A lot of great things have been happening around here. I hope you participated in the Koinonia activity. I have heard a variety of ways we have taken time to encourage each other and gotten to know one another better. If you didn’t take part this time, plan on doing it the next time. I guarantee you will be blessed.
Another great event was the baptism of Steve Rubinfeld. Be in prayer for his growth and for us as his Christian family that we will encourage him, teach him, and be Christ-like in our example. That same Sunday Joel and Elizabeth Nelson came forward as immersed believers to become part of this fellowship of believers.
Are some of you asking yourself, “Am I a church member? As an immersed believer, I am already a member of God’s church. Why does John say I need to come forward to make this my church home? I totally feel like this is my church home and I have a mailbox. So, what exactly is he talking about?” What we are talking about is local church membership.
Our church by-laws give a description of who can be a church member. ”Membership in this congregation shall consist of those persons who have confessed their faith in Jesus Christ before the congregation, have been baptized by immersion, have received the right hand of fellowship, and demonstrate their faith by Godly living as taught by Jesus Christ.”
Church membership expresses your desire to be an integral part of the local church. It is saying not only have I submitted to God and his commands, but I want to submit to the Elders of the local church. I want them to help me in my walk with God. I want them to hold me accountable. I want to serve this congregation in any way that I am able.
If you have questions about baptism or church membership, ask.
One of the ways you can serve as a church member is communion preparation. We have several months that need a volunteer. If you have never done it before, don’t worry. Someone will walk you through it. Check the month availability in the Library.
Looking forward to more great happenings in March!
Robin
Operation Christmas Child, item of the month: Quality crafts.
This can be something nice, made by you, or craft projects for the children to do. This can be as simple as beads and something to string them on, or for older kids something more complicated. USE YOUR IMAGINATION!
