Membership
Why become a member?
We believe there are at least three reasons for formal church membership at Inner Chamber. First, we believe the concept of church membership is biblical. While the term “church member” is never used in the Bible, the concept is implicit throughout the New Testament. Christians clearly identified themselves with a specific local church and were challenged to become devoted participants.
Second, formal membership is valuable to the leaders of the church as they seek to fulfill their God-given task of caring for the people of Inner Chamber.
By its very nature and university context, Hillside attracts seekers, observers, and guests. We hope that will always be the case. But at some point it is important to identify those who comprise the Inner Chamber “family”―the core that can be counted on to build and sustain the ministries of the church. Specifically, these are the folks who provide leadership as elders, deacons, teachers, and leaders of ministries. Additionally, members give guidance through their feedback on matters requiring the overall approval of the church. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, experience shows that membership benefits the individual. In a culture where commitment is no longer highly valued, recognizable membership is an important step that moves a person from good intentions to committed participation―to publicly declare a commitment to Christ and to a community of faith. In this sense, membership can be a significant defining moment in a person’s journey to become a passionately devoted follower of Jesus Christ.
How to Become a Member
You may request church membership by doing any one of the following:
- Fill out an Inner Chamber Information Card with your name, address, and phone number and check the box that reads: I want to join this church.
- Come to the front of the church during the ministry time and communicate your desire to become a church member to the pastor or a member of the ministry team.
- Once you’ve made your request for church membership, a member of the ministry team will contact you to discuss your request. If you meet the qualifications for membership listed below, you will be accepted into membership and encouraged to attend a Newcomers Class.
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Who may become a member?
Any person who has expressed a personal faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, has been baptized as a believer, and is committed to actively following Jesus Christ in discipleship may request church membership. If you are not already a follower of Christ and would like to know how to become one, simply indicate your desire to any member of the ministry team. There is absolutely nothing any of the ministers consider more important than helping someone establish a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.