1Our apostles also knew, through our Lord Jesus Christ, that there would be strife over the name of the episcopate.
2For this reason, therefore, having received perfect knowledge, they appointed those mentioned above and afterward provided a continuance.
3So that, if they should die, other approved men might succeed in their ministry.
4Those, therefore, who were appointed by them, or afterward by other eminent men with the consent of the whole church, and who have ministered blamelessly to the flock of Christ in humility, calm and nobility, and for a long time have been well testified by all—these men we consider to be unjustly removed from their ministry.