Bishop (theological position)

Bishop is a theological position within Christianity, particularly among Anglicans, Episcopalians, and some other churches, that emphasizes the authority of bishops as spiritual leaders and successors of the apostles. It holds that bishops have a special role in teaching, guiding, and maintaining church doctrine and unity. This view contrasts with more decentralized or congregational approaches, emphasizing a hierarchical structure where bishops oversee local churches. The doctrine of bishops helps ensure consistency, apostolic continuity, and accountability within the church’s teachings and practices.