Ephesians 4:12
Verse
Context
Unity in the Body
11And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers,12to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ,13until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the perfecting of the saints - For the complete instruction, purification, and union of all who have believed in Christ Jesus, both Jews and Gentiles. For the meaning of καταρτισμος, perfecting, see the note on Co2 13:9. For the work of the ministry - All these various officers, and the gifts and graces conferred upon them, were judged necessary, by the great Head of the Church, for its full instruction in the important doctrines of Christianity. The same officers and gifts are still necessary, and God gives them; but they do not know their places. In most Christian Churches there appears to be but one office, that of preacher; and one gift, that by which he professes to preach. The apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, are all compounded in the class preachers; and many, to whom God has given nothing but the gift of exhortation, take texts to explain them; and thus lose their time, and mar their ministry. Edifying of the body - The body of Christ is his Church, see Eph 2:20, etc.; and its edification consists in its thorough instruction in Divine things, and its being filled with faith and holiness.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--with a view to; the ultimate aim. "Unto." perfecting--The Greek implies correcting in all that is deficient, instructing and completing in number and all parts. for--a different Greek word; the immediate object. Compare Rom 15:2, "Let every one . . . please his neighbor for his good unto edification." the ministry--Greek, "ministration"; without the article. The office of the ministry is stated in this verse. The good aimed at in respect to the Church (Eph 4:13). The way of growth (Eph 4:14-16). edifying--that is, building up as the temple of the Holy Ghost.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the perfecting of the saints, The chosen ones, whom God has sanctified or set apart for himself in eternal election: the ministry of the word is designed for the completing the number of these in the effectual calling; and for the perfecting of the whole body of the church, by gathering in all that belong to it, and of every particular saint, who is regenerated and sanctified by the Spirit of God: for the best of saints are imperfect; for though there is a perfection in them, as that designs sincerity, in opposition to hypocrisy, and as it may be taken comparatively with respect to what others are, or they themselves were; and though there is a perfection of parts of the new man in them, yet not of degrees; and though there is a complete perfection in Christ, yet not in themselves, their sanctification is imperfect, as their faith, knowledge, love, &c. sin is in them, and committed by them, and they continually want supplies of grace; and the best of them are sensible of their imperfection, and own it: now the ministration of the word is a means of carrying on the work of grace in them unto perfection, or "for the restoring or joining in of the saints"; the elect of God were disjointed in Adam's fall, and scattered abroad, who were representatively gathered together in one head, even in Christ, in redemption; and the word is the means of the visible and open jointing of them into Christ, and into his churches, and also of restoring them after backslidings: for the work of the ministry; gifts are given unto men by Christ to qualify them for it: the preaching of the Gospel is a work, and a laborious one, and what no man is sufficient for of himself; it requires faithfulness, and is a good work, and when well performed, those concerned in it are worthy of respect, esteem, and honour; and it is a ministering work, a service and not dominion: for the edifying the body of Christ; not his natural body the Father prepared for him; nor his sacramental body in the supper; but his mystical body the church; and gifts are bestowed to fit them for the preaching of the Gospel, that hereby the church, which is compared to an edifice, might be built up; and that the several societies of Christians and particular believers might have spiritual edification, and walk in the fear of the Lord, and in the comforts of the Holy Ghost, and their numbers be increased, and their graces be in lively exercise.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:12 God’s gifts are given so that believers will build up the church (see 1 Cor 12:7; cp. 1 Pet 2:5). • to equip God’s people to do his work: All believers are called to active Christian service.
Ephesians 4:12
Unity in the Body
11And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers,12to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ,13until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
God's Purpose for Us
By Major Ian Thomas7.1K39:02God's Purpose for Our LivesCommitment to ChristPurposeMAT 16:13JHN 2:23EPH 2:4EPH 3:16EPH 4:12Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that God's ultimate purpose for us is to have a deep, personal relationship with Jesus Christ, who is not only our Redeemer but also our very life. He stresses that true commitment to Christ must be reciprocal, meaning our dedication to Him should align with His purpose for us, rather than our own expectations. Thomas warns against superficial commitments that do not reflect a genuine understanding of Christ's mission and encourages believers to seek a quality of commitment that allows Christ to work through them in every aspect of life. He illustrates that true maturity and fulfillment come from being rooted in Christ and His purpose, rather than in worldly achievements or recognition. Ultimately, he calls for a supreme commitment to Jesus that transcends all other pursuits and leads to a life fully surrendered to God's will.
