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NASB | Ephesians 4:11 And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Ephesians 4:11 And [His gifts to the church were varied and] He Himself appointed some as apostles [special messengers, representatives], some as prophets [who speak a new message from God to the people], some as evangelists [who spread the good news of salvation], and some as pastors and teachers [to shepherd and guide and instruct], |
Bible Question (short): So, no ministries at all? |
Question (full): Dear RayV.H., I agree that a body without division is God's desire, and that the foundation for ministry in the church is already laid in the Bible. But, if I am reading your replies correctly, you are saying that there are no longer any ministries at all? All are priests, so ministers and ministries are unnecessary? Is it not true, then, that the local church would have no 'members' chosen by God to perform specific tasks? Frankly, it sounds like chaos, with no commitment and responsibility to one another, and no 'talents' used for His glory. "For the body is not one member, but many. But now God has placed the members, each one of them, in the body, just as He desired. Now you are Christ's body, and individually members of it." 1Corinthians 12:14, 18, 27 NASB. I think you answered my question, but I am not sure. If you are saying what I think you are saying, then every believer is a 'one-man-show,' and the 'many-membered body' is invalid. Every person has his Bible, and acts as he feels the Bible tells him. Though I see little scriptural argument for denominational hierarchy over the local church, I am quite certain that there must be some orderly separation of responsibility within the local church. Thank you for your comments, and bless your path in Christ Jesus. charis |