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PRESBYTERIAN, n. One who holds the conviction that the…

“PRESBYTERIAN, n. One who holds the conviction that the government authorities of the Church should be called presbyters.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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“PRESBYTERIAN, n. One who holds the conviction that the government authorities of the Church should be called presbyters.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Defines a presbyterian as someone who believes church authority should be exercised by elected elders.

In simple terms: Presbyterian = believer in elected church leaders.

Key Takeaway

Understand religious governance terms.

Themes

religion definition politics

Mood

wry informative

Type

historical satirical

When to use this quote

  • theology studies
  • historical research
  • religious debate

Key Concepts

church hierarchy democratic governance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this reveal about religious authority?
  • How do you view elected vs appointed leadership?
A Different Perspective

Definition is satirical, not literal.

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