of ACA is raising up sons in the faith in order to send them forth to plant churches and build the kingdom. While it’s true that partnership is the power of multiplication, it is also true that two cannot walk together unless they are in agreement. (Amos 3:3) With that in mind, it’s reasonable to assume a true horizontal relationship will be developed by the leading of the Lord.
A Commitment to Help Supply
As a horizontal relationship is sought and developed, it must be understood that the main flow of resources from ACA is to those who are raised up and sent out—“For the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.” (2 Cor. 12:14) A desire for a horizontal relationship indicates agreement with the goals, beliefs, and objectives of ACA. Consequently, this relationship is a selfless and Christ-honoring commitment to build the kingdom alongside other ministry gifts just as Barnabas did with Paul.
Tithing (“heaving up”) within a “horizontal” relationship is not a biblical mandate. However, we trust that those who come alongside; those who believe in the vision of ACA; those who truly have it in their hearts to help train up the next generation to preach, plant, and build the kingdom will understand the truth that “every joint” should help supply. It’s within this principle that we encourage horizontal members of Apex to commit to giving regularly to help cover expenses and make a way for those being trained.
“…from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.” (Ephesians 4:16, emphasis added.)
What to expect in a horizontal relationship
Access to monthly Apex meetings which provide teaching, fellowship, and encouragement.
Participation in other special teaching sessions, ministry meetings, and ministry retreats.
Networking with ministers of like faith.
The opportunity to be involved in training, encouraging, commissioning, and sending ministers to preach, plant, and build the kingdom.
Vertical Relationships
