What is Church Membership?

At SABC we practice what is called “church membership.” The Bible teaches that being a part of a church is much more than simply attending a worship service — being a member of a church is a commitment to watch over and care for other members and be watched over and cared for by other members. In church membership we commit to be accountable for our fellow members and accountable to our fellow members. At SABC, each one of our members agrees to walk by and uphold our Church Covenant.

For more information about church membership see the resources below:

• Where Do We See Church Membership In The New Testament
• Twelve Reasons Why Membership Matters

What’s the next step?

If you’re interested in membership at SABC there is a four-step process.

– 1 –

Membership Class

This is currently in the process of being built but will outline the importance of church membership, and what it means to be a member at SABC.

Prior to the membership interview please fill out the membership application HERE. Please allow for roughly 30 minutes to complete this application. 

– 2 –

Membership Interview

In a 30-45 minute meeting, the prospective member meets with the pastor or a deacon to provide basic biographical information and recount God’s converting work in his or her life. After affirming the church statement of faith and covenant, the prospective member may move to the next step in membership: pastor/deacon recommendation.

– 3 – 

Pastor/Deacon Recommendation

During an deacons’ meeting, the interviewing person will review the applicant’s testimony with the other deacons. Upon receiving their collective approval, the candidate’s application proceeds to the next step: congregational affirmation.

– 4 – 

Congregational Affirmation

During the next scheduled members’ meeting, a pastor/deacon briefly describes the applicants who are being recommended for membership. A vote is taken and, with a majority secured, candidates are admitted into membership (candidates who have not yet been baptized as a believer will be admitted to membership upon their baptism into the church).