Apostolic ministry is vital to the church. It was vital to the early church (it wouldn't have existed without it), and it is vital to the church today (we won't progress without it). Apostles instill people with the mission of God. They strike the flint that sparks the fire. Then, once the fire is kindled, apostles assure that it burns pure. They keep the church concerned with the mission it was called to.
The other leadership functions are vital as well.
Prophets act as the voice of God, calling the new converts to pure devotion to the mission the apostles instilled and questioning everything for the sake of holiness and justice. Prophets speak to believers calling them to faithfulness.
Evangelists voice the call of God that the prophet opens our ears to. They introduce people to Jesus through the gospel.
Pastors shepherd the people captured by Jesus. He or she cares for the people and creates an environment of discipleship.
Teachers disciple. They train and define what it means to be a Christian.
In an organization, when all five functions are functioning, this necessarily creates conflict because each type of person is focused on a very different task, but the goal is the same, or at least it should be - to advance the kingdom of God.
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