God’s Word calls every believer to identify with the church, His body. (Ephesians 2:19) A willingness to become a member says two things: “I am professing that I know Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Savior, and I am committed to this body of believers.”

What are the prerequisites for membership?

Profession of faith
Through the working of the Holy Spirit, a person must believe that Jesus Christ is God’s Son, that He was crucified, buried and rose again for all men’s sin, that they might have everlasting life (Romans 10:9-10), then receive Him as Savior and Lord by praying and asking Him to forgive their sins, and surrendering their will to His. (Acts 2:21, 1 John 1:9)

Baptism
Prior to official church membership, a person must be baptized (which means “to dip under”) by immersion in accordance with God’s Word, as a symbol of their commitment to Christ and their obedience to following His commands.

New members class
New members are required to attend a three-hour class, which will help them to understand who we are, what we believe and where we are going in the future. The new members class is held once each quarter.

Why is baptism so important?

Baptism is part of the spiritual growth process of the believer. It is a symbol of the change that Christ has made in a person’s heart and life. It indicates that a person has chosen, of their own accord, to turn away from the sin in their life and live a new life in Christ, through the power of His resurrection.

How do I join?

There are four ways in which a person can join the church:

1. Make a profession of faith before the congregation that they have received Jesus into their heart and life, and follow Him in believer’s Baptism.

2. Transfer their membership from another Baptist church.

3. Make a statement of faith in Jesus Christ, if they have already been scripturally baptized (by immersion) in another Christian denomination.

4. Persons from other communities or locations may join by way of “Watchcare”. These individuals may only be here for a short time, (e.g. college students) and intend to leave the area eventually. This identifies them with this body of believers and allows them serve in leadership positions while they seek His direction in their lives. They do not have voting privileges.

Why is it important to come down front in order to join?

Jesus said, “Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven.” (Matthew 10:32). Coming forward during the invitation time in our worship service helps people begin their walk with Christ by taking a public stand for Him. For those who are already Christians, this is an opportunity for them to publicly profess their faith, as well as identify with Christ’s body, the church.

Can I get involved in the ministries of the church if I am not a member?

You may be a helper in various church ministries, provided you have been trained to do so. However, in order for you to be considered for a position of leadership, you must become a member. Leadership is a privilege and it is very important that the church have as their leaders those who have professed Christ publicly and have also committed themselves to the local body of Elders Baptist Church.

Do I have to be baptized again?

If a person has been scripturally baptized by immersion in a recognized Christian church, there is no need to be baptized again.