The logic here is as follows: appoint elders if they are above reproach . . . for a bishop must be above reproach. This makes no sense unless the terms “bishop” and “elder” refer to one and the same office (for the greater office can include the lesser, but not vice versa). Thus, these two terms, as used by the apostles themselves, do not designate two distinct offices. Instead, the New Testament portrays two offices in the church: bishop/presbyter and deacon.
