![]() ![]() Note how some commentaries explain the passages in Ephesians and 1 Corinthians: We read that the gospel to the uncircumcision was entrusted to Paul, while the gospel of the circumcision was entrusted to Peter (Galatians 2:7-8). These would have included Peter and James, the half-brother of Jesus (compare Galatians 1:18-19). ![]() He even clarified that there were “ranks” and different functions within the office of “apostle,” calling some of the apostles “chiefest apostles” (Authorized Version) or “most eminent apostles” (2 Corinthians 11:5 12:11). He is also described as a prophet and a teacher in Acts 13:1. We read that Paul referred to himself as an apostle and a preacher and a teacher (1 Timothy 2:7). Function and rank are not mutually exclusive. The truth is that these passages address BOTH. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?” (1 Corinthians 12:28-30).Įspecially those commentaries that advocate democratic government by all Church members feel that these Scriptures describe only ministerial functions, independent of ranks. “And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints…for the edifying of the body of Christ till we all come to the unity of the faith…” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Ephesians 4:11 and 1 Corinthians 12:28, show that God has ordained ministerial “ranks” within His Church. With that background, let us answer the question regarding ranks within the ministry.Įspecially two Scriptures, i.e. This is more fully explained in our Q&A on “hierarchical government.” God has decreed that His Church be led or “governed” by His true and faithful ministry, as discussed in our Q&A on “ministerial authority.” The short answer is, “Yes.” Before discussing this biblical fact in more detail, let us just emphasize that there is hierarchy in God’s Church. ![]()
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