comparative of (elderly); older; as noun, a senior; specially, an Israelite Sanhedrist (also figuratively, member of the celestial council) or Christian "presbyter":-- elder(-est), old.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **presbýteros**, represented by `{{G4245}}`, serves as a term for an **elder** or senior. It appears **67 times** across **67 unique verses** in the Bible. Beyond its primary sense of being older, it is used to denote a senior member of a community, specifically an Israelite Sanhedrist, a Christian presbyter, or a member of a celestial council.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4245}}` is used in several key contexts. In the Gospels, it frequently refers to the **elders** of Israel as part of the ruling council, who are depicted as opposing Jesus [[Matthew 16:21]]. In the early church, the term designates leaders appointed to govern and teach; Paul and Barnabas ordained **elders** in every church [[Acts 14:23]]. In Revelation, the word takes on a heavenly dimension, describing the twenty-four **elders** who sit on thrones around the throne of God [[Revelation 4:4]]. The term also retains its comparative meaning of being older, as when it is prophesied that **old men** shall dream dreams [[Acts 2:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and context of an elder:
* `{{G749}}` **archiereús** (the high-priest; by extension a chief priest): This title often appears alongside `{{G4245}}` to describe the Jewish ruling council that rejected the Son of Man [[Mark 8:31]].
* `{{G1122}}` **grammateús** (a writer, i.e. scribe or secretary): Like 'chief priest', **scribe** is frequently used with 'elder' to form the collective leadership of the Sanhedrin [[Luke 9:22]].
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (a religious congregation; church): This term provides the context for Christian **elders**, who are appointed within the **church** to provide spiritual oversight and care [[Acts 14:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4245}}` is significant, establishing patterns of authority and governance.
* **Leadership in Israel:** The term is central to the structure of Jewish authority in the New Testament. The **elders** were responsible for upholding tradition [[Mark 7:3]] but are also portrayed as rejecting Christ [[Luke 9:22]].
* **Church Governance:** The role of the **elder** is foundational to the New Testament model of church leadership. Elders are to be ordained in every city [[Titus 1:5]], are responsible for ruling well and laboring in doctrine [[1 Timothy 5:17]], and are called upon to pray for the sick [[James 5:14]].
* **Celestial Worship:** The twenty-four **elders** in Revelation represent a celestial body of worshipers. They sit on thrones, wear crowns of gold [[Revelation 4:4]], and fall down before the Lamb with the prayers of the saints [[Revelation 5:8]], signifying their honored position in the heavenly court.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4245}}` **presbýteros** is a multifaceted term that signifies more than just advanced age. It defines a position of authority and respect within both Jewish and Christian communities, from the Sanhedrin that took counsel against Jesus [[Matthew 27:1]] to the appointed leaders who shepherd the church [[Acts 20:17]]. Furthermore, its use in Revelation elevates the concept to a heavenly status, depicting **elders** as participants in the direct worship of God [[Revelation 19:4]].
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