Deep Dive into Institutes of the Christian Religion by John Calvin - The Condition of the Ancient Church, and the Kind of Government in Use Before the Papacy

Based on the sources, the ancient church organized its government to mirror Scriptural patterns, resulting in a system defined by administrative collaboration rather than monarchical hierarchy. Originally, the titles "bishop" and "presbyter" were synonymous, representing the same office of teaching and pastoring. The distinction between them emerged not by divine command, but as a practical human remedy to prevent schisms. To maintain unity, presbyters in each city selected one of their own to serve as a presiding officer. This bishop functioned like a Roman consul in a senate: he held the authority to guide the assembly and execute common decisions, yet remained subject to the counsel of his brethren.

Despite this administrative elevation, the bishop’s primary duty—shared with all presbyters—was the dispensing of the Word and sacraments. A bishop who failed to preach was considered "guilty of blood" for neglecting the spiritual life of his flock.

The election of these leaders required a careful balance of authority to ensure legitimacy and prevent tumult. While the people retained the fundamental right to approve their leaders, the process involved the clergy selecting a qualified candidate, the city magistrates or senate ratifying the decision, and the people providing their acclaim. Finally, neighboring provincial bishops would convene to examine and consecrate the elect.

Financially, the church viewed all its assets strictly as the "patrimony of the poor." Revenues were managed by deacons under the bishop’s oversight and legally divided into four parts: sustenance for the clergy, direct aid for the poor, building maintenance, and a hospitality fund for travelers. These were not private salaries; bishops and clergy were expected to live frugally. Any use of church funds for personal luxury was considered sacrilege and theft from the needy, as the church’s wealth existed solely to serve the community and the destitute.

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