Ephesians 4:12 Meaning and Explanation
“For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →These gifts are given to equip God's people for ministry and to build up Christ's body.
What Does Ephesians 4:12 Mean?
The purpose of these gifted servants is 'the perfecting of the saints' -- equipping God's people, mending and fitting them for service. Leaders are not given to do all the work themselves but to prepare the whole body for 'the work of the ministry.' Every member has a part.
The goal is 'the edifying of the body of Christ' -- its building up. The whole arrangement aims at growth. Christ gives gifted people, who equip all the saints, who then minister and build one another up. Ministry is not the task of a few but the calling of the entire body.
Ephesians 4:12 in the Original Language
katartismos (καταρτισμός), 'perfecting' -- equipping, making fully ready, mending into fitness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ephesians 4:12
What does Ephesians 4:12 mean?
These gifts are given to equip God's people for ministry and to build up Christ's body.