REASONS FOR RBC MEMBERSHIP
Commitment is a Biblical principle: When reading about the New Testament Church, especially Acts Chapter 2 verses 42-47, we see that the experience of the believers was one of deep commitment.

Committed relationships are God’s ideal for us. Whilst formal membership is never directly mentioned in the scriptures, the biblical message is consistent in its call to a deep level of commitment to God and to His people.

Kingdom growth in both depth and numbers is a consequence of being “joined and held together” as the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:16) Membership is a way of affirming your commitment to the body of Chirst.

Privileges and responsibilities: We see that membership is a privilege and has responsibilities with it. Members add to the church and make it more complete. Our Christian service isn’t restricted to the church’s premises, it’s to be part of our lifestyle at home, at work, at school, at play. Looking for the best in others, not engaging in gossip, accepting others in their uniqueness, and encouraging other believers is our responsibility.
Personal reading and studying the Bible is vital to our walk with Christ, as is personal and corporate prayer. We need to learn about the vision and ministries of the church, and where possible support and pray for the church mission and leaders. Worshiping with the church community regularly and being a part of a Life Group (small group) also help us to grow and experience God at work. The scriptures speak of tithing and giving of our monetary resources as well as our gifts and time to further Gods kingdom through the local church. Our possessions, skills, abilities and gifts are not just our own, we are to use them to bless others.
Above all, we are to keep growing in our relationship with Christ, living in a manner which is right and true - showing the love of Jesus through all our dealings with people and passing that truth onto others.

Decision – making: 

Members are able to vote on matters brought before a congregational meeting, such as the appointment of a pastor, the appointment of elders, the purchase of land or buildings, and other important decisions that the church may want to make. Non members are not able to vote (although they are welcome to attend congregational meetings).

Your ability to vote and make decisions with other believers form a sound foundation for the direction we take as a church.

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A last thought, You don't become a member just because you signed a document or a piece of paper. You are a member of the church because of the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. An active Christian choose to be part of the church when they give their life to Christ, accepting to be part of His body the Church. To Share, care love and belong.

Our belonging somewhere establishes a base from which we can reliably care for others. There are two sides to church membership, and we can’t keep others accountable for their good to a covenant we ourselves haven’t taken.

True love is not only manifest in affection and action, but also allegiance. We do not fully love our brothers and sisters in Christ if we withhold pledging our allegiance to them by covenanting with them in local-church life. Love doesn’t say, “I love these people and don’t need to covenant with them.” Rather, it says, “I love these people enough to covenant with them.”

Living the Christian life in community is more than just loose associations, but committing to each other to be there for each other when life is hard, in sickness and in sorrow.

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TAKE THE NEXT STEP
If you wish to become a member, talk to one of our pastoral staff. It’s a very simple process!

Complete this easy form - CLICK HERE

or email us - pastors@rbc.net.nz