Does the Bible tell us to have bishops as our pastors? Does the Bible tell us that bishops are either made by other bishops, or by the Apostles themselves? Who is your bishop?
Bishops ARE pastors.
The words are synonymous.
And, as the bible says nothing about how bishops are "made" we have to comply to what is written.
This is written..."This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.
2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;
4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;
5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.
7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil." (1 Tim 3:1-7)
It seems to start with a man who "wants the duty".
If a man fulfills the requirements, he can be a bishop.
The word does say if a man wants to be a deacon, he must be tested/proved..."And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless." (1 Tim 3:10)
I see no reason for a bishop not to also be tested.
