Microsoft Word - Apostolic Alignment

Ephesians 2 Apostles versus Ephesians 4 Apostles. Ephesians 2:20 KJV - And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone. It seems clear to me that the list of Five-Fold Ministers in Ephesians chapter 4 is referring to the ascension gifts given by Jesus in each generation until He comes back to receive the church. But I believe that, kept in context, the Ephesians 2:20 apostles being discussed are the "12 Apostles of The Lamb," because the church is built upon their original writings. I believe the FOUNDATION Paul is referring to here is the FOUNDATION of the New Testament Apostles' writings, and the Old Testament Prophets writings. I do NOT believe it would be wise to say that the church is built upon the foundation of modern day apostles and prophets, although I do concede that the passage here does give us a clue as to the foundational nature of apostles as compared to some of the other five fold offices. However, I do NOT think Paul would tell us to build our lives upon the foundation of modern apostles and prophets, which in my mind would be akin to replacing, or at least competing with, the final authority of the scriptures written by OT prophets and NT apostles.

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