Membership

does Membership matter?

In the Bible, being a part of the local church body was a big deal. The New Testament book of Acts describes the beginning of the church through the apostles. There are several examples of Peter, Paul, Stephen and others gathering “those who believed” in a local assembly to worship, receive instruction, and live in community with one another (Acts 2:41, 2:47). Throughout Paul’s letters to the churches, there is much reference and instruction to the local body of believers about leadership, accountability, conduct, offerings, etc. We are instructed to “assemble” together (Hebrews 10:24-25), to use our gifts to build the church (Ephesians 4:15-16), that pastors & elders are to exercise leadership (Hebrews 13:17), and that churches are to exercise discipline within the body (I Corinthians 5:1-2, Matthew 18:15-20). You will find many metaphors used in Scripture which reference that the relationship between Jesus and believers is about connection, such as the Head and the Body, Bridegroom and the Bride, Shepherd and the sheep.

For us, membership is all about being “all in”!

Why should I join ... Really?

As a church, we want to be aligned and pursuing our vision/mission together. By choosing to join and be an active member, it communicates that you are "all in."

• You commit to regularly attend and participate.

• You affirm that you have confessed faith in Jesus and have received Christian baptism.

• You agree with the belief/doctrines of the Christian & Missionary Alliance and the mission/vision of First Alliance Church.

• You choose to fully align with First Alliance Church under the authority and care of the Elders.

We are interdependent on each other in fellowship with Jesus. Joining affirms our commitment to one another. In addition, you receive care, spiritual counsel and protection, and the full privileges of being a member.

How do I join?

1. Attend a Sunday Dinner Chat and a Membership Essentials class.

2. Request membership* by completing an application with your faith story and signing it.

3. Participate in an Elder interview where you will share your story, answer a few questions, and be able to ask questions.

4. Be recognized publicly in a church worship service.

* There is also a membership option known as Associate Membership. This is for those who meet the membership requirements and want to be fully part of First Alliance, but who wish to maintain membership in another church because they have temporary or seasonal residence in this area.

Additional Info:

Transfer of Membership: We welcome those who wish to transfer membership from another church. A letter from your previous church should be received by the church prior to your elder interview. We still ask that you complete the membership process so that you fully understand what First Alliance and the C&MA are about, are aware of how to be involved at First Alliance, and know what is expected of you.

Baptism: We expect that all members have not only professed faith in Christ, but have also been baptized as a disciple of Jesus by immersion. If you have been baptized by immersion at any Bible-believing church, then you are good. If you haven't, then we ask that you be baptized by immersion prior to completing the membership process.