What is Church Membership?
'Church membership' is never mentioned within the Bible. However, being a member of 'Christ's body' (His church) is mentioned numerous times. The Church of Jesus Christ consists of all who have placed their trust in Jesus Christ to provide forgiveness for their sins. Central is but one part of the total 'body of Christ' (Christ's Church). Therefore, to be a member at Central you basically need to become of member of Christ's Church.
How to Become a Member of Christ's Church?
Membership at Central is extended to all people who are members of Christ's Church. This means they have established a trusting faith in Jesus to provide forgiveness from their sins, according to this simple Bible formula;
- Acknowledge Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior
- Turn from a life of sin (repent)
- Be baptized (immersed) in water in obedience to Christ
(Acts 2:36-41; 16:29-34, Rom. 10:8-10)
Why Become an Official Member of Christ's Church that Meets at Central?
At CCC we recognize the value in church membership. We ask you to commit to membership at Central for four reasons:
- A BIBLICAL REASON: CHRIST IS COMMITTED TO HIS CHURCH
'Christ loved the church, and He gave His life for it.' (Ephesians 5:25).
- A CULTURAL REASON: IT IS A STATEMENT TO OUR SOCIETY
We live in an age where very few want to be committed to anything ... a job ... a marriage ... our country. This attitude has produced a generation of 'church shoppers and hoppers.' Church membership makes a powerful statement to our non-committed culture. It's a selfless decision. Commitment always builds character.
- A PRACTICAL REASON: IT DEFINES WHO CAN BE COUNTED ON
Every team must have a roster. Every school must have an enrollment. Every business has a payroll. Every army has an enlistment. Even our country takes a census and requires voter registration. Membership identifies our church family and makes our church leaders know who they are responsible for.
- A PERSONAL REASON: 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.
What is Expected of me as a Member of Central Christian Church?
Just as Jesus expects all of his followers to grow in their relationship with God and with others, so too we will challenge the members of CCC to grow in their love and knowledge of God, and in their love and service for others.
Some of the places where spiritual growth happens are:
- In small group Bible studies;
- In regular prayer times;
- In serving in a ministry;
- In giving of our talents and treasure; and
- In worship together with other Christ-followers.
What Classes Does Central Offer to Help me Become a Mature Member?
There are four basic classes that are taught at regular intervals throughout the year. These classes help lead a person to become a devoted follower of Jesus.
- CLASS 101 - 'Discovering Christ and Central Christian Church'
'How to Become a Follower of Jesus'
- CLASS 201 - 'Discovering Discipleship'
'How to Grow in My Relationship with Jesus'
- CLASS 301 - 'Discovering My Ministry and Spiritual Giftedness'
'Where to Serve Jesus'
- CLASS 401 - 'Discovering My Mission'
'How to Share My Faith'