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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Ephesians 4:11 And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers,</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/ephesians/4-11.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/18/49_Eph_04_11.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Ephesians 4:11 - Unity in the Body" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers," /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; 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and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; <a href="/nkjv/ephesians/4.htm">New King James Version</a> And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, <a href="/nasb_/ephesians/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> And He gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, some as pastors and teachers, <a href="/nasb/ephesians/4.htm">NASB 1995</a> And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, <a href="/nasb77/ephesians/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a> And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, <a href="/lsb/ephesians/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> And He Himself gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, <a href="/amp/ephesians/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a> 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], <a href="/csb/ephesians/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> And he himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, <a href="/hcsb/ephesians/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> And He personally gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, <a href="/asv/ephesians/4.htm">American Standard Version</a> And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; <a href="/cev/ephesians/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Christ chose some of us to be apostles, prophets, missionaries, pastors, and teachers, <a href="/erv/ephesians/4.htm">English Revised Version</a> And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; <a href="/gwt/ephesians/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> He also gave apostles, prophets, missionaries, as well as pastors and teachers as gifts [to his church]. <a href="/gnt/ephesians/4.htm">Good News Translation</a> It was he who "gave gifts to people"; he appointed some to be apostles, others to be prophets, others to be evangelists, others to be pastors and teachers. <a href="/isv/ephesians/4.htm">International Standard Version</a> And it is he who gifted some to be apostles, others to be prophets, others to be evangelists, and still others to be pastors and teachers, <a href="/msb/ephesians/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, <a href="/net/ephesians/4.htm">NET Bible</a> It was he who gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, <a href="/nheb/ephesians/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> He gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; <a href="/wbt/ephesians/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; <a href="/wey/ephesians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> And He Himself appointed some to be Apostles, some to be Prophets, some to be evangelists, some to be pastors and teachers, <a href="/web/ephesians/4.htm">World English Bible</a> He gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, shepherds and teachers; <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/ephesians/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] proclaimers of good news, and some [as] shepherds and teachers, <a href="/blb/ephesians/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And He gave some indeed to be apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some shepherds and teachers, <a href="/ylt/ephesians/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as proclaimers of good news, and some as shepherds and teachers, <a href="/slt/ephesians/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And truly he gave the sent; and the prophets; and the bearers of good tidings; and the shepherds, and the teachers;<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/ephesians/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And he gave some apostles, and some prophets, and other some evangelists, and other some pastors and doctors, <a href="/cpdv/ephesians/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And the same one granted that some would be Apostles, and some Prophets, yet truly others evangelists, and others pastors and teachers, <a href="/nabre/ephesians/4.htm">New American Bible</a> And he gave some as apostles, others as prophets, others as evangelists, others as pastors and teachers, <a href="/nrsvce/ephesians/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers,<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/ephesians/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And he has assigned some, apostles, and some, prophets, and some, evangelists, and some, pastors, and some, teachers; <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/ephesians/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> And he gave some who are Apostles and some who are Prophets and some who are Evangelists and some who are Pastors and some who are Teachers,<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/ephesians/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> And he himself gave some to be apostles, and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; <a href="/godbey/ephesians/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> And he gave some, apostles; some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; <a href="/haweis/ephesians/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> And he himself appointed, some indeed apostles, and some prophets; and others preachers of the Gospel; and others pastors and teachers; <a href="/mace/ephesians/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a> It is he then that made some, apostles: some, prophets: some, evangelists: and others, pastors, and teachers: <a href="/wey/ephesians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> And He Himself appointed some to be Apostles, some to be Prophets, some to be evangelists, some to be pastors and teachers, <a href="/worrell/ephesians/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> And He gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; <a href="/worsley/ephesians/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> And therefore He gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers; to qualify holy men for the work of the ministry, <a href="/parallel/ephesians/4-11.