The Church of God affirms the scriptural pattern of ____ and deacons.

• A. Pastors
• B. Deacons
• C. Bishops
• D. Elders

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is the biblical order of church leadership, specifically how the local church is governed by an overseer role paired with a service-oriented role. The Church of God emphasizes the pattern of bishops and deacons, with bishops serving as overseers who provide spiritual leadership and oversight, while deacons handle practical service, administration, and mercy ministry. This pairing comes from New Testament teaching that presents two distinct offices in the church for its governance and ministry. Other terms like pastors or elders appear in various contexts, but the specific scriptural pattern highlighted here is bishops alongside deacons, making that pairing the best fit for the statement.