“For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.” - Romans 12: 4-5
A healthy body requires that each member do its part well. A healthy church requires the same. While guests are always welcome to The House, it is the members that form the real core of our church.
The global church has a blemished track record of allowing its members to become observers and consumers, that want the benefits of being part of a church family without the responsibility that comes with it. Members have both! We believe that there should be no member in a church who only receives ministry; in fact every member should seek to help mature the church through ministering to it and through it with the unique abilities and gifts that God has given them. The House is seeking to create a Biblical model of church whereby it’s members are joyously committed to each other and well-equipped to do the works of service that God has prepared in advance for each of us to do (Ephesians 2:10; 4:11-16).
Being a member is not a status symbol or about being in a social club, it’s about committing to becoming authentic followers of Christ and His mission. It’s about transitioning from being an observer in The House to being part of the church family. A member who acknowledges they are a part of the body of Christ and committed to the community of The House as their local church is called to a higher degree of responsibility. Equally, the church leadership is committed to assist their members first and foremost, in providing counsel, service, and aid (Gal. 6:10). There are also benefits to members that include greater serving and leadership opportunities, an open book policy regarding church financial information, and participation in church decisions.
At The House we want to hold our members in high regard seeing them transformed by God’s love and grace into a Spirit empowered community that lives to follow Jesus: Loving God, each other, and our world. In fact, we believe that it will be through the strength of our members that we will be able to most effectively mature as a church, and reach our city with the good news of Gods glorious grace found in Jesus.
To become a member of The House, we ask that you complete the Gospel Class. This is the first step in the membership process and it gives you an opportunity to learn more about us and what we believe, and for us to learn more about you. The Gospel Class is an overview of Biblical doctrine and how we live in light of these doctrines. Its content includes an overview of the gospel and the church, and explains how this practically spins out into the lives of our community. For those who have completed the Gospel Class and desire to pursue church membership, you will be asked to fill out the member paperwork and to have a brief meeting with one of the Elders.
Once the member process has been completed, you will be informed regarding members’ meetings and/or member emails and announcements.