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Early Christian Hierarchy

Early Christian Hierarchy. Presbyters/Bishops Deacons widows. By: Travis Ramcharran. Presbyters/Bishops. The Bishop held the highest position of authority in his local churches. Paul held such a position in his local community Paul’s assistants included Silvanus and Timothy

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Early Christian Hierarchy

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  1. Early Christian Hierarchy Presbyters/Bishops Deacons widows By: Travis Ramcharran

  2. Presbyters/Bishops • The Bishop held the highest position of authority in his local churches. • Paul held such a position in his local community • Paul’s assistants included Silvanus and Timothy • These assistants spoke with the voice of Paul • Similar relationships existed between other Apostles • A member of a local community could be called to a leadership role such as that of a Bishop or an assistant to the Bishop because of: • A personal connection with an Apostle or his workers • A “Gift of the Holy Spirit” • Their social stature in the community

  3. Presbyters/Bishops cont’d These leaders did not hold definite offices. Over time, more definite offices began to develop to create a sense of order in the Church. By the time of the First Letter of Timothy, many local churches had a council of men called the Presbyters. Presbyters were responsible for overseeing the affairs of the local church Presbyters and Bishops were essentially the same in Paul’s time

  4. Responsibilities of the Presbyter/Bishop Monitored the religious and ethical behavior of the local community, ensuring that people lived out their commitment to the Gospel and did not bring shame upon the Church. Cared for the poor and presided Christian worship. Most important responsibility: to preserve and defend the teaching of the Apostles.

  5. Requirements of Presbyters/Bishops Sensible, dignified and moderate A model for other Christians, managing his own household well. Married only once, and his children must be well behaved. Respected by everyone in the community Free from love of money Not violent Not a drinker

  6. Deacons • The deacon was a leader of considerable importance to the community. By the end of the first century, however, the deacon’s function was secondary to that of the presbyter and bishop. • Greek word for deacon is diakonos. • Women were deacons as well • Phoebe (Romans 16:1) • Office of the Deacon was well established by the end of the first century.

  7. Requirements of the Deacon Must “hold fast” to the teaching of the Apostles Must have been married only once Must be a good manager of his or her house before being entrusted with care of the Church’s resources. Should be put on probation before being confirmed in office.

  8. The Office of Widows • Widows helped organize and expand the Christian mission in the last half of the first century, especially if they were wealthy. • If a widow was poor, Christians would support such widows with community resources. • In order to qualify for support, the widows: • Had a specific duty to offer prayers • Must be good of character • Must not engage in false teaching • Pray everyday and every night

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