Local church membership is simply “committed love.” Membership consists of fulfilling certain responsibilities and enjoying certain benefits. It is committed love. Mark Dever writes, “Church membership is our opportunity to grasp hold of each other in responsibility and love. By identifying ourselves with a particular church, we let the pastors and other members know that we intend to be committed in attendance, giving, prayer, and service. We allow fellow believers to have greater expectations of us in these areas, and we make it known that we are the responsibility of the local church. We assure the church of our commitment to Christ in serving with them, and we call for their commitment to serve and encourage us as well” (Mark Dever, Nine Marks of a Healthy Church, 168).
Membership Matters
1. The Community of the New Covenant
2. Church Leadership
3. The Keys of the Kingdom
4. Church Discipline
5. A Culture of Discipleship
6. The Mission of the Church
7. Job Description of a Church Member
How to Become a Member
1. Enroll and Take the Membership Class -
This class will introduce you to SSBC's basic beliefs, define our purpose, and explain why church membership is important. In addition, you will be guided through making connections at SSBC in relationships, serving, discipleship, and membership.
Register for the Next Class:
2. Elder Interview
The next step is to meet with one of SSBC's elders. This a chance for you to clarify any questions you have about SSBC and a chance for our elders to hear from you. This meeting is schedule at the end of the membership class.
3. Congregational Affirmation
Lastly, at a membership meeting an elder will then present you before the congregation and share your testimony. We are an elder-led, congregation-ruled church, which means the congregation has final authority on the membership of the church. Since this meeting is for members, you will not be present until you have been affirmed by the congregation.