Are the ministry gifts of apostles and prophets mentioned in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians (4:11-16) still operative in the Church today? Admittedly, there is much abuse and controversy in connection with these ministries. However, as the Latin phrase states: “Abusus non tollit usum. Abuse does not cancel use. Misuse of something is no argument against its proper use.” (Merriam Webster) To reject the ministries of apostles and prophets is a personal preference in practice – most likely to avoid abuse and controversy. But there is nothing in the Scriptures to validate this choice.