A Look at Authority 1: Spiritual & False
By Stephen Kaung6.1K1:19:22Authority1SA 15:22MAT 28:18MRK 10:45ROM 13:12CO 10:8EPH 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the concept of authority in serving. He refers to Mark 10:45, where Jesus states that he came not to be served, but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many. The disciples were arguing about who was the greatest, and Jesus teaches them that in his kingdom, greatness is found in being a servant to all. The preacher highlights the importance of understanding true authority and how it should lead to humility and serving others. He also mentions the need for authority in building up the church and joining people together.
The Preacher
By Vance Havner3.7K19:18PreacherEXO 30:32MAT 4:4MAT 22:37ROM 6:4EPH 4:122TI 3:16REV 21:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of the role of the preacher in today's society. He emphasizes that despite the push towards celebrity and entertainment, the Bible still states that people need a preacher to hear the word of God. The preacher argues that the kind of preaching we need is the same as it has always been. He criticizes a radio preacher who focused on worldly matters instead of the true message of redemption. The preacher urges believers to preach the truth of the Bible and to be aware of the apocalyptic times we are living in, referencing various biblical events and symbols.
What Is the Church
By Alan Redpath3.3K34:55ChurchACT 8:1EPH 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of the church in the Christian faith. He emphasizes that God reaches people through other people, and the church is the instrument through which believers can win others for Christ. The speaker references the book of Acts, specifically chapter 8, to highlight the persecution faced by the early church in Jerusalem and their subsequent scattering throughout the region. He also emphasizes the double responsibility of Christians, both to God as their Father and to their fellow believers as their brothers and sisters in the spiritual family. The speaker warns against spiritual isolationism and encourages Christians to embrace their family responsibilities within the church.
Christ Our Life
By Stephen Olford2.6K34:41ChristEPH 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the story of the gospel as the most majestic story. He describes how God came down from heaven and lived a perfect life on earth, performing miracles and ultimately sacrificing himself on the cross for the forgiveness of sins. The preacher also highlights the importance of personal communication and the role of dedicated individuals in spreading the word of God. He emphasizes that while technology can aid in communication, it can never replace the power of preaching. The sermon concludes with a call to surrender one's life to Christ and allow His life to be lived through them.
3, Staying on Course
By George Verwer2.2K52:55Following ChristMAT 6:33LUK 14:33EPH 4:12In this video, the speaker emphasizes the importance of young people in spreading the word of God and evangelizing the world. They acknowledge the value of older individuals in providing stability and wisdom gained from experience. The speaker also mentions the presence of Bible teaching and seminars at a famous music festival, where young people eagerly listen to the word of God. The video concludes with a prayer for compassion and love towards believers, despite differences in opinions.
Responsibility in the Work
By Stephen Kaung1.3K1:19:53ResponsibilityEPH 4:12PHP 1:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of putting oneself fully into God's work. He uses the parable of the householder hiring workers for his vineyard to illustrate this point. The speaker highlights that God's work requires many workers and that everyone should be engaged in it. He also emphasizes that the attitude and willingness to work diligently are what make a difference in God's work. The sermon concludes with an invitation for the audience to ask any questions they may have about responsibility in God's work.
Resting and Wrestling for the Cause of Christ—together
By John Piper1.3K43:30PSA 133:1MAT 11:28LUK 13:24JHN 12:25ACT 20:28ROM 15:30EPH 4:12HEB 10:24This sermon emphasizes the importance of healthy biblical doctrine and loving relationships within the body of Christ. It highlights the significance of small groups in fostering these relationships and the need for believers to strive together in prayer, wrestle against spiritual battles, and find rest and refreshment in community. The message encourages participation in small groups for mutual encouragement, sharing burdens, and multiplying joys in the journey of faith.
The Progressive Aspect of Sanctification
By John Murray1.2K51:59SanctificationEPH 4:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Ephesians 4:12-16, which emphasizes the importance of progressive edification in the body of Christ. The passage highlights the role of Christ in uniting and supplying the whole body of believers. The goal is for all believers to come to the unity of faith and knowledge of the Son of God, reaching maturity and conformity to the measure of Christ. The means to achieve this progression is through the work of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, who are called to perfect the saints for the work of ministry and the edification of the body of Christ.
The Reigning Authority of Jesus Christ in His Church
By Paris Reidhead1.2K34:56Headship Of JesusMAT 6:33EPH 4:12In this sermon, the preacher takes the audience back in time to an island in the Mediterranean 1800 years ago. He describes an elderly man who had a close relationship with Jesus and shares what this man wrote about his encounter with Jesus. The preacher then focuses on a passage from Ephesians 4, highlighting three points about the role of pastors, teachers, and evangelists in the church. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and fulfilling these roles for the perfecting, work, and edification of the saints. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the significance of scripture and the need to honor God in all things.
