I recently received a great email with a question about church membership:
It read, in part:
“...I've always wondered about this. I understand the need for involvement and even commitment to the local church. But I have never really understood the basis for membership on paper as related to anything from scripture. I can do all of the things you ascribe to membership without being a member on paper. Is there a verse that indicates there is a need for that type of membership?
In reply, I wrote:
Please forgive a quick reply to a question with significant implications. Your inference is correct. I am not familiar with a bible verse that indicates “a need” for membership “on paper.” There is a place that indicates a need for membership “on paper,” our Grace Chapel Constitution.
This document limits voting on amending the constitution, approving the annual budget, affirming the selection of Elders and Deacons and the calling and dismissal of the Senior Pastor to members “on paper.” [In our case, “on paper” means approval by the Elders documented on the official minutes of the Board.]
Grace Chapel is an independent church. As such, the members own the property and have the ability to dissolve the organization. The members determine the direction of the church as decisions are made and the Constitution is updated as needed.
So, for the above reasons, a person committed to a local assembly of believers, logically should be a member “on paper.”
While there is not a Bible verse which indicates the need for membership, in the way we use the term, I believe the principle and practice of becoming a member of a local church helps draw us closer to the experience of God’s people in the Scriptures and throughout the history of the church.
In the Old Testament, there was very clearly an “on paper” aspect of becoming part of the covenant people of God. In the New Testament it does not appear there was membership “on paper,” but there was no doubt about expectations and responsibilities of leaders and “lay” people within the local assemblies.
I find it fascinating that in the history of the church, mighty works of God always had an “on paper” aspect or, at least feel.
When God laid hold of Wesley, the Methodist movement had a definite “on paper” aspect as the people covenanted to live a disciplined life. Revivals, missionary movements and prevailing local churches all have an “on paper” feel as people unite for a common purpose or vision.
Lastly, I have observed the huge difference in a person who says, I “go to” or “I attend” Grace Chapel” and a person who says Grace Chapel is “my church.” Membership helps accommodate and accelerate this emotional and spiritual shift in perspective.
I don’t have time to wonder how much American individualism plays in our hesitation to become a member of a local church...
Many of our Christian disciplines and daily practices do not have a bible verse which directly speak to the issue. I remember as a young follower of Jesus looking for a verse about closing my eyes or taking my hat off when I pray... I remember looking for a verse commanding me to have daily devotions or say grace before meals... Or go to Sunday School or Mid week services...
Anyway... I hope this helps as you consider the place and importance of membership in a local church.
SO... Why Church Membership?
We exist to exalt Christ and impact our worlds. The church is the God given means to accomplish that goal.
The Universal Church (i.e., all believers, everywhere) is the means by which God is fulfilling His purposes in the world (2 Corinthians 5:17-20).
The Local Church (i.e., a particular group of believers in a particular locale) is the means by which God is fulfilling His purposes in our world. (Ephesians 2:1-10)
Those of us who trust in and follow Jesus are caught up in something much bigger than ourselves. We have graciously been invited to “Walk with Jesus.”
In the past we have said “walking with Jesus” involves:
- a commitment to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
- a commitment to corporate worship and a small group activity.
- a commitment to “Love in Action.”
I believe a commitment to corporate worship and a small group activity assumes church membership.
The opportunity, privilege and responsibility to join a local church body is much more than a commitment to consistent attendance or active involvement in community. The church is the gathering of the redeemed, the household of God (Ephesians 2:19), the bride of Christ (Revelation 21:2, 9), and the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-31).
Membership at Grace Chapel is participation in a family, a snapshot of the universal household of God. All members are united to Christ and thus to each other. Unity within the church is expressed in love for God and a love for others.
The Pastors, Elders and Deacons are entrusted with protecting, leading, equipping, and caring for the corporate church body and the individual members. (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1-4)
Membership in a local church is a reasonable step in our spiritual growth.
-Membership at Grace Chapel gives us access to an environment where we “do life” with others who purpose to submit to the authority of the Scriptures as the final arbiter in matters of faith and life.
-Membership at Grace Chapel makes us part of a community of followers of Jesus who are committed to regular Bible reading, prayer, fellowship and “Love in Action.”
-Membership at Grace Chapel provides a platform to attend weekly services, engage in biblical community and serve one another.
-Membership at Grace Chapel gives us a place to invest the resources God has given us, including time, talents, spiritual gifts and finances.
-Membership at Grace Chapel communicates a willingness and commitment to both submit to the leaders of the church and be part of crafting the next chapter in the story of our church.
If you are a regular attender at Grace Chapel or any local church, I encourage you to take part in the next scheduled membership class.
