Mercy Hill

Membership is an ancient church practice that, though not commanded in so many words in the Bible, is nevertheless supported by many principles in Scripture.

Membership, in fact, is based on the heart of God who is Triune, His Three Divine Persons being in community with One Another, and Members of One Another.

As for people, who are the objects of God's Saving Love, Jesus Himself said, "Not one of these little ones of mine shall perish," and "I know my sheep and they hear my voice."

This kind of specificity and personal knowledge runs throughout the Story of God.

God is not distant. God knows us personally and keeps track of us, to love us, care for us, and rescue us when we're in danger.

Following God, then, the Old Testament people of God kept track. Throughout the Pentateuch and the Prophets, we find again and again lists of names--people and families who were in covenant with God.

This same practice continues in the New Testament, with some added glory. Not only were new believers "added to the number" in the book of Acts--the "number" signifying that there was a list being kept of the believers in any given city--but membership makes a theological and symbolic connection to Jesus.

We are told that when we belive in Jesus for eternal life, we become "members of the Body of Christ," Jesus Himself being the Head. Additionally, by becoming united to Christ in this way, we also become united to one another, and therefore "members" of one another.

We're never given an option: membership in Jesus means membership with other people.

And not just people in theory. Joining a specific group of people in a specific place--called a local church--is the way we believe Scripture calls us to demonstrate the reality of our faith.

So, while there is no specific commandment to be a member of a church, it is an obedient act that brings tremendous benefits.

Nevertheless, because membership as a term in the Bible is usually reserved to describe our participation in the invisible Body of Christ, we call "membership" at Mercy Hill being "in covenant" with this church family.

If, even after understanding these truths, you still have remaining struggles with being in covenant with a church family like Mercy Hill, please contact us and meet with one of our pastors or leaders. We are more than willing to discuss how we can help you in your journey of faith.

Last updated on January 11, 2011 by Phil Henry