Church Membership

Introduction

What does it mean to “join a church”?

What should it look like once you do join?

The Existence of a Member

Church membership is not instructed, it is assumed (Acts 2:41-47).

Instructions about and to elders demands membership (1 & 2 Thess. 1:1; Heb. 13:7, 17).

Church discipline assumes membership (1 Cor. 5:11-13).

The original revelation was made to churches (1 Thess. 5:27; Col. 4:16).

The Heart of a Member

Being a member of a church means being part of a family (1 Tim. 5:2).

It means being citizens who are pilgrims (1 Pet. 2:11).

We should cultivate a sense of loyalty among one another (Rom. 12:16; 15:5-6; 2 Cor. 13:11; Phil. 1:27; 2:2, 1 Pet. 3:8).

The Activity of a Member

A member is present (Heb. 10:25).

A member participates in worship (1 Cor. 14:26; Eph. 5:19).

A member participates in the collective work of the church (1 Cor. 16:1-3; Acts 6:3-6).

A member works outside of the collective as well (Acts 2:46).

Conclusion

Membership in a local church is demanding.

But this is an outgrowth of the understanding that we are meant to be shining examples of a kingdom that is made without hands. Of course it is demanding.

Family is demanding. Kings are demanding. Some people check out of those demands and just want to know when to show up for meals and benefits. Such an approach destroys the relationship.

Would you be a part of God’s kingdom, then you must find a group of local citizens to join with in doing the work of that kingdom.