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AfeSHen3sAQ?start=635" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/ephesians/4.htm">Unity in the Body</a> …10He who descended is the very One who ascended above all the heavens, in order to fill all things. 11<a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: Kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">And</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autos (PPro-NM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">it was He who</a> <a href="/greek/1325.htm" title="1325: edōken (V-AIA-3S) -- To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give.">gave</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tous (Art-AMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">some</a> <a href="/greek/3303.htm" title="3303: men (Conj) -- A primary particle; properly, indicative of affirmation or concession; usually followed by a contrasted clause with de."></a> <a href="/greek/652.htm" title="652: apostolous (N-AMP) -- From apostello; a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ.">to be apostles,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tous (Art-AMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">some</a> <a href="/greek/4396.htm" title="4396: prophētas (N-AMP) -- From a compound of pro and phemi; a foreteller; by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet.">to be prophets,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tous (Art-AMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">some</a> <a href="/greek/2099.htm" title="2099: euangelistas (N-AMP) -- An evangelist, a missionary, bearer of good tidings. From euaggelizo; a preacher of the gospel.">to be evangelists,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">and</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tous (Art-AMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">some</a> <a href="/greek/4166.htm" title="4166: poimenas (N-AMP) -- A shepherd; hence met: of the feeder, protector, and ruler of a flock of men. Of uncertain affinity; a shepherd.">to be pastors</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/1320.htm" title="1320: didaskalous (N-AMP) -- A teacher, master. From didasko; an instructor.">teachers,</a> 12to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ,…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/1_corinthians/12-28.htm">1 Corinthians 12:28-29</a> And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, and those with gifts of healing, helping, administration, and various tongues. / Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? <a href="/romans/12-6.htm">Romans 12:6-8</a> We have different gifts according to the grace given us. If one’s gift is prophecy, let him use it in proportion to his faith; / if it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; / if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is giving, let him give generously; if it is leading, let him lead with diligence; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. <a href="/1_peter/4-10.htm">1 Peter 4:10-11</a> As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another. / If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. <a href="/acts/13-1.htm">Acts 13:1</a> Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch), and Saul. <a href="/1_timothy/2-7.htm">1 Timothy 2:7</a> For this reason I was appointed as a preacher, an apostle, and a faithful and true teacher of the Gentiles. I am telling the truth; I am not lying about anything. <a href="/2_timothy/1-11.htm">2 Timothy 1:11</a> to which I was appointed as a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher. <a href="/1_corinthians/14-26.htm">1 Corinthians 14:26</a> What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a psalm or a teaching, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. All of these must be done to build up the church. <a href="/1_corinthians/3-5.htm">1 Corinthians 3:5-9</a> What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? They are servants through whom you believed, as the Lord has assigned to each his role. / I planted the seed and Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. / So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. ... <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-12.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:12-13</a> But we ask you, brothers, to acknowledge those who work diligently among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. / In love, hold them in highest regard because of their work. Live in peace with one another. <a href="/hebrews/13-7.htm">Hebrews 13:7</a> Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. <a href="/jeremiah/3-15.htm">Jeremiah 3:15</a> Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” <a href="/matthew/28-19.htm">Matthew 28:19-20</a> Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, / and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” <a href="/john/20-21.htm">John 20:21</a> Again Jesus said to them, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you.” <a href="/acts/20-28.htm">Acts 20:28</a> Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood. <a href="/1_corinthians/9-14.htm">1 Corinthians 9:14</a> In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;he.<a href="/ephesians/4-8.htm">Ephesians 4:8</a> Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.