MEMBERSHIP: ITS BLESSINGS AND BENEFITS

“Membership has its Privileges” touts an American Express commercial.  The credit card and financial services company  has promoted the idea of membership for years.  Their slogan speaks of the benefits of membership.  The same is true of many clubs and organizations that are seeking to sell prospective members on the benefits of being in their organization.

The word “membership” is of Christian origin.  However, the world has high jacked the word and emptied it of its meaning.  Today we tend to think of membership as belonging to a club,  paying dues, attending meetings and following the rules or bylaws of the organization.

When God speaks of membership, He has quite a different view.  Paul wrote, “Now you are no longer strangers to God and foreigners to heaven, but you are members of God’s very own family…and you belong in God’s household with every other Christian” (Eph 2:19

Membership has to do with relationship.  It is part of being in a family.  It involves commitment and accountability.  It speaks of one’s identity.  This is the opposite of the individualistic attitude of a lot of people today.  Even some religious folks, say, “I don’t need to be a part of a church to be a good Christian.”  It has been said, “We are called, not just to believe, but to belong.” I agree. Christians are meant to be together.  To belong to the family.  To share its responsibilities. And to enjoy its benefits.

When you belong to a church family you benefit from support and encouragement (Heb 10:24-25).  The spiritual family is the best support group going. I am thankful to be a part of a church family.  It is privilege. As I write these word at the end of a wonderful Lord’s day, I was reminded again of the blessing of membership in the local church.

My church family offers a place to discover, develop and use your gifts, talents and abilities. Ministry is vital to the vitality of the family.  And what you offer benefits others, as well as yourself.

My church family provides protection  with the oversight of godly leaders who watch for the souls of the members. (Heb 13:17).  They Shepherd.  Pastor.  Guide.  And guard.

My church family furnishes an opportunity to grow spiritually.  A place to be accountable.

A place to get  involved. A place to develop spiritually maturity.  (Heb. 6:1-2)

My church family is place to meet with those of mutual faith (Heb. 10:25).  To jointly exalt Jesus. To collectively praise God.  To mutually experience the joy of worship.

And My church family is a fellowship where we enjoy a common bond. (Ac. 2:42-44.  A supportive community.   A warm companionship.  A spiritual communion.

Ah, membership.  It has its privileges.  And benefits.  Especially in the family of believers.  I sure hope you enjoy the same blessing with a community of Christians where you live.

    —Ken Weliever, The Preacherman