What is church membership all about? We see glimpses and sightings of church membership throughout the New Testament. While we are thankful for the Global Church and the work that God is doing around the world, we recognize many of the New Testament letters were written to specific local church bodies. 

We believe church membership is beneficial for three reasons:

1. Membership is about Community.

Acts 2:41 - Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

On the day of Pentecost, when new believers were baptized they were added to the church. What we see is a picture of belonging. They were a part of something. 

Acts 2:42 - And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

2. Membership is about Accountability.

Hebrews 13:7 - Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

As followers of Jesus we are called to walk in accountability. The context of this accountability is within the local church. We are not required to submit to every or any pastor who might teach false doctrine or practice unbiblical methods. We are called however to belong and be accountable to a local church body. 

3. Membership is about Commitment. 

Hebrews 10:25 - Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. 

Membership is saying I’m all in. I’m linking arms with my brothers and sisters in Christ. You’ve got my back. I’ve got your back. I’m committing to this body of believers. This is not saying we agree on every nuance and detail of ministry, but it does mean we are united on the fundamental doctrines of the faith.