The Church's Membership
Why should Christians be church members?
Through membership, Christians make a personal commitment to the body of Christ.
...in a spirit of gentleness.
Galatians 6:1
1 Corinthians 12:4
Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit.
And I saw the holy city...
Revelation 21:2
Psalm 103:19
The LORD has established his throne in the heavens,
and his kingdom rules over all.
For just as the body...
1 Corinthians 12:12
Galatians 6:1
Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.
...use it to serve one another...
1 Peter 4:10
2 Peter 3:13
But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
What is the overarching theme of Scripture?
The kingdom of God is the overarching theme of Scripture.
1 Corinthians 12:12
For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.
If your brother...
Matthew 18:15
1 Peter 4:10
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.
What is God’s plan for the end times?
In the end, God will defeat evil and establish His kingdom on earth.
...but of righteousness and peace and joy...
Romans 14:17
...if he refuses to listen even to the church...
Matthew 18:17
Matthew 18:15
If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.
How are Christians enabled to serve one another?
Each believer has been given a gift to minister in the church.
...in which righteousness dwells.
2 Peter 3:13
Romans 14:17
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 18:17
f he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.
How does the church stay pure?
The church must practice church discipline.
...varieties of gifts...
1 Corinthians 12:4
Revelation 21:2
And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
...his kingdom rules over all.
Psalm 103:19