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Written by: The Orchard
On the surface, church membership may seem like it's just a formal relationship you have with your local house of worship. While this is true, belonging to the Body of Christ goes much deeper. Church membership is how Christians connect with and support each other and how they can get connected to a Gospel Preaching church.
Below, learn about the importance of church membership and how to join a church, plus tips on navigating The Orchard's membership process.
What Is Church Membership?
Church membership is the process of making a formal, public commitment to a Body of Christian believers who have chosen to come together to worship the Lord and hear God's spoken Word.
More than that, church membership is a declaration that you belong in the Kingdom of Christ. It's the profession that Jesus is the Lord of your life and that you're willing to commit your time, skills, and resources to further His Kingdom on earth in a local body of believers.
Why Does Church Membership Matter?
Church membership matters for a multitude of reasons.
Church membership provides people with opportunities to learn new skills and challenge their personal growth. Committing to anything is a big step and becoming a member of a church is one great way to push yourself outside your comfort zone to discover more about who you are in Christ Jesus.
Furthermore, belonging to a church family puts you under the care of elders and other spiritual leaders, who like God, have a desire to see you thrive while living in His commands. Church leaders provide counseling, support, and accountability to members in the same manner God's Word counsels us and holds us accountable. It is critical for believers to regularly hear and obey the Word of God – without it, Christians are like lost sheep without a shepherd.
Ultimately, however, Church membership is important because it's Biblical. Even though you don't find the phrase, church membership in the Bible, it's a clear command in the Bible. Just as you don't find the word, Trinity, in the Bible, it's a clear doctrine of the church. The same goes for church membership. God has called us out of this world, to join the body of Christ. Therefore, when we join our local body, we are obeying the Lord.
What Does the Bible Say About Church Membership?
Do you have to be a member of a church? This is one of the most common questions we get asked by people looking for God’s guidance on whether they should join a church, and if so, which one. Let’s take a look at what the Bible has to say about it:
God’s People Need Each Other
The Bible describes the church as the Body of Christ, which functions both separately and together to bring glory to God. Romans 12:4-5 says:
4 For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, 5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
Ephesians 2:19–22 offers more detail about this special relationship God has with His people. It says:
19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
God also commands that there be no division of the Body. 1 Corinthians 12:21-22 and 25 says:
21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” 22 On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable . . . 25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another.
Finally, God wants the Body to grow. Acts 2:41 says:
41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.
While Scripture has much more to say on the importance of serving God as a church member, we can conclude from these passages alone that finding a Body to belong to is an integral component of each person’s relationship with Him.
Become a Church Member
If you’ve decided that church membership is right for you, congratulations! You’re about to be part of a loving, growing community that serves the needs of God’s people all to glorify Him and bring the Kingdom of God ever closer.
Being a member of The Orchard gives you access to deeper connections, new opportunities and heartfelt discipleship that sets the stage for meaningful growth and development as part of our loving family.
Take the next step in your faith journey with The Orchard!
Close to our Chicagoland locations?
Find a campus near you
and join us in person.
Farther away? Join us online and be part of our growing community.
Have questions? We’re here to help!
What Is The Orchard’s Membership Process?
Becoming a church member at The Orchard can be done in 5 simple steps:
1. Fill Out a Membership Application
Complete The Orchard’s online membership application below at your convenience. If you are married, each spouse should fill out a separate application.
The Orchard Membership Application
2. Attend a Membership Class
Our interactive seminar allows people considering membership the opportunity to experience what we, as a church, believe, how our organization functions, and what it means to join the fold. Here, you'll have the chance to meet the pastor, who can answer your important questions about church membership and strengthening your relationship with God.
3. Meet with Leaders from The Orchard
If God is calling you to membership at The Orchard, one of our Deacons, Board Members, or a trusted church Member will meet with you to conduct a Membership Interview. This is another opportunity for you to get to know us better and consider how your God-given spiritual gifts can be of service to Him here.
4. Receive Approval from a Church Elders
Your request for membership will be submitted and reviewed by an Elders of The Orchard.
5. Attend a Membership Meeting
This is when you will be officially welcomed into The Orchard family. We believe family matters and our hearts are never too full to grow and share the love and forgiveness of Christ Jesus.
The Final Word
Membership is important to God, but it also has many benefits for you and your family. At The Orchard, we strive to make people feel loved and welcomed, just as Christ did with His disciples and each one of us. We hope to meet you soon.
Not ready for membership? Fill out our
Connection Card instead and a church Leader or trusted Member will get in touch to pray with you.
Join us at one of our 6 locations in the Chicagoland area:
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