Studies in Ephesians - Part 4
By William MacDonald1.1K53:51StudiesEPH 4:7EPH 4:122TI 2:2In this sermon, the speaker outlines the structure of the book of Romans, dividing it into two parts. The first three chapters are referred to as the "doctrines of grace," which explain what believers are in Christ. The last three chapters, from chapter four to six, are called the "duty of grace," focusing on how believers should live in light of their position in Christ. The speaker emphasizes that God's purpose is for believers' practice to align with their standing, although perfect alignment will only be achieved when believers see Jesus face to face. The sermon also highlights the importance of passing on the teachings of the faith to faithful men, following the example of the Apostle Paul and Timothy.
What Is the True Nature of the Local Church
By Ralph Sutera1.1K1:10:20Local ChurchPRO 11:14MAT 18:20ACT 2:421CO 14:26EPH 4:121TI 4:13JAS 5:16The video discusses the topic of world evangelism and the three ways to witness to the world: love, unity, and joy. The speaker emphasizes that these are the only three ways God has outlined for us to share the message of the Gospel. The video also mentions a study manual that includes a worksheet for groups to use in applying these principles to their own lives. Additionally, the video touches on the importance of revival preceding evangelism and the role of the congregation in shaping the church's direction and ministry.
Satan and the Gospel
By Mariano Di Gangi1.1K28:34SatanISA 53:1MAT 6:332CO 4:1EPH 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the integrity of the gospel ministry. He highlights the need for a plain proclamation of the truth, without deception or distortion. The preacher also discusses the opposition faced by Christian ministry from Satan, who blinds the minds of unbelievers. Lastly, he emphasizes that Christian ministry should focus on benefiting the body of Christ and serving the Lord, rather than seeking to please men. The sermon references the Bible, particularly the teachings of Jesus in the Gospel of John and the prophet Isaiah.
The Kind of Preacher We Need
By Vance Havner94552:41PreachingMAT 11:2JHN 1:29JHN 7:37EPH 4:12REV 21:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the role of preachers in today's society. He mentions that while some may believe that the main job of a preacher is to equip laymen for their ministry, the Bible still emphasizes the need for preachers. The preacher also highlights the idea that in the end, only two lists will remain - the lost and the saved. He encourages listeners to switch from being lost to being saved through the offer of grace. Lastly, the preacher emphasizes the need for preachers to have an apocalyptic tone, similar to the book of Revelation, as we are living in a significant and challenging time.
Staying on Course
By George Verwer68352:55MAT 6:33ROM 12:1EPH 4:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of youth in God's work and encourages the audience to recognize the value of young people. The speaker also mentions the shift in focus within the organization OM, which started to prioritize family. Communication in marriage is highlighted as a crucial aspect that applies to all relationships, including teams and leaders. The sermon concludes with a prayer for increased compassion and love towards fellow believers, even when there are disagreements.
Life Forevermore, Part 2
By Thaddeus Barnum38726:26LifeMAT 6:33LUK 10:20LUK 18:18ACT 1:8EPH 4:12In this sermon, the preacher begins by addressing the audience's need to confront their secret lives and be set free by Jesus. He then highlights the current troubles in the country, referencing incidents in Minnesota, Baton Rouge, and Dallas. The preacher emphasizes the importance of following the commands of God and receiving the Holy Spirit's empowerment to proclaim the kingdom of God. He also mentions a wise and learned man who stands up, representing the elite class, and prays for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the church. The sermon references Acts 1:8 and uses a story about a woman finding expensive jewelry to illustrate the impact of commas in the Bible.
Moved by Jesus
By Stewart Ruch32022:09Spiritual LifePSA 37:4MAT 6:33MAT 9:36ACT 1:14ROM 12:2EPH 4:12JAS 5:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a personal connection with God. He highlights the need for individuals to be moved by Jesus' movement for them, rather than just externally pushed or compelled. The speaker shares about a conference with Iranian leaders where preaching Jesus is illegal, which prompts reflection on how we think about our time, life, and resources. The sermon also introduces a five-part series on equipping everyone for transformation, with a focus on a new life in Christ. The passage in Matthew 9 is referenced, highlighting Jesus' compassion and his movement towards those who are far from him.
Prayer for Our Generation
By Paris Reidhead20144:42PrayerMAT 28:19MRK 16:15JHN 15:4JHN 17:20JHN 20:21ACT 1:8EPH 4:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a witness for Christ in our daily lives. He refers to Jesus' instructions to abide in Him and the love of Christ that compels us to live for Him. The speaker uses the analogy of a light bulb being securely placed in a socket to illustrate the need for believers to be firmly rooted in Christ. He also highlights the opportunity we have to share our faith when people notice something different about us and express their curiosity. The sermon encourages every member of the body of Christ to engage in the task of being a witness for Him.
