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“Gifted to Give”
Ephesians 4:7-12
1. Every believer has been sovereignly gifted by Christ (v7-10)
* Why does Paul change the quote from Psalm 68:18 from “receiving gifts” to “gave gifts”? See Numbers Ch 8 and 18, especially 18:6. We are Christ’s spoils of war, given to Him and graciously sent as gifts to each other.
2. Some are given offices in order to fit believers for the work of mutual service and upbuilding in the faith (v11-12).
* Apostles were eyewitnesses of Christ’s resurrection specially gifted to go establish churches.
* Prophets are described in 1 Corinthians 14 as those who speak a word from the Holy Spirit for strengthening, comfort, encouragement, building up the church.
* Evangelists recognized as gifted to share and spread the Gospel.
* Pastors and teachers are probably two distinct offices but closely related. Pastors are shepherds; teachers are gifted in instruction.
V12: What is “the work of ministry”? Paul explains: “For building up the body of Christ.”
