Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897)
An overseer. In apostolic times, it is quite manifest that there was no difference as to order between bishops and elders or presbyters (Acts 20:17-28; 1 Pet. 5:1, 2; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3). The term bishop is never once used to denote a different office from that of elder or presbyter. These different names are simply titles of the same office, “bishop” designating the function, namely, that of oversight, and “presbyter” the dignity appertaining to the office. Christ is figuratively called “the bishop [episcopos] of souls” (1 Pet. 2:25).
Smith's Bible Dictionary (1863)
The word originally signified an “overseer” or spiritual superintendent. The titles bishop and elder, or presbyter, were essentially equivalent. Bishop is from the Greek, and denotes one who exercises the function of overseeing. Presbyter was derived from the office in the synagogue. Of the order in which the first elders or bishops were appointed, as of the occasion which led to the institution of the office, we have no record.
Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
BISH'OP . 1 Tim 3:2. The original Greek word means "overseer," as Joseph was in Potiphar's house. Gen 39:4, or as the three thousand six hundred men were in Solomon's temple, 2 Chr 2:18, or as Uzzi was of the Levites. Neh 11:22. In the N. T. the term is synonymous with presbyter or elder, with this difference — that bishop is borrowed from the Greek and signifies the function, presbyter is derived from an office in the synagogue and signifies the dignity of the same office. Comp. ; Tit 1:5ff.
These presbyters or bishops of the apostolic period were the regular teachers and pastors, preachers and leaders, of the congregations.
Schaff's Bible Dictionary
BISH'OP . 1 Tim 3:2. The original Greek word means "overseer," as Joseph was in Potiphar's house. Gen 39:4, or as the three thousand six hundred men were in Solomon's temple, 2 Chr 2:18, or as Uzzi was of the Levites. Neh 11:22. In the N. T. the term is synonymous with presbyter or elder, with this difference — that bishop is borrowed from the Greek and signifies the function, presbyter is derived from an office in the synagogue and signifies the dignity of the same office. Comp. ; Tit 1:5ff.
These presbyters or bishops of the apostolic period were the regular teachers and pastors, preachers and leaders, of the congregations. We may imagine, however, that among themselves there would be a division made BIS BLE according to individual fitness. See Elder.