Every Believer Is Called to the Ministry
By Shane Idleman1152:02FaithfulnessMinistryMAT 25:40ACT 20:24ROM 12:11CO 12:12GAL 6:2EPH 4:12PHP 2:42TI 4:5JAS 1:221PE 4:10Shane Idleman emphasizes that every believer is called to ministry, highlighting the importance of fulfilling God's purpose in our lives to avoid feelings of dissatisfaction and discouragement. He encourages the congregation to recognize that ministry is not solely the pastor's responsibility but a calling for all Christians, regardless of the size or visibility of their efforts. Shane stresses that true ministry is measured by faithfulness rather than numbers, urging believers to serve those in need and to be open to God's leading in their lives. He reminds the audience that ministry often involves confronting uncomfortable truths and that God uses our weaknesses to help others. Ultimately, Shane calls for a commitment to serve and to share the love of Christ with those around us.
Christ Is All
By J.C. Ryle1MAT 24:1ROM 14:191CO 3:9EPH 2:21EPH 4:12EPH 4:16EPH 4:29Alexander Maclaren preaches on the concept of 'Building' (oikodome) as both a literal and metaphorical term, emphasizing the process of construction and edification. In Ephesians 2:21, oikodome symbolizes the church as a dwelling place for God's presence, highlighting spiritual strengthening and growth. The metaphor of building extends to various aspects including physical bodies, spiritual growth, and the collective body of Christ, stressing the importance of edifying one another. The word group of oikodome is used both literally and figuratively, illustrating the strengthening effect of teaching and example on individuals and the church as a whole.
Sharing the Love of Jesus
By David Wilkerson0Sharing the GospelEvangelismMAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 19:10JHN 15:16ACT 1:8ROM 10:142CO 5:20EPH 4:12COL 3:161TI 2:3David Wilkerson emphasizes the call for believers to share the love of Jesus and bear enduring fruit in their ministry. He highlights that Jesus appointed His disciples to preach the gospel and make disciples, urging believers to reach out to those around them with the truth of Christ. Many churchgoers may have a distorted view of Jesus, and it is crucial to present the true message of repentance and life through Him. The effectiveness of sharing the gospel lies in the presence of Jesus, which is facilitated by the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, sharing the love of Jesus aligns with God's desire for all to be saved and know the truth.
Letter: 4e 12 Miss Kingdom, Limerick, 1832
By John Nelson Darby0Importance of PrayerMinistry ChallengesISA 58:10MAT 25:40ROM 12:132CO 9:7GAL 6:9EPH 4:12PHP 1:31TH 5:172TI 4:2JAS 1:27John Nelson Darby writes to Miss Kingdom about his laborious ministry in Limerick, expressing the challenges of preaching the gospel amidst opposition and the need for constant prayer and support from fellow believers. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining communion with God and the church while working among the poor and those in need. Darby reflects on the blessings and struggles of his mission, urging Miss Kingdom to remain focused on serving others and to pray for the Spirit's guidance in their efforts. He shares his longing for the church in Plymouth and the joy he finds in their fellowship, despite the distance and challenges he faces.
Letter: 11e 31 G v Wigram, Edmondsbury, August 2nd 1839
By John Nelson Darby0Personal MinistryThe Role of the Holy SpiritMAT 28:19JHN 14:26ACT 20:20EPH 4:12PHP 4:19COL 3:161TH 5:112TI 2:15HEB 10:241PE 4:10John Nelson Darby emphasizes the sufficiency of the Lord in all aspects of life, highlighting the importance of personal ministry and visiting others as a vital part of Christian work. He argues that while public testimony is valuable, the private work of understanding and applying doctrine is essential for true ministry. Darby believes that the Holy Spirit guides individuals in applying truth to their personal needs, and warns against relying solely on public testimony without the foundation of private engagement. He encourages a focus on nurturing love and understanding within the community, as this is crucial for effective ministry.
The Logos of the Cross
By G.W. North0The CrossSpiritual GiftsJHN 1:14ROM 6:61CO 1:171CO 12:72CO 5:16GAL 2:20EPH 4:12PHP 3:10COL 2:14G.W. North emphasizes the significance of the 'Logos of the Cross' in understanding the power of God as expressed through the crucifixion of Christ. He explains that the effectiveness of spiritual gifts within the Church is intrinsically linked to the cross, asserting that true wisdom and power can only emerge from the crucified Christ. North highlights that the Word (Logos) of the Cross must precede the Word of Wisdom, as the essence of Christ's sacrifice is foundational for spiritual life and function. He warns that without embracing the cross, believers remain carnal and disconnected from God's true wisdom and power. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a recognition of the cross as central to the identity and operation of the Church.
