become a member of church?

[Vickylhr]

Hi, I am currently making the decision on whether or not to join a church. I have finally found one that feels right, and I like its statement of faith and purpose. I was wondering what exactly is expected of one on becoming member of a church (this is a Union Evangelical Church). How much time is one expected to give for example. This worries me: its not that I don't want to give of my time, the thing is I don't have much of it and the church is quite a way to travel! So, I'm not sure of being able to give of myself what is required from a member. Also, economically I have little to give. Any advice? I have been told I should find a church I like and join by quite a few of you, but I feel I may not meet requirements.

[ephraimanesti]

Hi, I am currently making the decision on whether or not to join a church. I have finally found one that feels right, and I like its statement of faith and purpose. I was wondering what exactly is expected of one on becoming member of a church (this is a Union Evangelical Church). How much time is one expected to give for example. This worries me: its not that I don't want to give of my time, the thing is I don't have much of it and the church is quite a way to travel! So, I'm not sure of being able to give of myself what is required from a member. Also, economically I have little to give. Any advice? I have been told I should find a church I like and join by quite a few of you, but I feel I may not meet requirements.

MY SISTER,

The best thing to do would be to ask questions of the Pastor or whoever is the spiritual authority in the Church you are considering and find out directly what is expected of members.

Most Churches follow St. Paul's teaching (II Cor 8:12) that we are expected to give what we have, not what we don't have. Just be sure that you are honest with yourself and with God in this regard.

GOD'S BLESSINGS TO YOU,
ephraim

[breakingaway]

Hi there,

I'm not too sure what the church is like, it'll be best to check with the pastors or more mature Christians there.

For the church I go to, we have weekly services + cell groups and bible studies, those take up about a total of 7-8 hours a week. Serving in ministry is optional but encouraged.

Giving should be your tithes which is 10% of your income and offerings which should be up to the individual.

As for the distance, well, again, the church I attend is quite far from my home, but if you feel God calling you to that church, then it should be the one you attend. I've had friends inviting me for years to churches that were near my place or they could get their parents to drive over to pick me up cos we live pretty near each other, but I didn't go to those churches. But when another friend who I got to know for about a week or 2 asked me to her church, I just went and I've been going there ever since.

[jive4005]

MOST churches will want you to support them, both spiritually and financially. Tithing (giving 10% of your income to God via ministries) is popular but not required.

Here's the thing. If you are just going to be a spectator, then don't join. IF on the otherhand you want to help, serve and join the body of Christ in joy and sadness, in the work and the rewards... then join! It is all about motive, love and relationship with Christ and His church. Remember, it's about relationship with Christ FIRST... everything else comes after that!

His,
Rev J