Epistle to the Trallians (Short Version)

In the same way, let everyone honor the deacons as an appointment of Jesus Christ, and the bishop as Jesus Christ, who is the Son of the Father, and the presbyters as the council of God, and assembly of the apostles. Without these, there is no Church. Regarding all this, I am convinced that you share the same belief. For I have experienced the demonstration of your love, and still hold it within me, in your bishop, whose very presence is highly instructive, and whose meekness is powerful; whom I imagine even the ungodly must honor, considering they are pleased that I do not hold back. But should I, when granted the opportunity to write on this topic, reach such a level of self-regard, that as a condemned man, I should give you commands as if I were an apostle?