Foundations of Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG07

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F O U N D A T I O N S O F C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

2. Best to conceive of the various terms in light of the primary function which the concept highlights

a. The term pastor highlights the shepherding role of the Christian leader in the congregation.

b. The term elder highlights the place, position, and prominence of the Christian leader in the congregation.

c. The term bishop highlights the role of providing broad oversight authority of the Christian leader in the congregation.

D. In the history of the Church, the office of bishop was expanded to represent an appointed or elected individual who was given charge over a number of pastors or groups of congregations .

1. This definition corresponds to the apostolic office of giving oversight to the churches (the Apostle to the Gentiles, Rom. 15.16).

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2. Paul’s responsibility included all the congregations, 2 Cor. 11.28.

3. His journeys were motivated by his desire to care for all the churches where they had planted them, Acts 15.36.

4. His ongoing work was to strengthen all the churches in his circuit.

a. Acts 15.40-41