wturri78
Puritan Board Freshman
I've heard several times that the government of the earliest church was presbyterian, with no distinction between an "elder" and "overseer," and that each congregation was governed by a plurality of elders. I've also heard it said that certain elders came to be "first among equals" and then eventually the system evolved to mirror the Roman hierarchical model, with bishops being over elders, and with elders being appointed from the top down rather than chosen from the bottom up.
I've also read from those who defend episcopal government, that this is either nonsense or is a misreading of the earliest history, and that the episcopate is both biblical and historically original. Naturally everyone has a nice collection of quotes from early fathers ready to prove their point.
What evidence, primary sources, etc. can be used to show that the early church was presbyterian in its government? Quotes and citations would be appreciated if you have them handy.
Thanks!
Bill
I've also read from those who defend episcopal government, that this is either nonsense or is a misreading of the earliest history, and that the episcopate is both biblical and historically original. Naturally everyone has a nice collection of quotes from early fathers ready to prove their point.
What evidence, primary sources, etc. can be used to show that the early church was presbyterian in its government? Quotes and citations would be appreciated if you have them handy.
Thanks!
Bill