Being a Part of the Church Family
MembershipWe strongly encourage anyone who views TBC as their long-term spiritual home to become a member of the church. Membership is a two-way commitment. On the part of the individual it is a commitment to be an active part of the body of Christ here at TBC. On the part of the church family it is a commitment to lovingly support each member, encouraging them to become all that Christ intends them to be. "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds..." (Hebrews 10:24) One of the privileges and responsibilities of membership is playing a part in the decision making of the church. Members' meetings are times when we come together to consider major questions relating to the life and direction of the church, and we expect God to speak to us as we pray and discuss matters together. Small GroupsThe New Testament picture of church life is intrinsically relational. Whilst Sunday worship is very important, church services alone are not able to provide the kind of community life that is so vital to our growth as Christians. At TBC we encourage everyone who worships with us to belong to one of our Growth Groups. These smaller communities of believers are central to the spiritual life and pastoral care of the church. Gifts and GivingBeing active in the life of the church involves some personal cost. Members of the church are expected, wherever possible, to contribute of their time, their energy and their money to the ongoing work of the church. We also encourage every member to use whatever natural and spiritual gifts God has given them in His service. For some this will be expressed in their workplace, or through other avenues of Christian service, but for many it will mean using their gifts within the church. Becoming a Member of TBCIf you are interested in becoming a member of the church, please come and have a chat with one of the Ministers. They will usually arrange for two of the leaders of the church to meet with you to find out a little about your Christian faith and to discuss the vision and values of TBC with you. Your application will then be taken to the Elders for approval and you will be formally welcomed as a member at a communion service. |
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