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NASB | Ephesians 4:8 Therefore it says, "WHEN HE ASCENDED ON HIGH, HE LED CAPTIVE A HOST OF CAPTIVES, AND HE GAVE GIFTS TO MEN." |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Ephesians 4:8 Therefore it says, "WHEN HE ASCENDED ON HIGH, HE LED CAPTIVITY CAPTIVE, AND HE BESTOWED GIFTS ON MEN." [Ps 68:18] |
Subject: What does men in Eph. 4:8 mean? |
Bible Note: It is true that the word "ekklesia" (usually translated "church") is used of Israel. It is used of secular gatherings, as well, (cf. Acts 19:32-41). In Acts 7:38, is the reference to a congregation of believers, unbelievers, or a mixed gathering? Anna was, however before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. We don't, like David, need to say, "Do not take your Holy Spirit from me." (Ps. 51:11) If we are saved, we have the Spirit (Romans 8:9). If we don't, we are not saved (Jude 19). Notice also that Anna was before the time when Jesus said, "I will build my church" (Matthew 16:18). In Matthew 16:18, by Jesus' own statement, we know that the church was not in existence, yet. By the time of Acts 2:47 (NKJV or 5:11 in the NASB) it had begun. If you don't mind my saying so, saying "God uses them to speak to His people" might be true, but it is not quite complete. God also uses donkeys and unbelievers (Numbers 22, John 11:49-53). Did they lose this privilege? In the church, there is (or should be) order.(1 Cor 14:40) |