(quote from RealReality.org/Real_Faith_and_Reason_Vol_2_-_Scientia.pdf)

The body of Christ builds the body of Christ. Ephesians 4 and 1 Corinthians 14 explain that in some detail. These Scriptures go beyond the church service. You’ll notice, in Ephesians 4:11, there is the office of apostle and four ministries.

This office of apostle was lost to the church somewhere. This verse says it will be there until we come to unity and total completeness. That particular office brings authority to divine revelation and ends debate since the apostles walk in submission to each other and Christ. They must be set by Christ. They can’t call themselves. We can see the pattern of Scripture is not a pattern of independence or one person receiving an independent revelation and then trying to convince others of it. It’s not a pattern of a chief elder or chief apostle. When the office of apostle is fully restored, the apostles will receive and establish the doctrine. Many want to be apostles. Many are clamoring for the position. Many put the label on themselves.

We don’t have a universally accepted body of apostles who are called by God and receiving the revelation to equip the saints. Scripture indicates God will restore this office in the church. Meantime, we can encourage, build up, and comfort one another. We can learn how to hear God’s voice and yield to His righteousness in willing submission. During this time, we’re subject to misinterpretations of Scripture. We all are.

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