Why is Church Membership Important?

This seems like a strange thing for a Church of God (Anderson, IN) pastor to write about. After all, we like to say, rather proudly, that we don't have formal church membership. Meaning we don't hand out membership cards at our churches. We like to tell people that the only way they can join is to become a follower of Jesus. While I agree with all that, I think it is important to realize that, with or without a certificate, it means something to be part of a church. There are certain things that persons should be able to expect from their church home. By the same token, there are things that church should be able to expect of its people.

But, before I get to that, let me assert that it is God's intention for we Christians to walk together as we walk with the Lord. Jesus brought His followers together and gave them the assignment to be witnesses of His life, death, and resurrection to the rest of the world. It is apparent from scripture that He always intended for His followers to work together; to be a Family; a People; a Nation. I defy you to find any "lone wolf" Christians in the New Testament. As unhandy, messy, and even heartbreaking as it can be at times, we are to do the Christian life together so we can fulfill the mission Jesus gave us.

So what should church members expect from their church? I can think of four major, reasonable expectations:
1. To encounter God through vibrant times of worship, dynamic interaction with God's Word, and loving relationships with the people of the church.
2. To be cared and prayed for, by trustworthy people with whom they share their lives, and who, along with a pastoral staff, encourage them through all the seasons of life.
3. To have opportunities to find their special gifts from God, and use them in helping the church fulfill its mission.
4. To enjoy being part of the great things God is doing both in, and through the church.

On the other hand the church should expect these things from its people:
1. To be fully committed to following Jesus Christ by seeking to grow in him, and serve his purposes.
2. To be regular in attendance, and financial support of the ministry of the church. As Jesus put it, "where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:21 (NIV)
3. To follow the leadership of the pastor, and pray God's guidance, and blessing upon him/her.
4. To participate in a small group or class to grow in knowledge of Christ, and share His love.
5. To volunteer time, and use spiritual gifts to advance the mission of the church.

Church members, brothers and sisters in Christ, need to be able to count on each other for mutual support. The Lord should find us faithful to Him, and His work. Finally, the lost and dying world, whether or not it is aware of it, needs each of us to do our part to share the saving love of Christ with it.