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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comVincent Word Studies - Ephesians 4:12 - 4:12
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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
For the perfecting (πρὸς τὸν καταρτισμὸν)
Only here in the New Testament. In classical Greek of refitting a ship or setting a bone. The preposition for denotes the ultimate purpose. Ministering and building are means to this end. Hence its emphatic position in the sentence. For perfecting, see on mending, Mat 4:21; see on perfected, Mat 21:16; see on Luk 6:40; see on 1Pe 5:10. Compare 1Co 1:10; Heb 13:21. The radical idea of adjustment is brought out in Eph 4:13.
For the work of the ministry (εἰς ἔργον διακονίας)
Rev., much better, unto the work of ministering. Εἰς unto, marks the immediate purpose of the gift. He gave apostles, etc., unto the work of ministering and building, for the perfecting, etc. The prevailing sense of διακονία ministry, in the New Testament, is spiritual service of an official character. See Act 1:25; Act 6:4; Act 20:24; Rom 11:13; 1Ti 1:12; 2Ti 4:5.
Edifying (οἰκοδομὴν)
Rev., building up. See on Act 20:32. Notice the combination of perfecting and building. Building defines the nature of the work of ministry, and perfecting comes through a process.