Grace Church Membership Covenant

Call to Covenant Membership

For many years in most Western countries, church membership has meant nothing more than occasional attendance and recognition by the church treasurer, with little expectation of participation in any meaningful way. But low personal commitment is exactly the opposite of how the church is described in the Bible. Jesus gave himself entirely for the church, the covenant people of God. He said, “I will build my church, and the gates of Hell will not overcome it” [Matt. 16:18]. At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit did what man cannot do: he baptized new believers into Christ and into the body of Christ [1 Cor. 12:13]. Thus, the Bible teaches that someone who belongs to Jesus Christ belongs to Christ’s Body – the people of God.

There has never been, nor is there now, any option for solo Christianity. If you are a follower of Jesus Christ, you must belong to His body, His church. Jesus teaches throughout the Gospels that the demands and personal commitment of the Christian life are high. He has given his all for us. How can He expect little or nothing of us in return?

Membership is Not for Everyone

Not everyone is called to covenant membership in this particular church. We are a unique group: church planting, in the Anglican tradition and so on. We have a big vision, and so we need people for this work. But the bottom line is that we simply don't need you to commit to membership, if you aren't called to join yourself to this work of God.

You are always welcome at Grace Church. If you aren't sure that God is calling you to covenant membership at this time, know that you are welcome to come and receive. You are not a second-class citizen. The Lord Himself joins us to the local church. Until He has done that in you, we prefer that you come and let Him bless you through your participation.

These promises are a public covenant, but also can be used as a tool for self-assessment throughout the year, and especially during Advent and Lent.

Faith

I am a Christian, baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

• Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior.

• His perfect life, sacrificial death and resurrection are my only hope for redemption from sin, death and divine judgment.

• I believe that there is no other name by which people may be saved.

Primary Vocation

I am an ambassador of Jesus.

• I commit myself to the vision of this church in being and bringing the gospel to Dothan.

• I believe that the gospel is for all people and all places.

• I long for the day when this city will be known for its faith, hope and love rather than its crime, poverty, and corruption.

• I will invite the unchurched to attend my church, and I will warmly welcome anyone who attends.

Foundation

I conform my life to the Word of God.

• I believe the Bible is God's Word written and the supreme authority in the life of this church.

• I understand that Grace Church relies on the Apostles Creed, the Nicene Creed, and the 39 Articles of Religion as faithful summaries of what the Bible teaches.

Heart-Attitude

I work to preserve the unity and peace of my church.

• I will practice the humility and sacrificial attitude of Christ by first considering others needs, speaking the truth in love, seeking spiritual friendships, guarding against gossip, and praying for my brothers and sisters in Christ.

• I will respect and follow the leaders of my church.

• I submit to loving biblical church discipline. If I fall into a pattern of sin, I expect loving correction. When I am growing spiritually, I expect encouragement.

Stewardship

 I properly manage the resources God has given me.

• I will be a good steward of my time, body, gifts and talents, attitudes, finances and possessions.

• I will serve in the ministry of this church by using the gifts God has given me.

• I will give financially to this church—regularly, sacrificially and cheerfully.