KOINE Greek: Elder

 

Biblical Words & Their Meaning: ἐπίσκοπος (episkopos)

In our 1 Timothy chapter 3 study, Paul turns his attention to leadership in the church and introduces the important office of ἐπίσκοπος (episkopos).

This Greek word is translated in different English Bibles as:

Elder (highlighting spiritual maturity and wisdom)

Overseer (emphasising the task of watching over and caring for the flock)

Bishop (an older term carried over from the Greek through Latin)

Literal Meaning

ἐπίσκοπος literally means one who has the responsibility of safeguarding or seeing to it that something is done in the correct way — a guardian, a supervisor, a watchful protector.

In the church context, an episkopos is a man called and equipped by the Holy Spirit to guard the flock, ensure sound doctrine is taught, maintain order, and lead God’s people in godliness. He is not a distant ruler but a shepherd who watches over the congregation with care and accountability.

Paul describes aspiring to this office as a noble task (1 Timothy 3:1). It is a high and worthy calling — not for personal status or power, but for the glory of Christ and the good of His church.

This office is the same as that of pastor/shepherd. The different English words simply bring out different aspects of the one role: maturity (elder), oversight and protection (overseer), and caring leadership (pastor).

As Shaun explained in our study, the church needs this leadership just as a ship needs a rudder or a country needs a leader. Without godly elders/overseers, chaos follows. When the Holy Spirit raises up faithful episkopoi, the church is strengthened, protected, and guided in the right direction.

May the Lord continue to raise up humble, Spirit-led guardians of His flock for His glory.

Article written by Shaun Fereday, Leader @SFGH Church