To really grasp Paul’s point here, we need to look back at the context. Paul places the discussion of Christ’s gifts to the church, leaders, and their task of equipping the saints within the larger, cosmic mission of Jesus to rule over everything. The question Paul is addressing here is, How does Jesus extend His rule over all things? The answer: By giving the church leaders, filled with His power, to equip His people to serve Him and manifest His rule everywhere.
