The Church of Christ:  How to Become a Member

A common question for new church-goers is “How do I become a member of the church?” Depending upon the denomination, the answer varies. Yet, the beauty of the church of Christ is that spiritual questions are answered with Scriptural answers.

Since the church is of divine origin and is a divine institution, then God Almighty must have a divine answer to those seeking to become members. We do not need to leave this question to the varying opinions of man—the word of God will provide an answer for us.

In Paul’s letter to the Corinthians he says, “Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually” (1 Corinthians 12:27). Clearly, the idea of membership in the church of Christ is a Scriptural principle. Yet, how did they become “members?”

Take a look back at Acts 18. Verse 1 tells us that Paul spent some time in Corinth preaching the gospel and working with Aquila as a tentmaker. On the days Paul was off of work he spent his time preaching. Eventually, he was kicked out of the synagogue by the Jews, but was welcomed to teach in a house next door in the home of Crispus (Acts 18:4-7).

Acts 18:8 says, “Then Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized.”

The pattern within this passage is quite simple. Paul preached and Crispus and other inhabitants of Corinth heard his preaching. They believed in Jesus Christ as the Son of God. They were baptized into Jesus Christ. In fact, 1 Corinthians 12:13 agrees with this summary saying, “For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body…”

The way believers become members of the Lord’s church should be no different today than it was in the first century.

Hear the gospel preached and believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God. Be willing to confess that belief (Romans 10:10). Turn from your sins and follow the example of Jesus Christ as your Lord (Acts 2:38). Be baptized into Jesus Christ “for the remission of sins” and serve Christ with other members of His body.

For more information, request the Bible-based sermon series on “Membership” from October 2005 here or download the five sermon outlines on the "About the Church" page.

More on the Church of Christ