Overseer (Episkopos)
Overseer (Greek: episkopos) is one of several titles used in the New Testament—alongside elder (presbyteros) and pastor (poimēn)—to describe those entrusted with leadership, governance, and pastoral care within the Church. As the Church developed beyond the apostolic age and adopted a more organized structure, the office of overseer gradually emerged as the highest position of authority in local congregations.
Etymology and Usage
The Greek word episkopos (ἐπίσκοπος),[1] used in the New Testament, is derived from epi (ἐπί),[2] meaning “over,” and skopos (σκοπός),[3] meaning “watcher” or “guardian.”[4] The term thus signifies one who exercises oversight, with responsibility and authority to guide and care for the Church.
As Gentile evangelism expanded, the title “overseer” came into broader use.[5] After the deaths of the apostles, the Church experienced growing pressures—both from Roman persecution and the spread of heretical teachings—and required stronger leadership. In this context, overseers were appointed as the principal leaders of regional churches, charged with preserving doctrine and guiding the faithful.[6][7]
Role and Qualifications
An overseer is described in the New Testament as a gospel worker appointed by the Holy Spirit to shepherd the Church, which was purchased with the blood of God.[8] The responsibilities of an overseer include caring for the congregation, teaching sound doctrine, and rebuking those who oppose the truth.[9] Apostle Peter refers to Christ as the “Shepherd and Overseer of your souls,” highlighting His role in guiding and protecting the flock, which symbolizes the members of the Church.[10]
The books of Titus and 1 Timothy outline in detail the qualifications required for those appointed to the office of overseer.
- Being blameless[11][12]
- Being disciplined[13][14]
- Being self-controlled[15][16]
- Being respectable[17]
- Being hospitable[18][19]
- Being able to teach[20]
- Not given to drunkenness[21][22]
- Not violent but gentle[23][24][25]
- Not quarrelsome[26]
- Not a lover of money[27]
- Managing one’s own family well[28]
- Being well-regarded by outsiders[29]
- Not overbearing or quick-tempered[30][31]
- Not pursuing dishonest gain[32]
- Loving what is good[33]
- Being righteous and holy[34]
- Holding firmly to God’s word[35]
See also
References
- ↑ ἐπίσκοπος, Blue Letter Bible
- ↑ Strong's Greek: 1909. ἐπί, Bible Hub
- ↑ Strong's Greek: 4649. σκοπός, Bible Hub
- ↑ Strong's Greek: 1985. ἐπίσκοπος, Bible Hub
- ↑ David A. Mappes, The New Testament Elder, Overseer, and Pastor, Bibliotheca Sacra 154, no. 614, April 1997
- ↑ Overseer, Bible Study Tools
- ↑ What does 1 Timothy 3:1 mean?, Bible Ref
- ↑ "Acts 20:28".
- ↑ "Titus 1:7–9".
- ↑ "1 Peter 2:25".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:1–2".
- ↑ "Titus 1:5–7".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:2".
- ↑ "Titus 1:8".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:2".
- ↑ "Titus 1:8".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:2".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:2".
- ↑ "Titus 1:8".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:2".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:3".
- ↑ "Titus 1:7".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:3".
- ↑ "Titus 1:7".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:3".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:3".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:3".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:4–5".
- ↑ "1 Timothy 3:7".
- ↑ "Titus 1:7".
- ↑ "Titus 1:7".
- ↑ "Titus 1:7".
- ↑ "Titus 1:9".
- ↑ "Titus 1:8".
- ↑ "Titus 1:9".