MEMBERSHIP

The difference between ATTENDERS and MEMBERS can be summed up in one word: Commitment.

At Hope, we ask you to commit to becoming a member for the following reasons:

A Biblical Reason

Christ is committed to the church.

            Christ loved the church, and He gave His life for it." - Ephesians 5:25

A Cultural Reason

It is an antidote to our society. We live in an age where very few want to commit to anything - job, marriage, our country, etc. This attitude has produced a generation of "church shoppers" who constantly ask, "What's here for me?" Becoming a member swims against America's "consumer religion." It is an unselfish decision. Commitment always builds character.

A Practical Reason

It defines who can be counted on. Every team has a roster; every school has an enrollment; every army has an enlistment. Even our country takes a census and requires voter registration. Being a member identifies our family.

A Personal Reason

1. It produces spiritual growth. The New Testament places a major emphasis on the need for Christians to be accountable to each other for spiritual growth. You cannot be accountable when you are not committed to any specific church family. (Galatians 6:1-2; Hebrews 10:24-25; Ephesians 5:21).
2. It provides a place to use your spiritual gifts. (1 Corinthians 12:4-27).
3. It places you under the spiritual protection of Godly leaders. (Hebrews 13:7 & 17; Acts 20:28-29).