Ephesians 4:11 Meaning and Explanation
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The risen Christ hands His church the people it needs, each one a gift given to help the whole body grow.
The Context of Ephesians 4:11
Paul has just spoken of Christ ascending on high and giving gifts to His people (verses 7 to 10). Here he names some of those gifts, and the surprise is that the gifts are people, given for the good of the church described in the verses that follow.
What Does Ephesians 4:11 Mean?
Paul lists different callings: apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. The striking thing is the verb. Christ "gave" these. The people themselves are the gift. The church is not a building or a program but a living body, and the One who rose and ascended supplies it with the very people it needs to be healthy. Each role serves the others. Some are sent, some speak God's word, some carry the good news to those who have not heard, and some shepherd and teach the gathered flock.
The point is not the prestige of any office but the generosity of the Giver. Christ did not leave His people to fend for themselves. From His place of honor He pours out gifts, and many of those gifts walk on two feet and sit beside us. Every faithful teacher, every caring shepherd, every person who first told us about Jesus is a present from the hand of the risen Lord.
Ephesians 4:11 in the Original Language
didomi (δίδωμι), 'gave' -- to give freely as a gift, here making the people themselves the gift to the church.
How to Apply Ephesians 4:11 Today
When we think of what holds the church together, this verse points to a generous Christ who supplies the people we need. The teachers and shepherds and friends who pointed us to Jesus were His gifts to us. We can receive them with gratitude, and offer back whatever gift He has placed in our own hands.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ephesians 4:11
What does Ephesians 4:11 mean?
The risen Christ hands His church the people it needs, each one a gift given to help the whole body grow.
What is the context of Ephesians 4:11?
Paul has just spoken of Christ ascending on high and giving gifts to His people (verses 7 to 10). Here he names some of those gifts, and the surprise is that the gifts are people, given for the good of the church described in the verses that follow.
How can I apply Ephesians 4:11 today?
When we think of what holds the church together, this verse points to a generous Christ who supplies the people we need. The teachers and shepherds and friends who pointed us to Jesus were His gifts to us. We can receive them with gratitude, and offer back whatever gift He has placed in our own hands.