Development of Church Government Flashcards
What models of church leadership are outlined in the New Testament?
The New Testament outlines elders (presbyters), overseers (bishops), and deacons as models of church leadership.
What does the Jerusalem Council, mentioned in Acts 15, show about early Christian governance?
The Jerusalem Council provides an example of collective decision-making, suggesting an early form of conciliar governance. [Church Councils]
According to the Paul’s Letters, what qualities should church leaders possess?
Church leaders should demonstrate humility, spiritual maturity, and teaching ability.
What is the main issue addressed in 1 Clement?
The main issue is the removal of presbyters from office, with a focus on the development of church hierarchy and apostolic succession.
What tension does the Didache highlight in early Christian ministry?
The Didache highlights the tension between itinerant (traveling) ministries and resident ministries.
How does the Shepherd of Hermas illustrate early church governance?
It illustrates a church governed by presbyters.
What significant form of church leadership is introduced in Ignatius’ letters?
Ignatius introduces the monarchical episcopacy, a single bishop assisted by presbyters and deacons, and the emergence of a three-fold ministry structure.
How does Justin Martyr describe church leadership in “First Apology”?
He mentions “the president [bishop] of the brothers” overseeing the Eucharist and preaching, with deacons assisting in distributing the bread and wine.
How does Irenaeus’ view on episcopal [church] governance contrast with Ignatius’ views?
Irenaeus supports diocesan episcopacy. This is the overseeing of multiple churches by a bishop. He uses the terms bishop and presbyter interchangeably, focusing on the central role of bishops in church unity and defence against heresy. This differs from Ignatius’ focus on the three-fold ministry.
How did Tertullian argue against Gnostic claims?
Tertullian, like Irenaeus, used the concept of apostolic succession to argue against Gnostic claims.
What distinction did Tertullian make between the early Christian ministry roles?
Tertullian differentiated between bishops and presbyters, establishing a clear threefold ministry by the 3rd century.
Who did Tertullian consider the primary figure to perform baptism?
Tertullian saw the bishop as the primary figure to perform baptism, with rights to delegate to presbyters, deacons, and laity, excluding women.
What were Tertullian’s views on the roles of women in the church?
He restricted women from speaking in church, baptising, or offering Eucharist but acknowledged their ability to prophesy.
Who first spoke of ministry in terms of “priesthood?”
Tertullian was the first to speak of ministry in terms of “priesthood,” making the term ‘priest’ specific to ministers, especially bishops.
Why is Cyprian known as “the Ignatius of the West”?
Cyprian’s strong emphasis on bishops and their role in the church greatly influenced the institutionalisation of the Church, earning him the title “the Ignatius of the West.”