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NASB | Ephesians 2:20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone, |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Ephesians 2:20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the [chief] Cornerstone, |
Subject: The foundation of the church |
Bible Note: Dear Joe! (twice! ;-)) Greetings in the name of Jesus! As you probably already know, I do not have much need for the modern 'capital-A, self-proclaimed, super-Apostle.' Indeed, the Apostles to the Lamb were twelve in number, witnesses and disciples of Christ, and Matthias was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot in Acts 1. Using this reference to set the requirements for all apostles is a bit thin, and there is little evidence that Paul was chosen to replace one of the Twelve. Barnabas, Andronicus, Junias, and James, the Lord's brother are named as apostles. While James may fit your requirements, proving the qualifications of the others is quite difficult. Ephesians 4:11-13 is (at least to me) speaking as if these ministies will continue to the purpose of 'building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith,' which I have yet to see. According to Ephesians, an apostle is a minister to the church, and looking to the clear examples of the Twelve, and the other named apostles, this ministry could very possibly be a present-day ministry. I propose that an apostle is a 'shepherd of shepherds,' an encourager of other ministers. I do not see this as a 'superior' ministry, or one to be flaunted and crowed about. In fact, from the Lord's exhortation (the last shall be first!) and Paul's example, an apostle should be the most humble and least exalted. I have met men that fit this description without the titles or trumpets. Whether they are called apostle or not, they are fulfilling the role portrayed in Scripture. Indeed, I am certain that apostolic ministry has always been in effect, and will be until the return of the Lord. But the true bearers of apostolic mantle will have no need to advertise it, or brandish it like a banner of greatness. Blessings to you, my brother, and 'Kirisuto ga umareta!' (Christ is born!) In Christ Jesus, charis |