Membership Matters

Posted on February 25, 2011

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Membership Matters

WHY JOIN  A CHURCH?

Let’s face it, we need each other!

Why do the New Orleans Saints all wear the same uniform?  To identify that they are all on the same team.  Why do married people wear wedding rings?  To symbolize their commitment to a partner.  Why do we Christians get baptized?  To go public with our faith in Jesus Christ.

In the same way, church membership identifies your willingness to formally and publicly align with the mission, values, and beliefs of The Grove Church.

There are many reasons for having formal membership.
Here are a few…

ONE
Formal membership is valuable to the leaders of the church as they guide the church body.  Our mission here at The Grove Church is “to connect people to God, to others, and to service.”  We have been left on earth by God to reach unbelievers.  So at some point it is important to identify those who truly comprise the “family” at TGC, the core that can be counted on to build and sustain the ministries of this church.

TWO
Accountability.  While it is true that everyone can participate in just about anything around here, there are certain leadership responsibilities that are reserved for those who have made themselves accountable to the church through membership.  Even if you are not ready to become a leader yourself, you may be relived to know that those members in leadership positions have agreed through membership to support this ministry and to be held accountable.

THREE
Even though you will not find the term “church member” in Scripture, it seems that the concept of belonging is found throughout the New Testament.  Believers clearly identified themselves with a specific local body and were challenged to become devoted participants.

FOUR
Experience shows that membership benefits the individual.  In a culture where commitment is no longer highly valued, recognizable membership is an important step that moves each of us off the sidelines and into the game.  It is letting the church leadership know, “You can count on me.”  Members typically feel more ownership in the church.  They feel like shareholders rather than spectators.  They usually find it easier to connect with others and build lasting relationships

So, while you won’t receive an engraved plaque or a reserved parking spot when you become a member, you will draw great satisfaction from knowing that you are a part of something bigger than yourself, something eternal.  We want you to partner with us in reaching our world for Jesus Christ.

Over the next few weeks, you will have the opportunity to mark on your Connection Card, “I would like to join The Grove Church.”  I encourage you to commit to membership as early as possible. God bless!

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