Ace
Line upon line, precept upon precept, I found I don't know half what I thought I knew in my younger years, but God gives line upon line etc. I have learned I hold my base understanding but never close my eyes that I might not understand or have all understanding of some things. sometimes it is hard to not be tossed by every wind of doctrine but on the same hand we must study to show ourselves approved, rightly dividing the word.
I truly beleive that Paul was speaking of gift, of the spirit in
Ephesians 4, not offices of authority.
Decons, Elders, and Bishops were chosen (ordained) by the church, to take care of the day to day administrative functions of the body of christ. God would work through the gifts in the assembly and individualy, in a manor that no one person could be lifted up above another in a position of spiritual leadership. As God held this for himself.
Hence Paul did not instruct one to become a prophet, rather to seek prophecy one of the several gifts of the spirit.
Just my thoughts.
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