<a href="/ephesians/2-20.htm">Ephesians 2:20</a> And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;<a href="/ephesians/3-5.htm">Ephesians 3:5</a> Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;evangelists.<a href="/acts/21-8.htm">Acts 21:8</a> And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.<a href="/2_timothy/4-5.htm">2 Timothy 4:5</a> But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.pastors.<a href="/2_chronicles/15-3.htm">2 Chronicles 15:3</a> Now for a long season Israel hath been without the true God, and without a teaching priest, and without law.<a href="/jeremiah/3-15.htm">Jeremiah 3:15</a> And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.<a href="/matthew/28-20.htm">Matthew 28:20</a> Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/ephesians/3-5.htm">Apostles</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-7.htm">Appointed</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-3.htm">Care</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-8.htm">Gifts</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-8.htm">Good</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-8.htm">News</a> <a href="/jeremiah/23-2.htm">Pastors</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-14.htm">Preachers</a> <a href="/psalms/68-11.htm">Proclaimers</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-5.htm">Prophets</a> <a href="/acts/20-28.htm">Shepherds</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-17.htm">Teachers</a> <a href="/galatians/6-6.htm">Teaching</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-6.htm">Apostles</a> <a href="/philippians/1-16.htm">Appointed</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-15.htm">Care</a> <a href="/philippians/2-30.htm">Gifts</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-28.htm">Good</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-15.htm">News</a> <a href="/jeremiah/2-8.htm">Pastors</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-14.htm">Preachers</a> <a href="/psalms/68-11.htm">Proclaimers</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-15.htm">Prophets</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-2.htm">Shepherds</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-7.htm">Teachers</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-20.htm">Teaching</a><div class="vheading2">Ephesians 4</div>1. <a href="/ephesians/4-1.htm">He exhorts to unity;</a> 7. <a href="/ephesians/4-7.htm">and declares that God therefore gives various gifts unto men;</a> 11. <a href="/ephesians/4-11.htm">that his church might be edified,</a> 16. <a href="/ephesians/4-16.htm">and grow up in Christ.</a> 18. <a href="/ephesians/4-18.htm">He calls them from the impurity of the Gentiles;</a> 24. <a href="/ephesians/4-24.htm">to put on the new man;</a> 25. <a href="/ephesians/4-25.htm">to cast off lying;</a> 29. <a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">and corrupt communication.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/ephesians/4.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/ephesians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/ephesians/4.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>And it was He who gave This phrase emphasizes the divine origin of spiritual gifts and roles within the church. The "He" refers to Christ, who, after His ascension, distributed gifts to His followers. This aligns with <a href="/ephesians/4-7.htm">Ephesians 4:7-10</a>, where Paul discusses Christ's authority to give gifts. The giving of these roles is an act of grace and sovereignty, highlighting that these positions are not self-appointed but divinely ordained.some to be apostles Apostles were foundational to the early church, serving as Christ's messengers and witnesses to His resurrection. The term "apostle" means "one who is sent out." The original apostles were chosen by Jesus, including Paul, who was called later. Their role was to establish churches and provide authoritative teaching. This office is closely linked to the New Testament's formation, as many apostles contributed to its writings.some to be prophets Prophets in the New Testament context were those who received direct revelation from God to edify, exhort, and comfort the church. This role is seen as a continuation of the Old Testament prophetic tradition, though with a focus on the church's edification. Prophets played a crucial role in the early church, as seen in <a href="/acts/11-27.htm">Acts 11:27-28 and 21</a>:10-11, where they provided guidance and warnings.some to be evangelists Evangelists are those specially gifted to proclaim the gospel and bring others to faith in Christ. This role is exemplified by figures like Philip in <a href="/acts/21-8.htm">Acts 21:8</a>, who traveled to spread the good news. Evangelists are essential for the church's growth and expansion, focusing on outreach and conversion.and some to be pastors and teachers The roles of pastors and teachers are often linked, suggesting a dual function of shepherding and instructing the church. Pastors, or shepherds, are responsible for the spiritual care and guidance of the congregation, akin to the shepherd imagery used throughout Scripture (e.g., <a href="/psalms/23.htm">Psalm 23</a>, <a href="/john/10.htm">John 10</a>). Teachers are tasked with explaining and applying biblical doctrine, ensuring the church's doctrinal soundness. This dual role is vital for nurturing and equipping believers for service.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/a/apostles.htm">Apostles</a> These were the foundational leaders in the early church, chosen by Christ to spread the Gospel and establish churches. The term "apostle" comes from the Greek word "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent out." 2. <a href="/topical/p/prophets.htm">Prophets</a> In the New Testament context, prophets were those who received direct revelation from God to edify, exhort, and comfort the church. The Greek word "prophetes" means "one who speaks forth." 