Our community is centered on faith in Jesus Christ and formed by the Gospel to share the Gospel.
As a community of believers in Jesus Christ, we go beyond and are called to be more than an evangelistic or teaching organization. We are individuals with faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior, forming a community centered around the Gospel to share the Gospel. Although some participate as attendees or guests, we also have fully committed members, which distinguishes them by their level of commitment.
According to scripture, there are two types of membership commitment. The first is membership within the universal Body of Christ, which transcends space and time (1 Corinthians 12:12-13; Ephesians 2:13-22, 4:3-6; Colossians 1:13-22). This membership is based solely on faith in Christ’s merit and grace and is eternal and unchanging. The Bible also encourages believers to join a local assembly and become members of a specific church (Romans 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 12:25-31, 14:12, 26; Hebrews 10:24-25; 1 Timothy 3:14-15).
Four Major Reasons for a Covenant Membership
BIBLICAL COMMITMENT:
Covenant membership is a biblical concept. We were never made and are not meant to be lone rangers or disconnected from the church, but rather part of a community of believers. Covenant membership formalizes your personal commitment in publicly declaring your intention to be an active part of the body of Christ. It is an act of obedience to Christ, who calls us to be part of a church family.
MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES:
Covenant membership opens up opportunities for ministry. When you join a church, you have the chance to use your gifts and talents to serve others. The church is not just a place to receive, but also a place to give. Through volunteering and serving, we each can make a difference in the lives of others as disciples of Jesus and advance the Kingdom of God.
SPIRITUAL GROWTH:
Covenant membership provides a context for spiritual growth. When you join a church, you are surrounded by people who are committed to helping one another grow in their faith in Christ Jesus. Through fellowship, Bible study, and worship, we have opportunities to learn, be encouraged, and be challenged to become more like Christ. A covenant membership also means that we are accountable to others, which can help us avoid the spiritual pitfalls of “consumer religion” and “church hopping”.
CHURCH UNITY:
Covenant membership embodies church unity. When you join a church, you are making a commitment to work together with others to accomplish the mission of the church. This means putting aside personal preferences and working toward a common goal. Covenant membership also means that you are part of a community that shares a common faith and purpose. This unity is a powerful witness to the world of the love of Christ and the reality of the gospel.