Topical Encyclopedia The concept of edification as the primary objective of the ministerial office is deeply rooted in the teachings of the New Testament. The term "edification" refers to the building up or strengthening of the church, both in its collective sense as the body of Christ and in the individual spiritual growth of its members. This purpose is central to the role of ministers, who are called to shepherd, teach, and guide believers in their faith journey.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul frequently emphasizes the importance of edification in his epistles. In Ephesians 4:11-12 , Paul writes, "And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ." Here, the ministerial roles are clearly defined with the purpose of equipping believers and building up the church. In 1 Corinthians 14:12 , Paul further instructs, "So it is with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, strive to excel in gifts that build up the church." This passage underscores the priority of using spiritual gifts for the edification of the church, highlighting that the ultimate goal of any ministerial activity should be the strengthening of the faith community. Role of Ministers Ministers are entrusted with the responsibility of teaching sound doctrine, as seen in Titus 1:9 : "He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it." By adhering to and disseminating sound doctrine, ministers ensure that the church is built on a solid foundation, fostering spiritual maturity among its members. Moreover, the pastoral epistles provide guidance on the character and conduct of ministers, emphasizing qualities that contribute to the edification of the church. In 1 Timothy 4:12-13 , Paul advises Timothy, "Let no one despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, and to teaching." This instruction highlights the importance of personal integrity and dedication to teaching as means of edifying the church. Edification through Love and Unity The New Testament also links edification with love and unity within the church. In 1 Corinthians 8:1 , Paul states, "Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up." This verse contrasts mere knowledge with love, suggesting that true edification arises from actions motivated by love. Furthermore, Ephesians 4:15-16 emphasizes the role of unity in edification: "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head. From Him the whole body, fitted and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." The imagery of the church as a body illustrates how each member contributes to the edification of the whole through love and cooperation. Conclusion The ministerial office, as outlined in the New Testament, is fundamentally oriented towards the edification of the church. Through teaching, sound doctrine, love, and unity, ministers are called to build up the body of Christ, ensuring that believers are equipped for service and spiritual growth. This focus on edification underscores the transformative power of the gospel and the vital role of ministers in nurturing a vibrant and faithful Christian community. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 4:11,12And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Last Interview of Paul with the Elders of Ephesus. Knox's Book of Common Order. Paul in Ephesus. Biographical Sketch. The Epistles of Paul. Coornhert and the Collegiants --A Movement for Spiritual Religion ... Differences in Judgment About Water Baptism, no Bar to Communion ... Miscellaneous Subjects. The British Advance, 1801-1856. Touching the First Subject of all the Forementioned Power of the ... Resources What is Montanism? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to speak life? | GotQuestions.org How does God distribute spiritual gifts? | GotQuestions.org Edification: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Edification is the Object of Ministerial Authority Edification is the Object of Ministerial Gifts Edification is the Object of The Church's Union in Christ Edification is the Object of The Ministerial office Edification: All to be Done To Edification: Foolish Questions Opposed To Edification: Mutual, Commanded Edification: The Gospel, the Instrument of Edification: The Peace of the Church Favours Edification: Use Self-Denial to Promote, in Others Related Terms |
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