Expert: Edward Bode - 4/22/2005

Question
Hello. In Ephesians 4:11 and I Cor 12:28, why does Paul talk about the importance of apostles and prophets in the Church when the Catholic Church doesn't have these titles for anyone? Was he talking about a different church other than the one instituted by Christ?

Answer
Paul is talking about the church established by Jesus, messiah and Lord.
Paul uses the word apostle more than 20 times in his letters.  From his usage, one gets the idea that an apostle is a person called by Jesus for missionary work and also probably a person who had seen the [risen]Lord.  So, for Paul the title of apostle was not restricted to the Twelve.
Prophets in the Old Testament were persons who delivered the word of God.  The New Testament usage is somewhat vague but may refer to local [not missionary] persons.  See 1 Cor 14:22-33 for Paul's understanding of prophets at the liturgy.
The role of apostle was limited to the immediate time after the death of Jesus.  The role of prophet fell into non-use.
By the second century, bishops, priests, and deacons became the titles for those in positions of authority and in the liturgy throughout the church.
I hope this helps, Lisa.  If you would like more, please feel to write again.
Best wishes.