from ἐπί and σκοπός (in the sense of ἐπισκοπέω); a superintendent, i.e. Christian officer in genitive case charge of a (or the) church (literally or figuratively):--bishop, overseer.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epískopos**, represented by `{{G1985}}`, functions as a key term for a **superintendent** or **overseer**. It appears **7 times** in **7 unique verses**. The definition indicates a Christian officer in charge of a church, translated as **bishop** or **overseer**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1985}}` identifies leaders within the early **church** `{{G1577}}`. In Philippi, the letter is addressed to the saints along with the **bishops** and **deacons** [[Philippians 1:1]]. In Acts, the Holy Ghost makes individuals **overseers** to **feed** `{{G4165}}` the flock, which is the church of God [[Acts 20:28]]. Ultimately, the term is applied to Christ himself, who is called the **Shepherd** `{{G4166}}` and **Bishop** of souls [[1 Peter 2:25]]. The subscriptions to the pastoral epistles also identify Timothy and Titus as having been ordained the first **bishop** of the churches of the Ephesians and the Cretians, respectively ([[2 Timothy 4:22]], [[Titus 3:15]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope and function of an overseer:
* `{{G1249}}` **diákonos** (deacon, minister, servant): This office is mentioned alongside **bishops** in the leadership structure of the church at Philippi, indicating a distinct but related role of service [[Philippians 1:1]].
* `{{G3623}}` **oikonómos** (steward): This term defines the role of a **bishop** as a manager of God's resources, described as "the **steward** of God" who must be blameless [[Titus 1:7]].
* `{{G4166}}` **poimḗn** (shepherd, pastor): This title is used in parallel with **bishop** to describe Christ's ultimate role of care and guidance over the souls of believers [[1 Peter 2:25]].
* `{{G4168}}` **poímnion** (flock): This word identifies the congregation that the **overseers** are responsible for, whom they are instructed to **feed** `{{G4165}}` and watch over [[Acts 20:28]].
### Theological Significance
The qualifications for an `{{G1985}}` **bishop** outline a high standard of moral and spiritual character.
* **Personal Integrity:** A **bishop** must be **blameless** `{{G423}}`, the husband of one wife, **vigilant** `{{G3524}}`, **sober** `{{G4998}}`, and of **good behaviour** `{{G2887}}` [[1 Timothy 3:2]].
* **Stewardship and Temperament:** The role requires being a faithful **steward** `{{G3623}}` of God, not **selfwilled** `{{G829}}`, not **soon angry** `{{G3711}}`, not **given to wine** `{{G3943}}`, not a **striker** `{{G4131}}`, and not **given to filthy lucre** `{{G146}}` [[Titus 1:7]].
* **Duty to the Flock:** An overseer's core responsibilities are to **take heed** `{{G4337}}` to the church [[Acts 20:28]], be **given to hospitality** `{{G5382}}`, and be **apt to teach** `{{G1317}}` [[1 Timothy 3:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1985}}` **epískopos** is not merely a title but a functional role of spiritual superintendence. It signifies an **overseer** appointed to **feed** `{{G4165}}` and care for the **flock** `{{G4168}}` of God [[Acts 20:28]]. The character requirements are extensive, demanding a person who is **blameless** `{{G423}}`, self-controlled, and hospitable ([[1 Timothy 3:2]], [[Titus 1:7]]). Ultimately, the term points to Christ as the supreme **Shepherd and Bishop** of our souls, setting the perfect standard for all who would hold this office [[1 Peter 2:25]].
TRV