Why is it so important to become a church member?

The New Testament teaches and illustrates by the early church's example, that God intended His people to join together in local, definable groups. These local bodies were made up of people who had confessed Jesus as Lord and who were willing to serve Him by identifying and committing themselves to a particular local body. These groups of dedicated people became powerful and effective witnesses for Jesus Christ. In order for this to be accomplished, we recognize the need for commitment and accountability that only formal membership brings.

Although people are free to minister at Living Stones Fellowship without membership, several key ministry positions require this level of commitment. They are as follows: Salaried Personnel, Overseers, Ministry Team Leaders and any other leadership positions as determined by the Overseers.

Membership Criteria

Membership at Living Stones Fellowship will be open to anyone who:

• Is personally trusting in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
• Has been baptized according to the New Testament pattern of baptism by immersion as a personal witness of their faith in Christ.
• Is willing to commit themselves to serve Jesus Christ through the ministry and vision of Living Stones Fellowship.

Membership Covenant

Each member of Living Stones Fellowship is asked to commit their:

A. Time

This involves both time to personal growth through discipleship in Home Groups with other believers, and time to fellowship regularly, making Sunday morning worship a priority (Hebrews 10:24-25; Matthew 6:33).

B. Talents

The New Testament clearly teaches that the Holy Spirit has uniquely gifted every believer for the purpose of serving God and each other. Each person's gift is needed. Therefore, each member will seek to identify, develop and exercise his/her spiritual gifts.

C. Treasures

The New Testament says much about the proper use of money. It reminds us that we are bought by the blood of Christ and that all we have belongs to Him. The scriptures teach that each believer should freely give to support the work of Christ. Each member is encouraged to support this local body according to how God has blessed him or her financially, for this brings honor to Christ (Matthew 6:19; 2 Corinthians 8:9-11).

D. Teaching

Living Stones Fellowship is committed to the doctrines set out in its "What We Believe" statement. It seeks to find leaders and ministerial staff who will uphold and teach these doctrines plainly. Members are encouraged to learn and hold to these truths. If one disagrees on key points due to outside teaching or reading, they are asked to take their issues to the Overseers for discussion and agree to neither publicly or privately seek to influence others toward their views.

E. Tongue

Scripture warns us of the destructive ability of the tongue. It is essential for each member to commit the use of their tongue to the building up of each other and to the fostering of peace and unity (James 3:3-11; 2 Thessalonians 3:3-12).

How do I join?

Attend one of our New Members Classes. We offer New Members Classes on the third Sunday of every month at 9:30 am (prior to 10:45 am service). This one-hour class will help you learn more about Living Stones Fellowship: our purpose, mission, vision, core values, beliefs and membership criteria and covenant. After attending one of these classes you will have the opportunity to make your membership official.