Ephesians 4:12 – The preparation of the saints

…toward the adjusting of the saints for the work of dispensing for the upbuilding of the body of Christ…

We saw and will see that the dispensations that Paul mentioned (4:11) are all related to the time of “the apostles and prophets”. The generation in which the Word was preached and written down.

The first reason why these gifts were given is “ for the adjusting of the saints” The word for “adjusting” is translated elsewhere with attune or adept. In Matt 4:21 it is used for the sons of Zebedee who were busy putting their fishing nets in order. The idea is that Christ gave the gifts to prepare “the saint” (those who are set apart).

Make no mistake: “ the saints” had to be ‘reset’ now that Israel’s conversion had not taken place at that time. Just as fishing nets have to be restored for reuse, “the saints” had to be re-established for a new “program”. That is “the secret” that Paul reveals from prison. A demarcated Israel, separated from the nations, gave way to “the body of Christ” in which the two (Jew and gentile) were made one. Christ has equipped his ecclesia to prepare them for this new formation!

Delen: