The Gospel and Church Membership: A Vital Connection
As a pastor with over twenty years of experience, I’ve encountered numerous individuals who are skeptical about the importance of church membership. They argue that Christianity is primarily about a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, and that attaching oneself to a local church is unnecessary. However, I firmly believe that church membership is a natural outgrowth of the gospel, and that it plays a vital role in our walk with Christ.
Reconciled to God, Reconciled to His People
The gospel is often reduced to a personal relationship with God, but it’s so much more than that. When we come to Christ, we’re not only reconciled to God, but also to his people. The Bible teaches us that sinners are hostile not only to God, but also to those who bear his image. Our broken relationship with God creates broken relationships with others. However, through the gospel, we’re restored to fellowship with God and with other redeemed sinners.
The Gospel Produces Love for God and Love for His People
What does the gospel produce in us? Love for God and love for his people. Being reconciled to God means being reconciled to everyone else who is reconciled to God. This isn’t just an inference of the gospel message; it’s explicitly taught throughout the New Testament. For example, in Ephesians 2, Paul describes how the gospel restores our fellowship with God and with other believers.
Church Membership: A Visible Expression of Our Unity
Local church membership is one way we make our unity with other believers visible and plain. It’s not the only way we clarify the distinction between the world and the church, but it’s an important one. When we receive God’s mercy, we become part of “a people” (1 Pet. 2:10). When we receive God’s grace (Eph. 2:1–10), we’re included in a covenant community (Eph. 2:11–20). Reconciled to God, reconciled to his people – this is the heart of church membership.
A Family with Flesh-and-Blood People
When we come to Christ, he folds us into a family – a family with actual flesh-and-blood, step-on-your-toes people. Church membership is the natural outgrowth of the gospel. It’s not just about attending services or participating in programs; it’s about being part of a community of believers who are committed to loving and serving one another.
Conclusion
In the end, church membership is not just about us; it’s about God and his people. It’s about being part of a community that reflects the love and unity of the Trinity. If you’re a Christian, I encourage you to join a local church and become a part of this beautiful expression of God’s love.
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