In this episode, Stephen responds to Dr. James White’s claim that the bishopric was an Eastern development that only later spread to the West. Dr. White argues that Ignatius of Antioch’s letters provide evidence for this view, particularly noting that Ignatius does not explicitly mention a bishop in his letter to the Romans. Stephen critically examines this argument, exploring the historical and theological significance of Ignatius’ writings, the broader context of early church governance, and whether the absence of a direct reference to a bishop in Rome necessarily supports White’s conclusion. Tune in for a thoughtful and well-researched discussion on the origins of episcopal leadership in the early Church.
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