Church Membership What is church? It is important to remind ourselves that Church is entirely different to any secular organisation, and so it conducts itself differently to the way the world does things. The church is made up of relationships, responsibilities, giftings, calling, vision and leadership, all defined by the teachings of the bible. Membership of a church marks out those people who desire to make these things a central part of their lives, as the people of God. What is the biblical foundation for church membership? Although church membership isn't defined explicitly in the bible, the church knew the "number" that made up the church (Acts 2:41,47). People were sometimes formally excluded from their number (1 Cor. 5:2), which implies there was a formal inclusion as well. The apostle Paul described those who were "inside" and "outside" of the church (1 Cor. 5:12-13). Paul also speaks about the "members in the body" (1 Cor. 12:14-18). Therefore we can say: i) The leadership knew the number of those who were in the church, ii) The boundaries of the church were clearly defined, and iii) There was some sort of formal process by which people were recognised as being "members in the body", among their "number" and "inside" the church. What are the criteria for church membership? Visitors will always be welcome to join us for public meetings. However, membership in a local church only belongs rightly to those who already belong to God by faith in His Son Jesus Christ. Therefore, the necessary criteria for church membership are regeneration (spiritual new-birth in Christ, through faith) and baptism (the public declaration and symbol of this new-birth). What are the expectations of church members? The expectations of each member are that i) they be committed to the church and its vision, ii) become an active and effective part of the community of the church; and iii) be accountable to the leadership of the church. Committed to the church and its vision The church is God's idea, and he has given to the church a high and awesome calling: to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to make disciples of all peoples. By becoming a member of the church, we commit ourselves to the particular expression of this purpose and calling that City Church has been given. Also, the only way to "seek first the kingdom of God" is through the local church, and by becoming a member you join with others who also desire to "seek first" the kingdom of God in Dundee. Without a shared commitment from its members, any attempt at fulfilling the vision of the church will be fragmentary and ineffective. Membership allows us to move forward as one body, and not just many individuals. Being part of the community of believers Salvation is much more than a "decision", but a continuous process of sanctification and growth towards maturity in Christ. The body of Christ is the main instrument God uses to help us grow and become more like Christ. Being a member of the church allows us to find our place within this body, and to understand our obligation to be a joint that holds together other joints (Eph. 4:16). If we only had a loose affiliation to the church, we would be unable to be a strong, effective "joint", and we would place ourselves at a distance from other "joints" who hold us. Membership demonstrates to one another that we are serious about loving, serving and upholding each other. Accountable to the leadership of the church Leaders have been entrusted with the responsibility of watching over our souls (Heb 13:17) and to ensure we grow and become more like Christ. This is part of the purpose of the church. Membership provides a context within which we can be discipled effectively and safely. By being a member, we let the pastors and other members know that we permit them to hold us to account for living according to God's ways, as revealed to us in His word. If we are a member, we place ourselves in a position within the body to benefit from all the gifts and ministries that God has given to shape and sharpen our lives - even when it may be uncomfortable and difficult. Can membership be dangerous? Yes, it can. This is why it is essential that only true believers become members. If we can be confident that each member enjoys a living, authentic commitment to Christ and to His body on earth (the Church) then being within the body of believers is the safest place we can be, outside of heaven.

Richard Hobson, 10/01/2007