Church membership is not a commandment in the Bible. Instead it is a way in which Christians evidence a clear and eager commitment to what the Church of Jesus Christ ought to be.
Membership evidences the earnestness among believers to be shepherded by the elders whom God has appointed over them. In matters that are not clearly explained in the Scriptures, it is our acknowledged elders who are approached for instruction and guidance (Heb 13:17-18). From the elders’ perspective, it is those who are uniquely under their care who receive their most intense focus and care (1 Pet 5:2).
Membership helps those with an immature or half-hearted view of Church and Christian Living to overcome any resistance with Biblical excellence. In a world filled with organisations defined by loyalty cards, registrations, memberships, and subscriptions, believers are quick to set the Church apart as supremely more important and relevant for earthly living (Acts 20:28). As we grow in the faith, we realise that it is our one-another loyalties that become our greatest evidences of obedience and our clearest forms of evangelism (John 13:35). It is truly the resolution to gather with the saints that results in being assured of the faith, faithful to our convictions, and committed to holy living and Christian service (Heb 10:19-27).
Membership commitment is an example of voluntary covenants common among the faithful. Because the convictions of true faith are so deep-rooted, there is a public eagerness to be accountable to all to worship the Lord truly and to live holy (see Neh 9:38–10:39 for an example of such a voluntary covenant).
We are therefore obliged to commit ourselves fully to the church, with recognised elders and “one anothers”, intent on excelling in our worship of God, our pursuit of holiness, our love for one another, and our witness to the world.