Eph 4:11-13

[David_McQueen]

[:"brown"] It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.[/]

Are these functions or offices?

What is the difference?

[Nicodema]

I believe they are offices that should ONLY be filled with those demonstrably able to perform the spiritual functions, that is, those who give evidence of possessing the spiritual gift appurtenant thereunto and have been trained or mentored in the practical application of said gift by another seasoned in its use within the body. (It goes without saying that any and all such offices are likewise only filled with those who put Christ first, last and center in all things, who are neither legalists nor lukewarms, who are known by their Love.)

[DaveM1936]

Office and function are similiar in meaning. But there are differences. Function refers more to the behavior of a person, to his natural gifts to perform the expected activity he will do. Office refers more to the duties a job would require of the one to fill it. The position one fills comes with certain responsiblites.

IMO, this text refers to the natural gifts God gives a person. Apostles, teacher, pastors, evangelists all require certain traits already instilled in the person.

Notice the purpose of all of them is the teach the layity out to witness.

Your friend,

Dave M