Where did church membership start? The New Testament clearly shows us why church membership is vital for Christ-followers. Here are a few of the examples: It gives the accountability that is needed to produce spiritual
growth (Hebrews 3:12–13). It is difficult to be accountable when you are not connected with other Christ-followers. The apostles traveled from town to town establishing local groups of Christ-followers who were led by elders and pastors (Acts
14:21–23; Titus 1:5; Ephesians 4:11–12; 1 Timothy 5:17–20; 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13).
These local spiritual leaders were directly responsible to God for their members’ well-being (Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:1–4, Acts 20:28–31).
Christians in the New Testament would willingly identify themselves with these groups as Christ-followers (Acts 11:22–26; 14:21–28; 15:40–41; 16:4–5; Romans 16:1–5, 1 Corinthians 1:2; Philippians 1:1; Colossians 4:15; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; Philemon
1:1–2).
Why is it still important?
A team has a roster, a business has employees, a country has citizens, and a church has members. We all have a need to belong.
Becoming a Del Sol Church member will identify you with your spiritual family. The church leaders need to identify those they can rely on to build and sustain the ministries of the church. Church membership identifies you as a Christian brother or
sister who will receive priority when finite church resources are needed (Galatians 6:10).