3. <a href="/topical/e/evangelists.htm">Evangelists</a> These individuals were specially gifted to proclaim the Gospel and bring others to faith in Christ. The Greek term "euangelistes" refers to a "bringer of good news." 4. <a href="/topical/p/pastors.htm">Pastors</a> Also known as shepherds, pastors are responsible for the spiritual care and guidance of a congregation. The Greek word "poimen" means "shepherd." 5. <a href="/topical/t/teachers.htm">Teachers</a> These are those who are gifted in explaining and applying the truths of Scripture. The Greek word "didaskalos" means "instructor" or "teacher."<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/d/diversity_of_gifts.htm">Diversity of Gifts</a> God has equipped the church with a variety of roles and gifts to ensure its growth and maturity. Each role is vital and should be valued. <a href="/topical/p/purpose_of_gifts.htm">Purpose of Gifts</a> The primary purpose of these roles is to equip the saints for the work of ministry and to build up the body of Christ. This underscores the importance of unity and cooperation within the church. <a href="/topical/r/role_of_leadership.htm">Role of Leadership</a> Church leaders are called to shepherd and teach, guiding believers in their spiritual growth and helping them to discover and use their own gifts. <a href="/topical/e/equipping_the_saints.htm">Equipping the Saints</a> Every believer has a role to play in the church. Leaders are tasked with equipping others to serve, emphasizing the communal nature of ministry. <a href="/topical/u/unity_in_diversity.htm">Unity in Diversity</a> While there are different roles and gifts, they all work together for the common goal of glorifying God and advancing His kingdom.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_ephesians_4.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Ephesians 4</a> <a href="/q/how_does_god_call_to_ministry.htm">How does God call individuals to ministry?</a> <a href="/q/how_to_address_pastor_criticism.htm">How should church members address criticism of their pastor?</a> <a href="/q/must_we_follow_our_pastor's_guidance.htm">Must we follow our pastor's guidance?</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_a_cleric.htm">What defines a cleric?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/ephesians/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(11) He gave.--In the original "He" is emphatic--He and He alone, as the ascended Head of humanity. The word "gave," instead of the more obvious word set, or appointed (used in <a href="/1_corinthians/12-28.htm" title="And God has set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.">1Corinthians 12:28</a>), is, of course, suggested by <a href="/ephesians/4-8.htm" title="Why he said, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts to men.">Ephesians 4:8</a>. They who are ministers of His gifts are themselves gifts from Him to the Church.Some, apostles; and some, prophets . . .--With this passage we must compare <a href="/1_corinthians/12-28.htm" title="And God has set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.">1Corinthians 12:28</a>, "God hath set some in the Church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings," &c.; and, perhaps, <a href="/context/romans/12-6.htm" title="Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;">Romans 12:6-8</a>, "Having then gifts . . . whether prophecy . . . or ministry . . . or teaching . . . or exhortation . . .," although this last passage is lass formally apposite. In all three cases there is the same general idea, first of the one body, and then of the one Spirit, guiding and animating it through various ministries. The parallel between this passage and the passage in 1 Cor. is very close; for in the latter all that follows the words "after that" may be put aside, as describing, not special offices or ministries, but special gifts. We have, therefore, in both, "first apostles, secondly prophets." Then come, in the earlier Epistle, "teachers;" and this class, in our own later Epistle, is subdivided into "evangelists" and "pastors," both being teachers--the one in conversion of those still aliens from Christ, the other in edification of those already brought into His flock.Some, apostles.--The name "apostles" is certainly used here in its technical and restricted sense, as applying to the Twelve, whom "the Apostle" of God Himself (<a href="/hebrews/3-1.htm" title="Why, holy brothers, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;">Hebrews 3:1</a>) named as His Apostles (<a href="/luke/6-13.htm" title="And when it was day, he called to him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;">Luke 6:13</a>), and with whom St. Paul claims equality (see <a href="/1_corinthians/9-1.htm" title="Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not you my work in the Lord?">1Corinthians 9:1</a>; <a href="/context/1_corinthians/15-9.htm" title="For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.">1Corinthians 15:9-11</a>; <a href="/galatians/1-1.htm" title="Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)">Galatians 1:1</a>) on the ground of his own special mission and revelation from the same Lord. It is, indeed, used in a wider sense; sometimes with words distinctly implying a derivation and human mission, as in <a href="/2_corinthians/8-23.htm" title="Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellow helper concerning you: or our brothers be inquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.">2Corinthians 8:23</a>, "apostles (or, messengers) of the churches;" <a href="/philippians/2-25.htm" title="Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labor, and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.">Philippians 2:25</a>, "Epaphroditus, your apostle (or, messenger);" sometimes without such qualification, as in <a href="/2_corinthians/11-5.htm" title="For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very most chief apostles.">2Corinthians 11:5</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/11-13.htm" title="For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.">2Corinthians 11:13</a>; <a href="/context/2_corinthians/12-11.htm" title="I am become a fool in glorying; you