Topical Encyclopedia The term "preside" refers to the act of leading, governing, or overseeing a group, assembly, or organization. In a biblical context, presiding often involves spiritual leadership and the exercise of authority within the community of believers. The concept of presiding is closely associated with roles such as elders, overseers, and leaders within the church, as well as with the governance of family and societal structures.Biblical References and Context 1. Church Leadership: In the New Testament, the role of presiding is often linked to church leadership. The Apostle Paul provides guidance on the qualifications and responsibilities of those who preside over the church. In 1 Timothy 3:4-5, Paul writes about the qualifications of an overseer: "He must manage his own household well and keep his children under control, with complete dignity. For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how can he care for the church of God?" . This passage highlights the importance of effective leadership and governance both in the family and the church. 2. Elders and Overseers: Elders and overseers are often described as those who preside over the church. In 1 Timothy 5:17, Paul states, "Elders who lead well are worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching" . This verse underscores the dual role of presiding in both governance and teaching within the church community. 3. Spiritual Gifts: The concept of presiding is also linked to spiritual gifts. In Romans 12:6-8, Paul discusses various gifts given to believers, including leadership: "We have different gifts according to the grace given to us... if it is leadership, let him govern diligently" . This passage emphasizes that presiding is a spiritual gift that requires diligence and responsibility. 4. Family Leadership: The Bible also addresses the role of presiding within the family. Ephesians 5:23 states, "For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior" . This verse reflects the biblical model of family leadership, where the husband is called to preside with love and sacrificial care, mirroring Christ's relationship with the church. 5. Civil Authority: Presiding is not limited to ecclesiastical or familial contexts but extends to civil authority as well. Romans 13:1-2 instructs believers to submit to governing authorities, recognizing their role in maintaining order: "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God" . This passage affirms the divine establishment of civil leaders who preside over societal structures. Theological Implications The act of presiding carries significant theological implications, as it reflects God's order and design for leadership within various spheres of life. Those who preside are called to exercise their authority with humility, integrity, and a servant's heart, following the example of Christ. The biblical model of presiding emphasizes accountability to God and the community, ensuring that leadership is exercised for the edification and well-being of others. Practical Application In practical terms, presiding involves a commitment to lead by example, prioritize the needs of others, and uphold biblical principles in decision-making. Whether in the church, family, or society, those who preside are entrusted with the responsibility to guide, protect, and nurture those under their care, always seeking to glorify God through their leadership. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) To be set, or to sit, in the place of authority; to occupy the place of president, chairman, moderator, director, etc.; to direct, control, and regulate, as chief officer; as, to preside at a public meeting; to preside over the senate.2. (v. i.) To exercise superintendence; to watch over. Greek 4291. proistemi -- early ... early. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: proistemi Phonetic Spelling: (pro-is'-tay-mee) Short Definition: I rule Definition: I preside, rule over, give ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4291.htm - 7k Library The Sinister Deities Preside Over the Regions on the Left Hand ... Does Venus Militaris, Also, Preside Over the Evil-Doing of Camps.. ... It Behoves those who Preside Over the Churches, Every Day but ... In what Manner, and from what Cause, the Functions of the ... Whether the Corporeal Creature is Governed by the Angels? On Magistracy Concerning the Principalities, Archangels, and Angels, and ... Whether the Orders of the Angels are Properly Named? The Government of the Church. The Romans Provided Gods for Birth, Nay, Even Before Birth, to ... Thesaurus Preside (3 Occurrences)... of authority; to occupy the place of president, chairman, moderator, director, etc.; to direct, control, and regulate, as chief officer; as, to preside at a ... /p/preside.htm - 7k Preserving (10 Occurrences) Obadi'ah (16 Occurrences) Lord (59401 Occurrences) Forward (252 Occurrences) Forwardness (2 Occurrences) Titus (15 Occurrences) Dream (82 Occurrences) Dreamer (4 Occurrences) Meshul'lam (23 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about authority? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened at the Council of Constantinople? | GotQuestions.org What are the courts of heaven? | GotQuestions.org Preside: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Preside (3 Occurrences)Colossians 3:15 1 Chronicles 23:4 2 Chronicles 34:12 Subtopics Related Terms |