Do you ever have the tendency to rebel against authority? Something about that “don’t walk on the grass” sign that makes you want to take a stroll there! Yet we know that life would be chaotic if there wasn’t structure and persons in authority. Paul states—“God has appointed in the church, first apostles, second prophets, third teachers…” (1 Cor. 12:28).
Some of the members in Corinth, who were proud of their visible gifts, paraded them in the assembly with little concern for the edification of the body. They saw their signs of their advanced spirituality and not as the evidence of God’s grace enabling them to edify others in the congregation. They had little regard for Paul and other apostles (4:6-13).
After asserting that God has composed the body as He desired, Paul concludes chapter 12 by listing gifted leaders that God has appointed for the church. It is not insignificant that he lists apostles, prophets, and teachers first with a numerical reference. He wanted everyone to understand that leaders are gifted by God and placed in the church by Him for the good of the body. In Ephesians 4:11-12 Paul explains that the gifted leaders equip gifted members for service in the body.
Isn’t it wonderful that God has composed the body for effective ministry?
Prayer: Thank you for the leaders you have given to your church for the equipping of the saints. Help me to encourage them as they minister for you. Amen