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

I. New Testament Meanings of the Term Presbyteros (”Elder”; plural presbyteroi )

Video Segment 1 Outline

A. Word meanings for presbyteros (many scholars contend that the Greek words for leadership presbyteros and episkopos refer to the same office in the NT Church, with the only difference being that episkopos is only used in Gentile churches)

Bishop and Presbyter are Used Interchangeably by Church Fathers Our sin will not be small if we eject from oversight [or, from the episcopate] those who have blamelessly and holily fulfilled its duties. Blessed are those presbyters who have obtained a fruitful and perfect departure, having finished their course before now. ~ Clement of Rome (c. 96, W), 1.17., David W. Bercot, ed. A Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs . Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers, 1998. p. 157.

1. “Elder” (i.e., one of prominence and maturity)

2. “Overseer” (i.e., one charged with rulership)

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3. “Ruler,” (i.e., one who presides)

B. Relationship to other NT leadership terms

1. Virtually synonymous in the early Church with “bishops”

a. Acts 20.17, 28

b. Overseers to the flock

2. Also resonates with NT notion of shepherding and pastoring

a. 1 Pet. 5.1-4, Peter refers to himself both as elder and shepherd .

b. 1 Pet. 2.25, Peter refers to Jesus as both Shepherd and Bishop of our souls.