12. For—with a view to; the ultimate aim. "Unto."
perfecting—The Greek implies correcting in all that is deficient, instructing and completing in number and all parts.
for—a different Greek word; the immediate object. Compare Ro 15:2, "Let every one … please his neighbor for his good unto edification."
the ministry—Greek, "ministration"; without the article. The office of the ministry is stated in this verse. The good aimed at in respect to the Church (Eph 4:13). The way of growth (Eph 4:14-16).
edifying—that is, building up as the temple of the Holy Ghost.