THE NAMES OF THE MINISTRY

[This is part 6 of the series by Brother Adam Wells on the Ministry - ed]

To properly understand the office of the ministry, one must be clear on the various names and titles that are used in Scripture to describe this role. While different titles may emphasize different aspects of the ministry, they ultimately refer to the same divinely ordained office. Much confusion exists among various denominations and religious groups, with some using one title and others using another. However, by returning to the teaching of Scripture, we can gain a clear understanding of the ministry and its various titles.

In the New Testament, the two primary offices of the ministry are those of bishop and deacon (Philippians 1:1; I Timothy 3:1-13). In this article we will focus on the former. The office of the bishop is a teaching and ruling office, responsible for overseeing and guiding the church (I Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-11). Even the apostles, who held a unique foundational role in the church, were considered bishops (Acts 1:20). Ultimately, Christ Himself is our chief Bishop and Shepherd (I Peter 2:25).

In contrast to these biblical offices, the titles of pope, cardinal, patriarch, archbishop, bishop, and priest are inventions of the Roman Catholic Church, and have no basis in Scripture. These titles represent a hierarchical system of governance that is foreign to the New Testament model of the ministry. Note that the RCC use of “bishop” is not the scriptural sense of the same term.

The title of pastor emphasizes the feeding and care of God's flock. Pastors are teachers who provide spiritual nourishment to the Lord's congregation. They are not a separate office from teachers, but rather teachers who have a special responsibility to feed and guide the flock (Ephesians 4:11).

Elders are another title for the same office, emphasizing their role as rulers and overseers in the church (I Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:5-7; I Peter 5:1-2). Even apostles like Peter were also recognized as elders, indicating a shared authority and responsibility (I Peter 5:1). Elders are placed in positions of authority by God, and are responsible for governing and guiding the church (Numbers 11:16-17; Genesis 50:7; Proverbs 31:23). Elders are often referred to as ministers in Scripture, emphasizing their role as servants of Christ and stewards of His mysteries (I Corinthians 3:5; 4:1; II Corinthians 3:6; 6:3-4; I Timothy 4:6). It is of note that the pastors of the seven churches of Asia were described as angels, or messengers, of their respective churches (Revelation 2:1; Hebrews 1:14)

The title of overseer is closely related to that of bishop and elder, emphasizing the responsibility to supervise and care for the flock (Acts 20:17, 28; I Peter 5:2). An overseer is one who guides and rules over others, providing spiritual leadership and direction (Proverbs 6:7; Numbers 3:32; Genesis 39:4-5; II Chronicles 2:18).

Therefore, while different titles may be used, the offices of bishop, pastor, elder, and overseer are ultimately synonymous, referring to the same divinely ordained role in the church. These titles emphasize different aspects of the ministry, but all point to the essential responsibility of leading, feeding, and guiding God's people.

In addition to these biblical titles, the use of the title "brother" is also scriptural, emphasizing the equality and brotherhood of all believers (Acts 9:17; II Peter 3:15). Some pastors prefer this title to show that they are also a brother in the congregation and desire to show humility. However, even this title must be guarded against being used to undermine the authority and recognition of those whom God has called to the ministry (Matthew 23:7-10).

Let us use biblical titles to refer to the ministry, and let us honor and respect those whom God has called to this ordained office. Let us recognize the diversity of roles within the body of Christ, while also acknowledging the divinely ordained authority of those whom God has placed over us. For in honoring the ministry, we honor Christ Himself, who has given gifts to the church for its edification and maturity.