better together

following the new testament pattern

Although the word “membership” is never used, the principle is clearly seen. Most of our NT books are letters written to specific local churches, while the word “church” is almost always used to refer to specific groups of Christ-followers in a local setting. Numbers were known (Acts 1:15; 2:41; 4:4), lists were kept (1 Timothy 5:9), servants were selected (Acts 6:2-5), accountability was practiced (1 Corinthians 5:12), and church leaders knew for whom they were responsible (Hebrews 13:17). If you are part of the worldwide body of Christ you should want to make that association visibly known through membership in a local church.

Finding more opportunities to use your gifts & talents

When you received Jesus Christ into your life the Holy Spirit came to live inside you (Ephesians 1:13), providing you with spiritual gifts to be used to build up and extend the work of the Christ (1 Corinthians 12:7-11). By using these gifts as well as our talents and abilities to serve others, we are being faithful stewards of God’s grace in our lives (1 Peter 4:10). Can these gifts be used without joining a local church? Yes, but in most local churches there are always ministry opportunities that are limited to church members, and this is how it should be. Unity in doctrine, purity of life and choosing to be accountable to one another and to leaders are all necessary for a healthy Christian life. The process of becoming a member also provides existing leadership the opportunity to discern one’s agreement with doctrine, ministry purposes and goals, enabling them to know where you can best serve.

Fulfilling God’s Call to Build a Healthy Local Church

Becoming a member of a local church demonstrates a certain level of spiritual maturity and commitment. It shows that you want to fully engage and that you recognize the value of spiritual family. The NT makes clear that it is God’s will for every believer to be planted in a local church, that we might grow together with other believers (Ephesians 4:11-16) learn to love and serve one another in mutually accountable relationships (John 13:34-35) and reach our community and world for Christ (1 Thessalonians 1:8).

Steps to Membership at Hillcrest

1. Read our Articles of Faith & Practice.

2. Complete the Church Membership Form.

3. Our Membership Pastor will contact you.