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Bishops took the place of Roman magistrates in the structure of the Church. Church government was a theocracy, and good Christians used Church law as administered by bishops to settle disputes, make rulings about kinship relations, inheritance, and even criminal offenses. The Bishops followed Roman law where it was applicable.

When the barbarians destroyed the Roman administration in the cities and countrysides, Bishops were the de facto available authorities. They became the new magistrates. They had political duties as well, and became allies of the king or duke. Bishops themselves were usually lords.

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Q: What criteria allowed bishops to become powerful what were their areas of authority and related duties?
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What ended the authority of priests and bishops?

The authority of priests and bishops within the wider Christian church has not ended.Roman Catholic AnswerThe "authority" of priests and bishops is only a participation in the authority of Jesus Christ over His Church. They have no authority on their own, but only when they are speaking as His representatives. As such, their "authority" will last as that of Our Blessed Lord. As He created the entire world, then I suppose His authority, as exercised through His priests and Bishops, will last as long as the world lasts.


Why did Bishops of Rome claim to have authority over all other bishops?

The popes are the successors of Saint Peter, who was given special authority by Jesus to lead the Church.


Why did the bishops of Rome claimed to have authority over all other bishops?

The popes are the successors of Saint Peter, who was given special authority by Jesus to lead the Church.


What was the authority of the Roman king called?

They are called the Bishops


Could clergyman allowed to marry?

Answer Catholic Bishops are not allowed to marry


The bishops and priests who the pope in Rome had authority over were called the?

.Catholic AnswerThe Holy Father in Rome has authority over all bishops and priests in the world, but particularly, he is the Bishop of Rome.


How did the authority of the apostles get Passed on to other bishops?

By the laying on of hands.


What is church authority?

Church authority is the authority of God as expressed through the Magisterium of the Church, which resides ultimately in Christ, as expressed through His Vicar, the Pope, and the teaching authority of the Bishops in union with him.


What ended the authority of priests and bishops in Europe?

The Renaissance began a process of secularization which has reduced the power of priests and bishops in Europe, although it would be a mistake to say that their power has ended completely. The Roman Catholic Church remains a wealthy and powerful organization with many devoted followers, although it is not the dominant power of Europe that it once was.


Do women Catholic bishops exist?

No, that would be impossible, the Church has no authority to ordain women.


In authority what comes after bishops?

pope (bishop of rome) ^^^^^ bishop ^^^^^ priest ^^^^^ deacon


Why did the bishop of Rome claim to have authority over all bishops?

The popes are the successors of Saint Peter, who was given special authority by Jesus to lead the Church.