It’s Essential to be a Member
In recent weeks, I’ve stayed more nights in a hotel than is usual for me. I am definitely not a world traveler, but, for whatever reason, nights in hotels have added up over the past month or so.
One thing that happens, especially when you stay in a “chain” hotel, is that you see ads about joining some type of reward program. Maybe it’s a sign in the room. Maybe it’s on the Wi-Fi login page. Maybe there is a sign in the lobby.
But the point is the same: if you’re a member, it gives you something, so it’s better than not being a member.
Sadly, there are a lot of people who treat church membership the same way. They spend some time shopping around, seeing which place has what can benefit them the most, and then they “sign up.” However, if they feel that someone else has better benefits, they bolt. (Oh, and then there are some who–like me with the hotels–never sign up. They are perpetual free agents.)
Membership with a local congregation is not like a hotel rewards’ club. Certainly, there are benefits that come with being a member, but, when it comes to the Lord’s Church, being a member is essential.
How else can elders oversee your soul if you are not a member?
How else can you get involved and be active if deacons do not know if they can ask for your help?
How can you know who to build up and forgive and encourage and do any of the other “one anothers” with if you are not a member.
To be fair, it can take a little time to find a congregation when you move to a new town or when you go away to college. Some, though, use that as an excuse to seemingly never find a new church home. That way, they do not have the responsibility that comes with being a member.
But the responsibility is part of the blessing! You are a vital part of that congregation. You are helping to build it up. You are carrying both the good and the bad with your new brothers and sisters. You have spiritual shepherds–elders–who are watching for your soul.
It’s not “better,” like one hotel chain over another. It’s essential. Get in there and be a member…
…oh, and an active member at that.
AUTHOR: Adam Faughn