Immediately following the launch of the “Church” on the day of Pentecost, born again believers began organizing themselves into local assemblies. The word translated “church” in the New Testament is overwhelmingly used in reference to local churches (over 85% of the time) and much less often used to refer to the Universal Church. Without using the word “church,” Hebrews 10:23-25 commands that brothers and sisters in Christ gather regularly to
encourage one another in the faith.
To be a part (or member) of a local church, a person must be a genuine believer in Jesus as Lord and Savior. After Peter’s sermon in Acts 2, the people asked, “What must we do?” in response to his Gospel message. Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized.” In doing so, they would express a faith in Jesus that went beyond simple belief as they committed themselves to Him as Lord.
Throughout the book of Acts, we find anyone could become a part of God’s people and a local congregation by repentance from sin, confession of Jesus Christ as Lord, and baptism as a display of their faith. This was true regardless of their background, tradition, race, gender, or religious experience. Going forward, local assemblies of believers were created throughout the known world by Paul and other missionaries.
Connecting with a local body of believers and identifying with a local church is important for many reasons. The most important reasons are: 1) the early church in the New Testament modeled it, 2) the New Testament commands it in Hebrews, 3) we need the encouragement, 4) Jesus ordained it, and 5) Jesus commanded the church to fulfill His mission.
Believers can join our church family in a few ways. The primary way is by professing faith in Jesus Christ and following Him in believer’s baptism. Though it is not required for salvation, baptism is the New Testament model for publicly identifying with Christ.
If you’re already a member of a like-minded church, you can join by “transfer of letter,” allowing us to notify your previous church. Alternatively, if you’re a baptized believer but not on another church’s membership roll, you can join by Statement of Faith after meeting with a pastor.
To join, you can come forward during the response time, speak with a pastor after the service, or schedule a meeting by using the button below. Our goal is to hear your faith story and help you find where God is leading you to worship and serve.