1 Clement 44

1And our apostles knew through our Lord Jesus Messiah that there would be strife over the name of the overseer’s office.

2For this reason, then, having received complete foreknowledge, they appointed the men already mentioned, and afterward they gave a further provision, so that if they should fall asleep, other approved men might succeed to their ministry.

3Therefore, those who were appointed by them, or afterward by other reputable men with the whole church consenting, and who have served the flock of the Messiah blamelessly, with humility, quietly, and unpretentiously, and who for a long time have been well attested by all—these we consider not to be justly removed from the ministry.

4For it will be no small sin for us if we cast out those who have offered the gifts of oversight blamelessly and devoutly.

5Blessed are the elders who went on before, who had a timely and complete departure; for they do not fear lest someone remove them from the place given to them.

6For we see that you have removed some who were conducting themselves well from the ministry that had been blamelessly honored by them.