"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 work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ"
(Ephesians 4:11-12 NKJV)

saints are equipped for spiritual work

1. "He Himself" emphasizes the actions of Jesus, the Giver.
2. The context of this passage discusses gifts that the Lord gave to men. Paul’s point begins in verse 7: “But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift.” The apostle’s revelation from God was in itself a most helpful and edifying gift (see Ephesians 3:2-4). Paul illustrates his point by referring to the Lord’s ascension after He rose from the dead, 8: “Therefore He says: ‘When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men.’”
3. Verse 11 lists five gifts that are profitable to the Ephesian church (and to us): “And He Himself gave some . . .” —
   1. Apostles. These are the Lord’s ambassadors. Paul became an apostle later than others, 1 Corinthians 15:8-10.
   2. Prophets. They served basically the same function for the new covenant that Old Testament prophets did for the old covenant. They spoke the word of God before the written revelation was completed (1 Corinthians 13-14).
   3. Evangelists. These are literally good news announcers.
   4. Pastors. Shepherds watch over a flock of sheep. Spiritual shepherds look out for Christians in a local congregation, Acts 20:28. “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you...” (1 Peter 5:2).
   5. Teachers. This general term applies to each of the preceding works. Paul himself was a teacher (1 Timothy 2:7).
4. We still have apostles and prophets...in the New Testament. We have evangelists, pastors (elders), and teachers living among us. Their common goal is to teach the truth. In doing this they save both themselves and those who hear (1 Timothy 4:16). It is in our best interest to listen and to obey.

– Rick Duggin