Clement and Bishops

Clement's writings give a lot of insight into the usage of the terms Bishop and presbyter. It is apparent he used the terms interchangeably. His usage is clearly different than todays Catholic usage.

In Clements letter to Corinth, Catholics teaching it written in 80 AD about 20years before Ignatius said there were 3 offices; Bishop, Presbyter, and deacon.

In Chapter 21 Clement writes,

"Our Apostles knew through our Lord Jesus Christ that there would be strife for the office of bishop. For this reason, therefore, having received perfect knowledge, they appoint those who have already been mentioned, and afterwards added the further provision that, if they should die, other approved men should succeed to their ministry. As for these, then, who were appointed by them, or who afterwards appointed by other illustrious men with the consent of the whole Church, and who have ministered to the flock of Christ without blame, humbly, peaceably and with dignity, and who have for many years received the commendations of all, we consider it unjust that they be removed from the ministry. Our sin will not be small if we eject from the episcopate those who blamelessly and holily have offered its Sacrifices. Blessed are those presbyters [priests] who have already finished their course, and who have obtained a fruitful and perfect release; for they have now no fear that any shall transfer them from the place appointed [by Almighty God]. For we see that in spite of their good service you have removed some from their ministry in which they served without blame."

1. Notice that Clement uses the words Bishops, episcopate, and presbyters to describe the same men.

2. He says a plural number were being unjustly removed from office, proving a pluralityof Bishops in Corinth.

3. The word priest is not in the text, but supplied as external commentary. This is important because they thought it necessary to clarify their theory since Clement did not himself call them priests in this chapter.

Thus, in 80 AD they were the same office, in 100 AD when Ignatius wrote they were not.

Clement says they were being wrongfully removed, thus a forcible takeover of the Church in Corinth. This would fulfill Paul's prophecy in Acts 20.

Act 20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.

Act 20:30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

Act 20:31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.