What structure does the Church of God affirm for church leadership?

The Church of God affirms a leadership structure that includes elders and deacons as fundamental roles within the church. This structure reflects the New Testament model where elders are responsible for spiritual oversight, teaching, and shepherding the congregation, while deacons serve by providing practical support and assistance in various ministries.

Elders typically hold a position of authority and spiritual maturity, guiding the church in doctrinal matters and offering pastoral care. Deacons, on the other hand, focus on the operational aspects of church life, facilitating service and ensuring the needs of the congregation and community are met. This dual structure of leadership ensures a balanced approach to both spiritual governance and practical service, aligning with biblical precedent.

In contrast, alternatives such as pastors and missionaries or district leaders and overseers do not encapsulate the complete framework often endorsed by the Church of God. While they may hold significant roles, they do not represent the foundational leadership structure embraced by the denomination, which prioritizes the elder-deacon model.