Dr. Kluane Spake, Author
Reviewed by Theresa Harvard Johnson
As ministry leaders, we can find ourselves operating in prophetic ministry with limited training, instruction, guidance and insight. It is not uncommon to minister in these arenas with people whose understanding and insight is pretty much at the same level as yours. After all, many prophetic people travel in circles… and often don’t recognize when their “circle” stops growing in progressive revelation. Some may even live in the same community; have probably taken similar classes on the prophetic and have read some of the most popular books available today which, more or less, repeat information.
If you are reading this book review, you are probably seeking MORE understanding concerning the prophetic as well.
While searching the web on this topic one day, I stumbled across a book entitled, “Apostolic Guidelines to Release the Prophetic” by Dr. Kluane Spake. I ordered it immediately, and read it cover-to-cover within days of its arrival. That was over six months ago and it has significantly impacted my life. I have since reread it; but this time, I combed through the pages highlighting key areas, taking extensive notes and studying out certain aspects deeper in the scriptures. (I have a growing notebook dedicated to what I have learned and received from my study.)
Let me say this: I believe that I have found the ultimate resource on understanding, cultivating and navigating the prophetic within my life and ministry in this season.
I literally felt like putting all those other books I had purchased – with the exception of about three of them written by someone I know personally – in a box marked “donations” for my next trip to Goodwill. Please understand that those books were not necessarily of poor quality. They simply contained common knowledge or information that I have outgrown. This is not meant to be insulting toward anyone, but to simply highlight that this is where many believers are in their growth right now.
In the introduction of “Apostolic Guidelines to Release the Prophetic,” Dr. Spake shares a very humorous, but serious story with the reader concerning her introduction to the prophetic – breaking down barriers that separate “the teacher” from students like me who are not necessarily looking for “theological” instruction; but relatable, practical or user-friendly insight that adds to ministry development. It is also clear that she lived the “ugly-of-this-message.” By this, I am noting that the wisdom between the pages are the result of the school of hard knocks.
Dr. Spake redefines the prophetic from an apostolic, Kingdom perspective. She challenges readers to see the “apostolic influence” on the prophetic and to navigate the prophetic with this understanding. She also expands common knowledge governing the “spirit of prophecy” and the “purpose of prophetic gifts” – dispelling some misconceptions about prophetic ministry.
Another significant aspect of “Apostolic Guidelines to Release the Prophetic” is the clarity provided concerning why guidelines and protocols are needed in the prophetic; and what kind of protocols should be considered. The addition of this content, along with a detailed section on the need for accountability in prophetic ministry is what sets this book so far apart from what is common to this market.
I would be remiss not to mention that the all aspects of the prophetic are defined and explained in detail with some illustration, numerous examples and extensive scripture references – enabling readers to independently study the material. There are also distinguishing guidelines to help the reader clearly and effectively identify the office of the prophet from the gift of prophecy, and its relation to the spirit of prophecy.
It is also necessary to note that “Apostolic Guidelines to Release the Prophetic” confronts extensive immaturity and error in the administration of prophetic ministry. In doing so, she ensures that readers can identify false and manipulative prophetic ministry when it is in operation while also learning to guard the prophetic, honoring the work of Holy Spirit in us and in the people.
So many of my questions surrounding the prophetic were answered. Many concepts that I have pondered but lacked the ability to convey, found form. I now have a solid reference book that to use as a study tool, teaching tool and a guide for establishing order for prophetic ministry within my own organization. Note that a person who is new to the prophetic could also pick up this book and become a student of it with great ease.
I highly recommend this book, especially for leaders involved in prophetic ministry of anykind and building prophetic school. Reading it will reveal just how limited many of the resources on the mainstream mark are in their understanding of this subject. Best of all, readers will walk away knowing that “any believer” can walk in prophetic ministry — not just certain people, with certain callings or perceived special access.
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Apostolic Guidelines to Release the Prophetic
Dr. Kluane Spake
Paperback: 118 pages - Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 1489532137
- ISBN-13: 978-1489532138
- Product Dimensions: 7.5 x 0.3 x 9.2 inches
Available on Amazon.com in paperback and ebook.
