The Bible speaks about being "members of Christ's Body". This "Body of Christ" or "Church" in the universal sense is made up of all people anytime and anywhere who have trusted their lives to Christ as their Savior and Lord.

However, the majority of times the word "church" appears in the New Testament it is not referring to this universal church. It is referring to a local congregation who came together in their communities regularly to worship, celebrate the Lord’s supper, serve and encourage each other, and minister to those in need.

" Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." Acts 2:41-47

Q & A – CHURCH MEMBERSHIP

Why is it important for me to belong to a church?

Belonging to a church is saying, "I belong to this family and they belong to me." In the church, you come together with other believers to worship God and receive instruction on how to be a more faithful follower of Christ.

Are there specific requirements for membership at Bethel?

Yes. To become a member at Bethel we require:

A statement (your testimony) of how you came to faith in Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.
A desire to live the kind of life our Lord calls us to live.
Baptism by immersion as a believer. (see Baptism)
A willingness to abide by Bethel’s Statement of Faith and Church Covenant (see section Statement of Faith).
A desire to serve the Lord in a way consistent with Bethel's calling from God.

What steps do I need to take to become a member?

First, tell us by contacting one of the pastors, elders, or the church office. You will be given an Application Form to fill out and return.

Once we receive your Application, we’ll schedule a meeting for you with the Baptism/Membership Committee. The purpose of the meeting is for you to share your personal testimony of faith and for them to answer your questions about Bethel and its teaching on baptism, membership, etc.

After you meet with the Committee, your testimony of how you came to faith in Christ is shared with the congregation either in writing or verbally.

If you haven’t already been baptized by immersion as a believer, you will need to do so (see Baptism). Then, your name will be brought before the elders to approve your membership.

Can I join Bethel if I’m not Baptist?

Yes. Anyone who is willing to meet the membership requirements is welcome to join.

Is there a class I can attend to learn more about Bethel?

Yes. As a new member or someone interested in joining, you can attend our "Welcome to Bethel" class. "Welcome to Bethel" is a six-week course that is scheduled several times during the year on Sunday mornings.

How does membership status impact the service roles I can participate in?

God's plan is to use each of us to serve Him and others. Almost all volunteer opportunities are available to those who regularly attend Bethel even if they have not yet become a member. Exceptions are elected positions (e.g., elder, treasurer) and lead teacher positions in our ministries.

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