Ephesians 4:7-12: Gifts Given to the Church
Introduction
How does God equip the church for its mission? Ephesians 4:7-12 reveals the spiritual gifts given to each believer and the leadership roles that help build up the body of Christ. This passage is a profound reminder that the church is not a static institution but a dynamic, living organism, empowered by the gifts of Christ to fulfill its divine purpose. In a world that often values individualism and self-promotion, Paul’s words call us to a higher standard—one of unity, service, and mutual edification.
In this article, we will see the richness of Ephesians 4:7-12, exploring its theological significance, practical implications, and relevance for the church today. By examining the gifts Christ has given to his people and the purpose behind them, we will discover how we can actively participate in God’s mission and contribute to the growth of His kingdom.
Ephesians 4:7-12: The Gifts of Christ to His Church
Paul begins this section by emphasizing the grace given to each believer: “But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7, ESV). This verse marks a shift from the broader call for unity in the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:1-6) to a more specific discussion of the diverse gifts distributed by Christ to His people. The unity Paul speaks of is not uniformity; rather, it is a unity that thrives on diversity. Each believer has been uniquely gifted by God to serve the church and fulfill its mission.
The word “grace” here refers to spiritual gifts—special abilities and empowerments given by God for the benefit of others. These gifts are not earned or deserved; they are freely given by Christ. Every Christian, regardless of their background, status, or abilities, has received a gift that is part of the greater mission of God. This underscores the value and dignity of every believer in the eyes of God.
Christ’s Descent and Ascent: The Source of the Gifts (Ephesians 4:8-10)
To explain the origin of these gifts, Paul cites Psalm 68:18: “When he ascended on high, he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men” (Ephesians 4:8, ESV). This imagery of Christ’s ascent refers to his victorious ascension after his resurrection, where he triumphed over sin, death, and the powers of evil. The phrase “he led a host of captives” speaks to Christ’s victory over the forces of darkness. Through his death and resurrection, Christ has triumphed over the powers that once held humanity captive. In his ascension, he now reigns as Lord over all things, and from this position of power, he distributes spiritual gifts to his people. Isn’t this awe inspiring?!
Paul also highlights Christ’s descent, noting that he first “descended into the lower regions, the earth” (Ephesians 4:9, ESV). This likely refers to Christ’s incarnation and his death, which took him to the depths of human experience, even to the grave. Only after his descent could he ascend and give gifts to His people. This dual aspect of Christ’s work—his descent into the depths and his ascent to the heights—demonstrates his sovereignty and authority. It is from this place of triumph that Christ equips the church for its work.
The Ascended Christ and His Gifts: The Fivefold Ministry (Ephesians 4:11)
In Ephesians 4:11, Paul lists the specific gifts Christ has given to the church: “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers” (ESV). These roles are often referred to as the “fivefold ministry” of the church, though the exact number may vary depending on interpretation. Each role is essential for the health and growth of the church, and together they work to equip believers for ministry and help the church fulfill its mission.
1. Apostles
The word “apostle” comes from the Greek word ἀπόστολος (apostolos), which means “one who is sent” or “sent out one.” Apostles were foundational leaders of the early church, personally commissioned by Christ to establish the church and spread the gospel. While the office of the apostle is generally seen as a unique role in the early church, the apostolic gift continues today in those who pioneer new ministries and spread the message of Christ. In addition to its use in Ephesians 4:11, the term apostolos is also used in Matthew 10:2, Luke 6:13, and Acts 1:26 to refer to the original twelve apostles. This word reflects the broader mission of all believers, as we are all sent into the world to participate in God’s work of reconciliation.
2. Prophets
The Greek word for “prophet” is προφήτης (prophētēs), meaning “one who speaks for another” or “one who speaks forth.” In the New Testament, prophets were instrumental in speaking God’s word to His people, bringing both correction and encouragement. The role of the prophet is not merely about foretelling the future but also about declaring God’s will for the present. The prophetic office is referenced in Acts 13:1, where prophets in the church of Antioch are mentioned as leaders of the community, and in 1 Corinthians 12:28, where prophets are listed as one of the gifts in the church.
