Vincent's Word Studies in the NT

Ephesians 4:12

For the perfecting [π ρ ο ς τ ο ν κ α τ α ρ τ ι σ μ ο ν]. Only here in the New Testament. In classical Greek of refitting a ship or setting a bone. The preposition for denotes the ultimate purpose. Ministering and building are means to this end. Hence its emphatic position in the sentence. For perfecting, see on mending, Matthew 4:21; perfected, Matthew 21:16; Luke 6:40; 1 Peter 5:10. Compare 1 Corinthians 1:10; Hebrews 13:21. The radical idea of adjustment is brought out in ver. 13.

For the work of the ministry [ε ι ς ε ρ γ ο ν δ ι α κ ο ν ι α ς]. Rev., much better, unto the work of ministering. Eijv unto, marks the immediate purpose of the gift. He gave apostles, etc., unto the work of ministering and building, for the perfecting, etc. The prevailing sense of diakonia ministry, in the New Testament, is spiritual service of an official character. See Acts 1:25; Acts 6:4; Acts 20:24; Romans 11:13; 1 Timothy 1:12; 2 Timothy 4:5.

Edifying [ο ι κ ο δ ο μ η ν]. Rev., building up. See on Acts 20:32. Notice the combination of perfecting and building. Building defines the nature of the work of ministry, and perfecting comes through a process.

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Vincent's Word Studies in the NT

Ephesians 4:12

Old Testament

New Testament