The Four Eleven Foundation: 1 Thessalonians

3.4. DESCRIBED AS GRACED IN GIFTINGS (Ephesians 4:7-16)

Grace is given according to the gifting received.

Ephesians 4:7 "But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ."

Gifting is not for a few members of Christ's body, the Church. The "every one" refers to every true believer (Romans 12:4; 1 Corinthians 12:7; 1 Peter 4:10 ). There is something for each to do, and all are needed. While in the body service can never said to be over. According to the gifting, grace is given to enable the exercising of the gift. The measure of grace to do more abundantly matches that which we are given to do.

3.4.1. WITH HIS ASCENSION HE BECAME THE GIVER OF GIFTS (Ephesians 4:8-10)

Bestowal of gifts is connected with the triumph of a conquering Saviour.

Ephesians 4:8 "... When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men."

His achievement of wonderful triumphs placed Him at the throne - all power being given to Him, He became the Giver of gifts. As the great conqueror He ascended and led captivity captive. The idea taken from Psalm 68:18 is meant to picture for us the triumphant Christ ascending to the throne - that He arrived with all the glory and splendour of the mighty Victor receiving heaven's adoration.

There are many teachers who hold the view that these captives were the Old Testament saints who, up until the ascension were held in paradise (Luke 16:23 ). When the believer now dies he goes to be with Christ (Philippians 1:21-24; 2 Corinthians 5:8 ). Because Christ Jesus descended and triumphantly ascended, He became the gift bestower.

Ephesians 4:9,10 "(Now this, "He ascended"; what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the earth? ¹⁰ He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.)"

"Descent" refers to Christ's coming to earth, His incarnation, His death for sinners, followed by His resurrection. "Ascended" that is in contrast to His descent to the lowest - to exaltation to the highest as Lord of all (Philippians 2:5-11 ). The grand purpose is stated to be "that He might fill all things" as the source and fountain of all, filling all. This includes that:

He Ascended As The Exalted Head Of A New Creation
Giving life to every one who believes on Him (Romans 5:12-15; 1 Corinthians 15:45; 2 Corinthians 5:17 ).

He Ascended As The Exalted Head Of His Body The Church
(Colossians 1:18,24 ). Filling up its purpose, giving direction, nurturing it, giving spiritual gifts and ministries for its growth.

He Ascended As The Chief Shepherd Of The Sheep
Appointing and overseeing, administrating by the Spirit His undershepherds, who He will reward (1 Peter 5:1-4 ).

He Ascended As The True Vine
He is fulfilling His Father's expectation in making His people - His branch, bear fruit, much fruit, remaining fruitful (John 15:4,8,16 ).

He Ascended As The Chief Cornerstone
He gives life and security to His living stones, His people the temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:11; 1 Peter 2:4-8 ).

He Ascended As Exalted High Priest
He ever lives and makes intercession for His redeemed people - making their royal priesthood effective (1 Peter 2:5-9 ).

He Ascended As The Exalted Bridegroom
He is preparing for His bride the Church, and by His Spirit, working her preparedness (John 14:1-4; Ephesians 5:25-27 ).

We may not comprehend fully what is included in "fill all things" but of this we can be sure, our eternal wellbeing, satisfaction and involvement are at the loving heart of all things that He fills (John 17:24 ).

QUESTIONS FOR GROUP INTERACTION

Do you know your body gifting?
Have you proved that abundant grace is given you to exercise your gifting? (Ephesians 4:7 ).