What does it mean to become a Member of a Baptist Church ?
Many people see Ryde Baptist Church as their church. Some simply worship with us and that is great! Others have become Members. Membership is more than joining a Gym or a Club, it’s all about.......
Believing -we share the same essential views from the Bible about God: the Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. Having become Christians, with God’s help, together we follow the teaching and example of Jesus whilst respecting those following other Faiths.
Belonging- just like the first Christians, we are all part of God’s family, “coals burn brightest when they are in the fire together!” We also belong to the Baptist Union of Great Britain and to Churches Together in Great Britain.
Baptism -Baptist Churches as the name suggests, see it is important for believers to be baptised as was Jesus see Matthew Ch3:12-17, Ch 28:19. Some churches require this as a condition of membership, others just encourage it.
Growing- as members of the church, we find that regular worship, prayer & reading the bible: on our own, in small groups and as a congregation, helps us to grow & apply our faith to modern life.
Sharing together - Some of our important privileges and responsibilities of members include: discovering and using our God given gifts to serve within the church & beyond, financially contributing towards our self supporting church, looking prayerfully for God’s solutions as we meet as members to discuss issues at our bi monthly Members Meeting. These are not shareholders, management or union meetings but are a prayerful gathering where Minister and Deacons as Managing Trustees* together with the members prayerfully review our projects and plan for the future .
Caring- the bible describes believers as a body 1Corinthians 12:12 so it is important that we care for one another as well as for the wider community. We offer a listening ear, prayerful, practical & pastoral support, referring people on to other care agencies where appropriate. We also try to stand up for the vulnerable in our community.
Being & Doing- believers are called to be good role models of Jesus in our thoughts, words and actions “you(all) are the light of the world – doing good works” Matthew 5:14-16.
Church Membership, a great way for us all to honour God, express our faith, and benefit our communities!!!
* Managing Trustees- a legal title & role required by the Charity Commissioners
