Next Steps
BELIEVE - BELONG - BECOME - BUILDStep1
BELIEVE
Experience of salvation
Essentials of doctrine
Expression of change – baptism
Desired outcome – assurance of a saving relationship with Christ, understanding of our doctrinal beliefs, baptism.
You are called to belong. Even in the perfect, sinless environment of Eden, God said, “It is not good for man to be alone.” We were created for community, fashioned for fellowship, and formed for a family, and none of us can fulfill God’s purposes by ourselves.
Step2
BELONG
Explanation of church membership and leadership structure
Exhortation toward church membership.
Plugged in to a place of service within the church.
Desired outcome – understanding of our church structure, and a commitment to church membership. Utilization of one’s gifts within the Body.
Step3
BECOME
Personality and spiritual gifts assessments
Explanation of our doctrine: entire sanctification, growth in holiness and transformation.
Desired outcome – A proper Biblical understanding of one’s self and who they are in Christ. Understanding and personal experience of entire sanctification. Pursuit of a Godly and holy life.
As believers we possess the Holy Spirit within, and it is His presence that makes us holy. Saints aren’t some special kind of Christian, but all Christians are saints! We are all called to be what He’s set us apart to be. The New Testament imperative is “become who you are!” We become a holy person by God’s saving work, by the Spirit’s sanctifying work in Christ, and by the Word’s effects.
Being a “member” of the church is meant to give members a sense of belonging, to edify, offer discipleship, give accountability, allow the use of their spiritual gifts, and provide fellowship. Leadership, on the other hand, is another level of membership that requires additional responsibility but also provides additional opportunities.
Step4
BUILD
Discussion of responsibility and requirements for leadership.
The purposes of lay leadership are to participate in church governance through attending, speaking to the issue, and voting at business meetings, to model holy living for the congregation, to represent the church as conference delegates, and to provide leaders to fill positions of spiritual influence.
Desired outcome – lay or ministerial leadership within our church.