Patristics

“Now the more anyone sees the bishop keeping silence [footnote - “that is, 'showing forbearance'”], the more he ought to revere him. For we ought to receive everyone whom the Master of the house since to be over His household, as we would do Him that sent him. It is manifest, therefore, that we should look upon the bishop even as we would look upon the [52] Lord Himself.” Ignatius, Ephesians VI, ANF 1:51-52