7 But each one of us has received a gift of grace, just as Christ wanted us to have it.
8 That is why Scripture says, "When he went up to his place on high, he led a line of prisoners. He gave gifts to people." (Psalm 68:18)
9 What does "he went up" mean? It can only mean that he also came down to the lower, earthly places.
10 The One who came down is the same as the One who went up higher than all the heavens. He did it in order to fill all of creation.
11 He is the One who gave some the gift to be apostles. He gave some the gift to be prophets. He gave some the gift of preaching the good news. And he gave some the gift to be pastors and teachers.
12 He did it so that they might prepare God's people to serve. If they do, the body of Christ will be built up.
13 That will continue until we all become one in the faith and in the knowledge of God's Son. Then we will be grown up in the faith. We will receive everything that Christ has for us.