Ephesians 4,12. A Revised Reading

This paper proposes a new interpretation of Eph 4,12 based on a rhetorical analysisof the thought in the section (4,7-16). This structural approach has favored theinterpretative clues provided by the text itself and has clarified the meaning of aNT hapax legomenon (καταρτισμός). The prepositional sequence in Eph 4,12expresses agreement (προς + accusative), purpose (εις) and result (εις), in thisorder. Such an interpretation, in accordance with the train of thought of the wholesection, stresses a relationship of agreement between Christ's gift and the ministryof the Word for building up his body.