We believe the Scriptures are clear: God wants us to participate in a supportive and growing community of faith. That’s why he created the Church and called its members to reach out to others. (Matthew 16:18; 28:19-20) The kingdom of God is not a solitary island; rather it is a place where older and younger can learn from each other, where brothers and sisters in Christ can work together to accomplish God's Will, and where joys are spread and burdens are shared. At Highlands, we strive to serve God, love others, and connect both!
Being added Christ's church is something God does when a person obeys His instructions for salvation. Placing membership and becoming involved within a local congregation is something you do in order to identify yourself with the Body of Christ that meets in that place and to commit yourself to worshiping, serving, and fellowshipping with the Christians who meet there.
Why place membership?
- Membership says, "I belong here." God says believers belong together (Heb. 10:23–25). You sense that God wants you here with the people of Highlands at this time in your Christian life, and you want to make a public declaration that you are committed to God’s work through this church.
- Membership says, "We share the same ministry goals." God says believers are to be committed to one another for the sake of spiritual impact (Eph. 4:16). You believe Jesus has a work to do here and around the world, and you're willing to join with others to see that it gets done.
- Membership says, "I accept responsibility for a group of fellow believers in the family of God." That's God’s plan as well (Gal. 6:1–2, 10). You want to be part of a caring network of people, sharing one another's joys and sorrows, and helping one another grow through worship, Bible study, and fellowship.
- Membership says, "I am accountable to mature brothers and sisters in Christ for my walk with God." God warns against spiritual autonomy (Heb. 13:17; Matt. 18:15–20). You don't want to go it alone standing for Jesus Christ; you want to receive the guidance, equipping, and assistance necessary to remain on target.
- Membership says, "I accept responsibility for how things are done here." The Bible says that Christ loved the Church and gave himself up for her. Identifying with a church places us in a position of responsibility and identifies us with Christ's relationship with the church. Every member helps shape our congregation's direction and ministry goals. (Eph. 5.25; 1 Cor. 12:20–27).
- Membership allows our shepherds to care for you. God has given our elders the biblical responsibility of "overseeing the flock." Identifying with Highlands as a member allows our elders to include you in their prayers and plans for this congregation of the Lord's Church. You will be put in our church database so we can contact you with important congregation information and you will be asked to indicate in what ways you are interested in becoming involved in various congregational activities. (Acts 20.28; I Peter 5.1-4)
How to Place Membership
Whether you are still considering or have already decided to place membership at Highlands, we encourage you to make contact with one of the elders. You can see them at a regular church meeting time, call the church office, or use the online contact form. They will arrange for a meeting time when you can get to know them better and ask any questions you have about the congregation. We would love to have you join us in worship and service to God as a member of the Highlands congregation!