Ephesians 4:7-16
Chapter 4
Therefore, it is said: When he ascended on high, he made captivity itself a captive; he gave gifts to his people.
He ascended; does that mean he also descended to the lower parts of the world?
He himself, who went down, then ascended far above all the heavens to fill all things.
Regarding his gifts, to some he gave to be apostles; to others, prophets, evangelists, or pastors and teachers.
So, he prepared those who belong to him for the ministry to build up the Body of Christ,
until we are all united in the same faith and knowledge of the Son of God. In this way, we will become complete persons upon reaching maturity and sharing in the fullness of Christ.
Then, we will no longer be like children, tossed about by waves or wind of doctrine, and deceived by the cleverness of people who drag them into error.
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow in every way toward him who is the head—Christ.
From him comes the growth of the whole body, which is given order and cohesion by a network of joints, considering and utilizing the function of each part. Thus, the body builds itself in love.
Commentaries
Unity in the Body.
Paul begins the encouraging part of the letter by speaking with the authority given to him by his sufferings and imprisonment for Christ. If God has brought all men and women together in a single plan of salvation, at the heart of the Christian calling is a commitment to unity. This is expressed through concrete and practical behaviors such as humility, modesty, patience, and mutual endurance—virtues that promote love. Paul also shares essential messages. First, the leaders of the community are not chosen by the community; the Lord appoints them.
Second, being a bishop or a priest is not a position of privilege that allows one to live apart from others, but a ministry of ongoing service to the community.