The Development of Bishops, Priests, and Deacons in the Early Church

DAY 316 CHALLENGE “In the New Testament, Church leadership wasn’t divided up among bishops, priests (aka presbyters/elders), and deacons. In particular, the office of bishop and elder were the same (Titus 1:5–7).” DEFENSE The offices of Church leadership developed during the first century under the guidance of the apostles. Originally, the only office in the Church was apostle. Jesus appointed the Twelve to serve as apostles toward the beginning of his ministry, around A.D. 30 or 31 (Matt. 10:1–4). He appointed others to temporary assignments, but not ongoing offices (Luke 10:1). Thus ...