CHURCH MEMBERSHIP

 What does it mean to be a church member? What does that imply?

All too often, we tend to approach membership in our churches in a passive way similar to membership to clubs or other organizations. This leads us to a consumer concept of membership, whereby we are entitled to certain things or expect certain activities because we have paid our dues.

Perhaps it's time to reconsider the concept of church "membership." It's not about signing up to enjoy the benefits of a membership. It's about choosing to join with others and do life together as we seek to mutually grow in grace and in holiness. To not be passive spectators or consumers, but actively engaged in worship and discipleship and life with those around us who have made the same commitment.

As Bishop William Willimon states:

"The point is not membership. The church does not have clients, members, or consumers of goods and services. The point is discipleship. The church exists to form and sustain individuals and a people who are followers of Jesus Christ, who are his disciples. Rather than buying into a consumer model of the church, where the customer is king and the church simply meets customers' needs, the church does more; the church redefines our true needs. The church transforms people according to the life and pattern revealed by God in Jesus Christ. It unites them with others who are committed to this way of life."