Become A Member!

Jesus said “I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it”. He was talking
about the world-wide universal church made up off all those who have believed in him and
accepted him as Lord and Savior. But when he asked John to take dictation of his messages to 7
specific churches in 7 specific cities as recorded in Revelations, he was referring to individual
churches in various locations.

When Paul claims that before he met Jesus personally, he “persecuted the church”, he was
speaking about all Christ’s followers, wherever they might be. But when he sends greetings to
his fellow workers Priscilla and Aquilla, and added “Greet the church that meets at their house”,
he was referring to the group of Christians who were regularly meeting together to help each
other grow in Christ, and more effectively serve God together.

Hebrews give us the purpose of joining a specific local church, and being committed to it.
Apparently there were some who had decided they didn’t need the encouragement, and help
of others. “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage
one another–and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” The preceding verse offers more clear
purpose for being committed to a specific group of Christians. “And let us consider how we may spur
one another on toward love and good deeds.”

Two common reasons for not making that commitment are “they don’t need me”, or “I don’t need
them”. Note Paul’s challenge to each of these excuses. “And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an
eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body… The eye
cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” … Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a
part of it.

If you have sensed God leading you to be part of our church at Bethel, we would love to recognize you
officially as one of us. Please ask for a membership application from the WELCOME DESK.
Together. We are better.

In Christ and with Love,
Pastor John