Reasons Not to Join a Church by Ryan Whitley

Last weekend we added several new members to CrossPoint.  Before closing the class I provided several reasons why they should NOT join CrossPoint.  This is something I have done for sometime now.

My list of reasons always produces some strange or quirky looks from potential news members.  This month was no different.

Are there reasons why one should not join a church?  Of course, there are reasons why you should not join a church.

Here are a few:

If you are joining the church for the pastor to conduct your funeral, do not join the church. 

Most pastors will conduct your funeral even if you are not a member.

If you are joining the church for the pastor to perform your wedding ceremony, do not join the church.

Most pastors will conduct your wedding if you both confess Jesus as Lord of your life.

If you are joining the church so you can say you are a member of a church, do not join the church.

            Church membership means more than having your name on a roll.

If you are joining the church because you like the programs and personalities leading the church, do not join the church.

            Programs and personalities are always changing.

If you are joining the church because you are angry with your previous pastor or church, do not join the church.

Return to the church you are leaving in order to seek reconciliation with the pastor and the people before joining another church.

If you are joining a church because you are burned out and want to find a place to hide, do not join the church.

If you are burned out, stay where you are and find a way to graciously refresh yourself.

If you are joining a church because you like the building, do not join the church.

            The church is not where you go; it is what you do.

If you are joining a church because you want the pastor and staff to serve you, do not join the church.

            The church does not exist to serve you; you exist to serve the church.

If you are joining a church to glorify God by serving the church, then by all means, join the church.

The church is not a social club.  Neither is it a place for you to have your needs met.  It is the body of Christ.  And when you join a local church you should sign the membership covenant with the expectation of fulfilling that covenant each day you are a member.