Healings and Miracles
By G.W. North0Spiritual GiftsUnity in the Body of ChristMAT 17:20MRK 16:17JHN 14:13ROM 5:51CO 12:41CO 12:27EPH 4:12PHP 4:7JAS 5:141PE 4:10G.W. North emphasizes that every born-again believer has experienced the gifts of healing and miracles, which are manifestations of God's grace in their lives. He highlights the comfort and peace that come from the Holy Spirit, as well as the miraculous answers to prayer and provision that believers encounter. North explains that while these gifts may be given to a few, they are intended for the mutual benefit of the entire Body of Christ and ultimately for God's glory. He encourages believers to recognize that these gifts are not for personal pride but for the collective good of all. The sermon calls for unity and appreciation of the diverse gifts within the church, all empowered by the same Spirit.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the perfecting of the saints - For the complete instruction, purification, and union of all who have believed in Christ Jesus, both Jews and Gentiles. For the meaning of καταρτισμος, perfecting, see the note on Co2 13:9. For the work of the ministry - All these various officers, and the gifts and graces conferred upon them, were judged necessary, by the great Head of the Church, for its full instruction in the important doctrines of Christianity. The same officers and gifts are still necessary, and God gives them; but they do not know their places. In most Christian Churches there appears to be but one office, that of preacher; and one gift, that by which he professes to preach. The apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, are all compounded in the class preachers; and many, to whom God has given nothing but the gift of exhortation, take texts to explain them; and thus lose their time, and mar their ministry. Edifying of the body - The body of Christ is his Church, see Eph 2:20, etc.; and its edification consists in its thorough instruction in Divine things, and its being filled with faith and holiness.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--with a view to; the ultimate aim. "Unto." perfecting--The Greek implies correcting in all that is deficient, instructing and completing in number and all parts. for--a different Greek word; the immediate object. Compare Rom 15:2, "Let every one . . . please his neighbor for his good unto edification." the ministry--Greek, "ministration"; without the article. The office of the ministry is stated in this verse. The good aimed at in respect to the Church (Eph 4:13). The way of growth (Eph 4:14-16). edifying--that is, building up as the temple of the Holy Ghost.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the perfecting of the saints, The chosen ones, whom God has sanctified or set apart for himself in eternal election: the ministry of the word is designed for the completing the number of these in the effectual calling; and for the perfecting of the whole body of the church, by gathering in all that belong to it, and of every particular saint, who is regenerated and sanctified by the Spirit of God: for the best of saints are imperfect; for though there is a perfection in them, as that designs sincerity, in opposition to hypocrisy, and as it may be taken comparatively with respect to what others are, or they themselves were; and though there is a perfection of parts of the new man in them, yet not of degrees; and though there is a complete perfection in Christ, yet not in themselves, their sanctification is imperfect, as their faith, knowledge, love, &c. sin is in them, and committed by them, and they continually want supplies of grace; and the best of them are sensible of their imperfection, and own it: now the ministration of the word is a means of carrying on the work of grace in them unto perfection, or "for the restoring or joining in of the saints"; the elect of God were disjointed in Adam's fall, and scattered abroad, who were representatively gathered together in one head, even in Christ, in redemption; and the word is the means of the visible and open jointing of them into Christ, and into his churches, and also of restoring them after backslidings: for the work of the ministry; gifts are given unto men by Christ to qualify them for it: the preaching of the Gospel is a work, and a laborious one, and what no man is sufficient for of himself; it requires faithfulness, and is a good work, and when well performed, those concerned in it are worthy of respect, esteem, and honour; and it is a ministering work, a service and not dominion: for the edifying the body of Christ; not his natural body the Father prepared for him; nor his sacramental body in the supper; but his mystical body the church; and gifts are bestowed to fit them for the preaching of the Gospel, that hereby the church, which is compared to an edifice, might be built up; and that the several societies of Christians and particular believers might have spiritual edification, and walk in the fear of the Lord, and in the comforts of the Holy Ghost, and their numbers be increased, and their graces be in lively exercise.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:12 God’s gifts are given so that believers will build up the church (see 1 Cor 12:7; cp. 1 Pet 2:5). • to equip God’s people to do his work: All believers are called to active Christian service.