A Dictionary of the Bible; Dealing with Its Language, Literature, and Contents, Including the Biblical Theology Volume 1 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1901 Excerpt: ...and this was possessed in an eminent degree by the 'prophets, ' who were regarded with a higher respect than any other possessors of 'gifts of speaking. Now, when we turn to the Didache (chs. 9. 10) we find a fixed liturgy prescribed for the Eucharist, with formal prayers for the consecration of the cup and the breaking of the bread, and, at the close of the service, the whole is followed by the injunction, 'But permit the prophets to give thanks as much as they will, ' Tou Si irpoijraTs eirtTptireTe tirxafHVTciv &aa $4ovrt. The contrast Tou Si irpotprirais, K.t.x., implies that the fixed formula of prayer was uttered, not by a 'prophet, ' but by a bishop in his absence, or in addition to the free 'giving of thanks.' This prominence of the bishop in spiritual functions, which he shared with the 'prophet' and ' teacher, ' is alluded to in the sentence already quoted (Did. 151), 'For they also perform for you the service of the prophets and teachers.' There were cases in which no 'prophet' or 'teacher'was present in the community (Did. 133), and in their absence functions which were mainly entrusted to tliem fell upon the bishops and deacons. This applies, not only to spiritual, but also to other functions. The advance of bishops and deacons to something approaching an exclusive right to certain ministerial acts seems to have arisen somewhat as follows. In certain cases there were actions to be performed on behalf of the community which it was more convenient to carry out by means of a few representatives than by the whole body. This was, e.g., especially the case with the 'laying on of hands' at ordination. These acts were then naturally transferred to the acknowledged representatives of the assembly (the presbytery, 1 Ti 4"). In the same way James (5&q...