EP6: Why is Membership a Discipleship Issue?
Play • 28 min

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and Daniel Moore discuss the biblical and historical basis for membership in a local church. From the beginning, we read in the Scriptures how God covenanted with his people (i.e. Abraham, David) to bring salvation to man. The promise was fulfilled in Christ, and believers are now united to Christ and live in communion with him and one another. Salvation is, ultimately, not about me but we. The Church, as established by Christ and the apostles, is the living organism through which Jesus invites people to follow him, to experience life transformation, and to carry out his mission of reconciling the world to himself.

Our consumer-driven, self-reliant mindset keeps us isolated from the Body of Christ and hinders our ability to experience healing. We all have blind spots and need others to “see” for us, hold us accountable, and encourage us on the journey. Spiritual formation requires obedience, humility, a willingness to submit to authority, and a commitment to love others as Christ loves us. Because church membership is not something to dismiss or take lightly, Grace Church makes intentional efforts to prepare people for this life-changing commitment. When we commit to the local church, the church is also committing to us.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION:

  1. What is your current understanding of the local church and its purpose in the lives of Christ’s followers, and how have you been challenged by what you’ve just heard?
  2. Daniel Moore discussed the need for all believers to be under spiritual authority. How has your personal experience shaped how you view authority?
  3. What concerns and fears do you have about church membership, and what is one step you can take toward the local church?

If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at gracechurchsc.org/whydiscipleship

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