Day 326

Of the Church.

Chapter 26, Paragraph 6.

“The members of these churches are saints by calling, visibly manifesting and evidencing (in and by their profession and walking) their obedience unto that call of Christ; and do willingly consent to walk together, according to the appointment of Christ; giving up themselves to the Lord, and one to another, by the will of God, in professed subjection to the ordinances of the Gospel.”

Scripture Lookup

Romans 1:7

1 Corinthians 1:2

Acts 2:41,42, 5:13,14

2 Corinthians 9:13

Reflection

We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing -Adrianus Valerius (italics added).

Joining a church is a public demonstration that you take the commands of Christ seriously. It demonstrates that you are one of His, called out of the world to follow Him. It demonstrates that you value the time with your brothers and sisters in Christ, fellow saints who have also been called by Him as you were. It demonstrates that you are committed to walking with your church because of your love for Christ.

Like other institutions created by God, being part of a church calls us to direct our attention towards others. Becoming a member of a church should be beneficial to you, but it is not the main reason to join. Instead, we are purposely agreeing to be a part of other believers’ lives. We will be held accountable by them, and we will encourage and rebuke them in turn.

If you love Me, you will keep my commandments. -John 14:15

It is humbling to become a member of a church. Dealing with other people, even fellow saints, tests our patience and sometimes even our faith. As one of Christ’s, we should be ever mindful of His work in our lives. In gratitude we serve one another in the local church. And as a result, we are blessed.

Questions to Consider

• What reasons do people give for not joining a church? Are they valid?