Expert: John - 5/21/2005

Question
We are studying 1 Timothy and this is one of the words we are to find info on and i don't seem to be able to find much info in the bible about overseers? Can you please help. Thanks, Barry

Answer
Hi Barry,
If you look at the King James Version of the Bible the term Bishop is used in the place of Overseer.  And you can look at the definition of Bishop in Easton's Bible dictionary which states:
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Bishop
An overseer. In apostolic times, it is quite manifest that there was no difference as to order between bishops and elders or presbyters (Act_20:17-28; 1Pe_5:1, 1Pe_5:2; Phi_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” (1Pe_2:25).
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I hope this helps.  If not send me another note and I will see what I can come up with.  Take care and may God Bless you in your studies
Pastor John