Local Church Membership

Introduction:

            Christianity involves activity and some of that activity involves working together with other Christians. Each Christian needs to understand the importance of our collective work. Sadly, many Christians live as though they believed that being a Christian involves minimal involvement with the local congregation. Why does this happen? Some may not understand the congregational fact of life in Christ. We must live our lives in a way in which we are connected to other Christians.

I.  The Together aspect of life in Christ.

A.    We have fellowship with one another.  (Acts 2:42)

B.    We are part of a brotherhood of believers. (1 Tim. 3:5)

C.    We are members of one another. (Rom. 12:5; Eph. 4:25)

II.  The Concept of Local Church Membership.

A.    “local” church different from the “universal” church.

1.     universal church is the sum of all Christians.

2.     local church is a specific group of Christians who function together as a congregation.

B.    The idea of becoming a Christian and never a part of a local congregation is foreign to the scriptures.

III.  Responsiblities to other Christians:

A.    Think of the proper attitude we should have for each other:

1.     1 Cor. 12:21 – willingness to cooperate, work together.

2.     1 Cor 12:25-26 – concern for one another.

3.     Phil. 2:3 – humility, lowliness of mind.

4.     Rom. 14:17-19 – a peaceable spirit.

5.     1 Thess 1:2-3 – appreciation for others and their work.

6.     Philemon 7 – friendliness; warmth

7.     Galatians 6:1 – gentleness; meekness

8.     Col. 3:12-13 – forebearance, longsuffering, patience, forgiveness

9.     Col. 3:14 – love. See also John 13:34-35

B.    Things we do for others:

1.     Acts 9:26 – place membership with a local congregation.

2.     Pray for others w/in the congregation – Philippians 1:9-11

3.     submit to the congregation’s elders – 1 Thess. 5:12-13; Heb. 13:7, 17

4.     Attend the assemblies of the congregation – Heb. 10:23-25

5.     Contribute financially – 1 Cor. 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 9:6-7

6.     Maintain unity w/in the body – John 17:20-23

IV.  What about when problems come to the congregation?

A.    Too often when problems arise – people leave congregation – w/little attempt to work out their problems.

B.    When we place membership w/a congregation – it involves a commitment.

1.     to grow up; walk on our own; and give back to the congregation.

2.     to be loyal to each other – through thick & thin…

3.     to work things out with people when problems come up.

4.     to respond positively to biblical teaching

5.     to help each other get to heaven.

C.    There are principles in scripture that point us toward congregational loyalty.

Conclusion:

A.    Much of the joy we experience in Christ comes from our relationships w/other Christians. 3 John 3-4; Phil. 1:3-5