To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.

Last time we looked at the men whom God has given as gifts to His church. In verse 12 we see the purpose, and then next time in verse 13 we will see the goal.

So, why did God give these gifted men to the church?

To equip the saints. Other words that could be use would be to mend, or to make fit, or to perfect. The idea is that these leaders and teachers are helping individual believers in the church, and the church as a whole to be better equipped to live out the Christian life and to serve God.

The next phrase in this verse says, “for the building up the body of Christ.” The question is, is this a second part of the job or is it the result? Does it mean these men are to equip the saints for ministry so that the body can be built up? Or does it mean 1) equip the saints for service, and 2) build up the body of Christ?

I think it’s both. The leaders themselves are not able to build the body. Every part of the body is to be working together, using their own gifts to do their part. The leaders are to equip the body so that the body can be more effective at maturing itself (See Ephesians 4:16).

Exported from Logos Bible Software, 10:30 AM January 19, 2021.