have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very most chief apostles, though I be nothing.">2Corinthians 12:11-12</a>; <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-7.htm" title="But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherishes her children:">1Thessalonians 2:7</a>; and, perhaps, <a href="/romans/16-7.htm" title="Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.">Romans 16:7</a>. But such use is rare, and cannot be applied to a passage like this, which is distinctive of a special and primary class. In direct charge from the Lord, universal scope of mission, special inspiration and power of miracle, which are "the signs of an apostle" (<a href="/2_corinthians/12-12.htm" title="Truly the signs of an apostle were worked among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.">2Corinthians 12:12</a>), the Apostles, properly so called, stood out in office absolutely unique and supreme. What was said of the first age of the Church is true of all ages--"of the rest durst no man join himself unto them" (<a href="/acts/5-13.htm" title="And of the rest dared no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.">Acts 5:13</a>). . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ephesians/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 11. - And he gave some (to be) apostles. Coming back to the diversity of gifts (ver. 7), He enumerates some of these, as Christ (αὐτὸς, he, emphatic) bestowed them. The organization of the Church is not a mere human arrangement; its officers are of Divine appointment. The first gift is, his apostles. It is not meant that he gave to some the gifts needed to constitute them apostles, though that is true; but that, having qualified some to be apostles, he gave them to the Church. An apostle had his commission direct from Christ (<a href="/matthew/10-5.htm">Matthew 10:5</a>); he possessed supernatural gifts (<a href="/matthew/10-8.htm">Matthew 10:8</a>); it was necessary for him to have seen the Lord (<a href="/acts/1-22.htm">Acts 1:22</a>); his diocese was the whole world (<a href="/matthew/28-19.htm">Matthew 28:19</a>; <a href="/mark/16-15.htm">Mark 16:15</a>). The apostles were the constituent body of the Church - they had all necessary gifts for setting it up, and as all Christian history has testified, they were a marvelous gift of Christ to his Church. And some, prophets. Next to the apostles in point of value, as gifts to the Church, having supernatural knowledge of God's will present and future (<a href="/acts/21-11.htm">Acts 21:11</a>). Prophets were indispensable before the New Testament was given as the Church's infallible guide to the will of God, but not apparently necessary after the will of God was fully recorded. And some, evangelists. The nature of this office is known only from the meaning of the term and the work of those who bore the designation (<a href="/acts/21-8.htm">Acts 21:8</a>; <a href="/2_timothy/4-5.htm">2 Timothy 4:5</a>) - persons not attached to a particular congregation, but who went about preaching the glad tidings, and otherwise building up the Church, but without the full powers of apostles. And some, pastors and teachers. The more ordinary settled ministers of congregations, called pastors, because they watched over the flock, trying to lead all in right ways; and teachers, because they communicated Divine knowledge. Some have thought that each expression denotes a separate office, but, coupled as they are together, it is better to regard them as indicating two functions of one office (see <a href="/1_timothy/5-17.htm">1 Timothy 5:17</a>; <a href="/acts/13-1.htm">Acts 13:1</a>). <a href="/commentaries/ephesians/4-11.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>And Καὶ (Kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. [it was] He who αὐτὸς (autos) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. gave ἔδωκεν (edōken) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1325.htm">Strong's 1325: </a> To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give. some τοὺς (tous) Article - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. [to be] apostles, ἀποστόλους (apostolous) Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_652.htm">Strong's 652: </a> From apostello; a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ. some τοὺς (tous) Article - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. [to be] prophets, προφήτας (prophētas) Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4396.htm">Strong's 4396: </a> From a compound of pro and phemi; a foreteller; by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet. some τοὺς (tous) Article - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. [to be] evangelists, εὐαγγελιστάς (euangelistas) Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2099.htm">Strong's 2099: </a> An evangelist, a missionary, bearer of good tidings. From euaggelizo; a preacher of the gospel. and δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. some τοὺς (tous) Article - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. [to be] pastors ποιμένας (poimenas) Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4166.htm">Strong's 4166: </a> A shepherd; hence met: of the feeder, protector, and ruler of a flock of men. Of uncertain affinity; a shepherd. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. teachers, διδασκάλους (didaskalous) Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1320.htm">Strong's 1320: </a> A teacher, master. From didasko; an instructor. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-11.htm">NT Letters: Ephesians 4:11 He gave some to be apostles (Ephes. Eph. Ep) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/ephesians/4-10.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Ephesians 4:10"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Ephesians 4:10" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/ephesians/4-12.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Ephesians 4:12"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Ephesians 4:12" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>