3. Evangelists
The Greek word for “evangelist” is εὐαγγελιστής (euangelistēs), which means “one who brings good news” or “a proclaimer of the gospel.” Evangelists are specifically gifted to share the gospel with those who have not heard it, proclaiming the good news of salvation and calling people to repentance and faith in Christ. The term euangelistēsappears in Acts 21:8, where Philip is described as an evangelist, and in 2 Timothy 4:5, where Paul encourages Timothy to “do the work of an evangelist.”
4. Pastors (Shepherds)
The Greek word for “pastor” is ποιμήν (poimēn), meaning “shepherd.” Pastors are those who care for the spiritual well-being of the church, leading, protecting, and nurturing the congregation. Their role is to help believers grow in their faith and walk with God. The term poimēn is used in John 10:11 by Jesus to describe Himself as the Good Shepherd, and in Acts 20:28, where Paul instructs the elders of the church to “care for the church of God.”
5. Teachers
The Greek word for “teacher” is διδάσκαλος (didaskalos), meaning “one who teaches or instructs.” Teachers are those gifted to explain and apply the Word of God, helping the church understand and live according to God’s truth. Teaching is not only about imparting knowledge but also about applying that knowledge to everyday life. The word didaskalos is used in Matthew 23:8, where Jesus refers to the religious leaders as teachers, and in James 3:1, where teachers are cautioned about the weight of their responsibility.
Each of these roles, while distinct in their functions, is essential for the health and growth of the church. Together, they equip believers for ministry and help the church fulfill its mission of spreading the gospel and building up the body of Christ.
These roles, though different in their functions, are all essential for the health and growth of the church. They work together to equip believers for ministry and to help the church fulfill its mission.
The Purpose of These Gifts: Equipping the Saints (Ephesians 4:12)
The ultimate purpose of these gifts is to “equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12, ESV). This verse highlights a crucial principle: the role of church leaders is not to do all the work of ministry themselves but to equip others to serve. Every believer has a part to play in the life of the church. The gifts given to apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are designed to empower others to use their gifts for God’s kingdom.
In other words, the church is not a place where a few people do all the work while others passively receive. Instead, the church is a community of believers where everyone is called to use their gifts for the common good. The leaders equip and train, but all believers are called to be active participants in the mission of God.
Ephesians 4:7-12 Explained
In these verses, Paul teaches that Christ, through his victory over sin and death, has given diverse gifts to his people. These gifts are designed to equip the church for ministry and to build up the body of Christ. They are not to be used for personal gain or status but for the good of others and the glory of God.
The fivefold ministry (apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers) is a model for church leadership, and each role is crucial in fulfilling the church’s mission. However, it’s important to note that these roles are not just for a select few; they exist to equip and empower the entire church body to serve. Every believer has been given a gift, and every gift is valuable for the work of the kingdom.
Ephesians 4:7-12 and Meaning for Today
The message of Ephesians 4:7-12 is a powerful reminder that God has equipped the church for its mission. We are not left to carry out this mission on our own, but Christ has given us everything we need to fulfill His purposes. The diversity of gifts within the church is not something to be feared but celebrated. Each person’s gift is essential to the overall health of the body of Christ.
If we are to live in a way that reflects the gospel, we must understand that the church is a body, not a hierarchy. Each believer plays a crucial role in the life of the church. Whether you serve in a leadership role or in a more behind-the-scenes capacity, your gift is needed and valued by God.
This passage challenges us to reflect on the gifts we have been given and how we are using them. Are we using our gifts to build up the body of Christ? Are we actively participating in the mission of God? As we seek to serve others, we must remember that the gifts we have are not ours to keep but to share for the common good.
Key Takeaways from Ephesians 4:7-12
1. Christ Gives Gifts to His People: Every believer has received a gift from Christ, and these gifts are for the building up of the body of Christ.
2. The Fivefold Ministry: Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are all essential roles in the church. Their purpose is to equip believers for ministry.
3. Equipping the Saints: The role of church leaders is to equip all believers for service, ensuring that everyone has a part to play in the mission of God.
In a world where it’s easy to feel like spectators in our faith, Ephesians 4:7-12 reminds us that we are all called to be active participants in God’s mission. Let us embrace the gifts He has given us and use them for the good of His kingdom and the building up of His body.
