Step 1: Fill out the application packet found online or requested from the AFI office.
Step 2: Complete the application packet and mail it along with fees and dues to the AFI office.
Step 3: Have recommendation forms sent directly to the AFI Office.
Step 4: AFI Leadership will contact you for an interview to discuss any questions AFI or you might have.
Step 5: A decision will be made by AFI as to the applicant’s eligibility to receive credentials from AFI, as well as the credential level (whether AKB, Ministerial License, or Ordination) issued to the applicant.
Step 6: The applicant is notified of the decision by mail and/ or phone.
All believers are called to minister because every believer is commanded to share the Gospel with the lost. However, ministerial credentials pertain to those believers who have the responsibility of fulfilling five-fold ministry (Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor or Teacher). His/her function differs from an “Acts Kingdom Builder” or a person serving in the ministry of helps in that a five-fold minister is recognized by civil authorities. He/she requires a higher level of accountability.
Moral Qualifications
In order for a person to assume a leadership role in the Christian ministry, we feel that the highest standards of personal conduct are expected. This includes managing a happy and healthy home life and abstinence from the use of tobacco, alcohol (including wine), and/or illegal drugs.
The Bible establishes the spiritual and moral qualifications of five-fold ministers/elders in 1 Timothy 3:2-7, as well as Titus 1:1-8:
- Blameless (1 Timothy 3:2)
- Temperate (1 Timothy 3:2)
- Sober (1 Timothy 3:2)
- Of good behavior (1 Timothy 3:3)
- Not given to wine (1 Timothy 3:3)
- Not a striker (1 Timothy 3:3)
- Not greedy of money (1 Timothy 3:3)
- Not a brawler (1 Timothy 3:3)
- Not covetous (1 Timothy 3:3)
- A lover of good ( 1 Timothy 1:8)
Eligibility for Licensing/Ordination
AFI uses the following criteria to test eligibility:
• One who has a divine call to a five-fold ministry.
• One who is in full-time/part-time ministry.
• One who has demonstrated this call.
• The minister must have studied and shown himself approved in handling the Word of God accurately.
• Others have recognized the call on the minister’s life.
• The minister must maintain compliance with AFI policies concerning doctrine and ethical standards.
• The minister must exhibit the proper fruit in character and ministry.
• The minister must devote significant time to preaching and teaching the Word of God from a recognized ministerial position requiring five-fold ministry.
• The minister should by virtue of his office, administer the ordinances of the church and conduct weddings/funerals.
• Except in church planting, a minister should derive most of his income from his ministerial duties.The above mentioned requirements should not be construed as to minimize the importance of individuals who are involved in other forms of ministry; however, AFI recognizes the need for establishing minimum requirements for those who intend to receive ministerial credentials.
AFI recognizes ministers from other fellowships, but transfer of a minister’s credentials will not be accepted unless the minister meets the requirements as set forth in this handbook.
Ministerial Licensing is for those individuals who are working part-time or full-time in five-fold ministry.
Ordination is intended for those ministers who are working in five-fold ministry, have proven ministry experience, and are generally serving in full-time ministry. Individuals must have held ministerial licensing with AFI for a period of at least one (1) year and must meet the requirements of an Ordained Minister to request Ordination status. Some exceptions may apply to this rule by AFI leadership.
Yes. If initial application to AFI has been submitted prior to October 1st, a renewal application must be completed and returned to the AFI office with dues payable for the following fiscal year postmarked no later than December 31st.
Yes. There may be situations where a minister is credentialed through another organization and wishes to enjoy the benefits of licensing/ordination with AFI as well.
Yes. If you are a Christian and desire to help AFI advance the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, you may apply for “Acts Kingdom Builder.”
