What is the meaning of Ephesians 4:11? And it was He who gave Jesus Himself is the source of every ministry gift. The verse looks back to 4:7–10, where the risen Christ “gave gifts to men.” • This means the church does not create its own offices; the Lord appoints them. James 1:17 reminds us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.” • The variety of gifts under one Lord reflects 1 Corinthians 12:4-6: “There are different gifts, but the same Spirit… the same Lord… the same God.” • Because the Giver is perfect, each role is good, necessary, and timed precisely for the church’s growth. some to be apostles “Apostles” were the eyewitness, foundation-laying messengers of the gospel. • Jesus chose the Twelve (Luke 6:13) and later Paul (Galatians 1:1) as unique witnesses of His resurrection. Acts 1:21-22 shows this qualification plainly. • Their ministry laid the groundwork—“built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone” (Ephesians 2:20). • Through their Spirit-inspired teaching, we still receive authoritative doctrine in Scripture (Acts 2:42). some to be prophets Prophets spoke God’s timely word for edification, warning, and direction. • Agabus foretold a famine (Acts 11:28) and Paul’s arrest (Acts 21:10-11), illustrating how prophecy served the early church. • 1 Corinthians 14:3 affirms that “he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort.” • Alongside apostles, prophets clarified God’s will and strengthened believers, showing the Lord’s ongoing care. some to be evangelists Evangelists specialize in proclaiming the gospel to the lost and equipping others to do the same. • Philip “went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ to them” (Acts 8:5) and is later called “Philip the evangelist” (Acts 21:8). • Paul charges Timothy, “Do the work of an evangelist” (2 Timothy 4:5), proving the role extends beyond one individual and one era. • The evangelist keeps the church outward-facing, ensuring the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) stays central. and some to be pastors and teachers Pastors (shepherds) and teachers nurture and guide believers toward maturity. • Shepherding: “Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood” (Acts 20:28). A pastor watches over, protects, and feeds the flock. • Teaching: An overseer must be “able to teach” (1 Timothy 3:2); doctrine guards the flock from error. • Peter ties both ideas together: “Be shepherds of God’s flock… not under compulsion, but willingly” (1 Peter 5:2). • Whether Paul intends one combined office (“pastor-teacher”) or two closely linked functions, the point is clear: sound teaching and loving care belong together. summary Ephesians 4:11 outlines Christ’s perfect distribution of ministry gifts: apostles laid the once-for-all foundation, prophets delivered God’s timely word, evangelists spread the gospel, and pastors-teachers continually nourish the church. Each role, given by the risen Lord, displays His wisdom and ensures His body grows in truth, unity, and love. |
    |