Bishop

An overseer. In apostolic times, it is quite manifest that there was no difference as to order between bishops and elders or presbyters (Acts 20:17-28; 1 Pet. 5:1, 2; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3). The term bishop is never once used to denote a different office from that of elder or presbyter. These different names are simply titles of the same office, “bishop” designating the function, namely, that of oversight, and “presbyter” the dignity appertaining to the office. Christ is figuratively called “the bishop [episcopos] of souls” (1 Pet. 2:25).

The word originally signified an “overseer” or spiritual superintendent. The titles bishop and elder, or presbyter, were essentially equivalent. Bishop is from the Greek, and denotes one who exercises the function of overseeing. Presbyter was derived from the office in the synagogue. Of the order in which the first elders or bishops were appointed, as of the occasion which led to the institution of the office, we have no record. The duties of the bishop-elders appear to have been as follows:

BISH'OP . 1 Tim 3:2. The original Greek word means "overseer," as Joseph was in Potiphar's house. Gen 39:4, or as the three thousand six hundred men were in Solomon's temple, 2 Chr 2:18, or as Uzzi was of the Levites. Neh 11:22. In the N. T. the term is synonymous with presbyter or elder, with this difference — that bishop is borrowed from the Greek and signifies the function, presbyter is derived from an office in the synagogue and signifies the dignity of the same office. Comp. Acts 20:17,Acts 20:28; Phil 1:1; 1 Tim 3:1ff.; Tit 1:5ff. These presbyters or bishops of the apostolic period were the regular teachers and pastors, preachers and leaders, of the congregations. We may imagine, however, that among themselves there would be a division made

BISH'OP . 1 Tim 3:2. The original Greek word means "overseer," as Joseph was in Potiphar's house. Gen 39:4, or as the three thousand six hundred men were in Solomon's temple, 2 Chr 2:18, or as Uzzi was of the Levites. Neh 11:22. In the N. T. the term is synonymous with presbyter or elder, with this difference — that bishop is borrowed from the Greek and signifies the function, presbyter is derived from an office in the synagogue and signifies the dignity of the same office. Comp. Acts 20:17,Acts 20:28; Phil 1:1; 1 Tim 3:1ff.; Tit 1:5ff. These presbyters or bishops of the apostolic period were the regular teachers and pastors, preachers and leaders, of the congregations. We may imagine, however, that among themselves there would be a division made BIS BLE according to individual fitness. See Elder.

Part of speech: noun (n.)

1. A spiritual overseer, superintendent, or director. Ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. 1 Pet. ii. 25. It is a fact now generally recognized by theologians of all shades of opinion, that in the language of the New Testament the same officer in the church is called indifferently "bishop" ( J. B. Lightfoot.

2. In the Roman Catholic, Greek, and Anglican or Protestant Episcopal churches, one ordained to the highest order of the ministry, superior to the priesthood, and generally claiming to be a successor of the Apostles. The bishop is usually the spiritual head or ruler of a diocese, bishopric, or see. Bishop in partibus [infidelium] (R. C. Ch.), a bishop of a see which does not actually exist; one who has the office of bishop, without especial jurisdiction. Shipley. -- Titular bishop (R. C. Ch.), a term officially substituted in 1882 for bishop in partibus. -- Bench of Bishops. See under Bench.

3. In the Methodist Episcopal and some other churches, one of the highest church officers or superintendents.

4. A piece used in the game of chess, bearing a representation of a bishop's miter; -- formerly called archer.

5. A beverage, being a mixture of wine, oranges or lemons, and sugar. Swift.

6. An old name for a woman's bustle. [U. S.] If, by her bishop, or her "grace" alone, A genuine lady, or a church, is known. Saxe.

Part of speech: verb (v.)

To admit into the church by confirmation; to confirm; hence, to receive formally to favor.

Part of speech: verb (v.)

To make seem younger, by operating on the teeth; as, to bishop an old horse or his teeth.