Membership

At Second Baptist Church we desire to reflect a biblical model of the church as it was originally intended by God. The clearest description of the early church is found in the New Testament book of Acts.

There are two steps each person takes as he or she becomes part of “a member of” a local church in the New Testament. There is also a third, practical, step we ask of each person.

1st Step:

You should have received Christ and trusted Him as your personal Savior. There are many words used to describe this “change” in a person. In the New Testament words such as “saved, born again, a new creation and redeemed” are but a few.

If you have not yet made this decision to turn from your sin and turn in faith to Jesus you can learn more about it at www.sbchuntsville.org, request more information on becoming a follower of Christ or visit Billy Graham’s website at www.billygraham.org/SH_StepsToPeace.asp.

2nd Step:

The next step you need to take, if you have not, is to be baptized. As you read through the New Testament you will discover that every baptism occurs after salvation and is always an adult or older child who is aware of the decision they are making.

In addition, baptism is by immersion. The word “baptize” literally means “to dip under.” Therefore, to be a member, a person must have received Christ as their Lord and Savior and be baptized by immersion. If you have questions about baptism the New Member Class is a great place to start or you can call one of our staff members.

3rd Step:

At SBC we add a third step to church membership for practical reasons based on Biblical principles that are important for a healthy, growing church. In Colossians 3:12-15 So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Unity is imperative in a church and a practical way to promote unity in the church is to have a new member class that is a requirement for each person. The class provides an opportunity to speak about the importance for everyone to “put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other…”

The practical steps to join:

• You and/or your family may come forward during the time immediately following the message on a Sunday morning. This is the time the pastor is standing down front to speak with anyone who wishes. You may indicate your desire to join during this time.
• Make an appointment to speak with any staff member during the week to let them know you would like to join. They’ll be sure to explain everything and answer any questions you have.
• You may also join at the completion of any new member class.

Thanks and God Bless!

Gary Garrison
Pastor, Second Baptist Church