A Friend asked a question regarding Ephesians 4:11, which reads, “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers” (NKJV). Context is immeasurably important in every communication, and it is no less significant regarding biblical interpretation. In the case of Ephesians 4:11, part of the context pertains to the first century when true miracles occurred. Within its context, Ephesians 4:11 concerns different leadership roles in the early church wherein each of them was assisted by miracles, namely, apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors or elders and teachers. After miracles had served their purpose (Mark 16:20; John 20:30-31; Hebrews 2:3-4) and were no longer available (1 Corinthians 13:8-12; Ephesians 4:13), all church leaders must rely on the written Word of God rather than miraculous assistance to fulfill their respective duties.
Since the qualifications to be an apostle cannot be achieved by anyone living today (Acts 1:21-26; 22:14), there are no longer any living apostles. Besides, the miracles with which they were equipped are no longer available by which they could function as they did prior to the availability of the written Word of God. Prophets, in the sense of forth-tellers, are no longer available either in the absence of modern-day miracles. Although evangelists, pastors (elders) and teachers remain in the church in our time, they are no longer assisted by ongoing miracles. Instead, they must rely upon the Word of God both for their guidance in their congregational functions and for their teaching and leadership in the Lord’s church.
