Transfer of Membership According to the Scriptures
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d. The church is the body over which Christ is the head.
Ephesians 1:22-23 – “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is the body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all.”
Colossians 1:18, 24 – “And He is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firsborn of the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church:”
Note that the church is important because of its relationship to God. The church was purposed by God, built by Jesus, and purchased by the blood of Jesus.
We do not claim that the church is important because of our choice or who the members are. The church is important because God determined to make it important and because of the ties the church has to God. It follows that failure to appreciate the church is not simply a rejection of the people in the church; it is a rejection of God and His will.
Emphasis on the church being local
The purpose of this study is to emphasize the need for every Christian to form a bond with a specific local church and become actively involved in its work. Christians sometimes fail to see the need to be active in a specific local church.
Many passages refer to local churches (congregations) in particular localities (Acts 8:1; 13:1; Romans 16:1; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 2 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:1; Colossians 4:16; etc.).
Acts 8:1 – “And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the CHURCH WHICH WAS AT JERUSALEM; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of
Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.”
Acts 13:1 – “Now there were IN THE CHURCH THAT WAS AT ANTIOCH certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.”
Romans 16:1 – “I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant OF THE CHURCH WHICH IS AT CENCHREA:”
1 Corinthians 1:2 – “unto the CHURCH OF GOD WHICH IS AT CORINTH, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:”
2 Corinthians 1:1 – “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto THE CHURCH OF GOD WHICH IS AT CORINTH, with all the saints which are in all Achaia:”
1 Thessalonians 1:1 – “Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto THE CHURCH OF THE THESSALONIANS which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
There are many more verses that indicates the locality of the local church. Yes, the word “local to consider is: How important is membership in a local church? Can we just be church” was not literally put there but all indication points to the church being local. The question saved and not be a member of a local church? Can one just float or hop from church to church while away for a significant time from his local church? Can you be a faithful Christian without doing your ministry in a local church on a regular basis?
The application to Christians
The Bible teaches that service to God requires "team" activity as well as individual activity. We do have individual responsibilities, yet each Christian must also identify himself as part of a faithful local church and then actively involve himself in the work of that church. This is sometimes called "placing membership,” (transferring membership) but we do not intend here to emphasize any specific terminology. Nor do we insist on any particular formal method for doing this (such as walking to the front during the invitation song). Rather, our intent is simply to show that God does intend for Christians to express intent to be part of a specific local church and then work actively with that group. No Christian can really succeed a "floating member" who perpetually visits local churches but refuses to identify himself with any particular local church in a specific particular locality.
Consider the following evidence that this concept is taught in the scriptures.
Each Christian Should Be Part of a Faithful Local Church. Each local church in the New Testament consistedof individual disciples who were identified or recognized as part of congregation.
Note the following:
A. Disciples in an area were addressed interchangeably with the local church
When speaking about a basketball team, one might interchangeably use terms that refer to the group or that refer to the players. One might say the Lakers won a game because "the team played well," or one might say, "the players played well." These expressions can be used interchangeably because the players are all members of the team. Likewise, when inspired writers addressed Christians in an area, they sometimes addressed them as the church, but other times they addressed them as the members of the church. These terms are used interchangeably because all disciples were members of a local church.
1 Corinthians 1:2,10 – “Unto the CHURCH OF GOD which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, Called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: ... Now I beseech you, BRETHREN, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” When Paul wrote to "the church of God which is at Corinth," he was addressing "those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints" (v2). In v10 he addressed them as "brethren." So, to address the local church was to address the saints or brethren in that locality.
1 Thessalonians 1:1,4 (2 Thessalonians 1:1,3) – “Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto THE CHURCH OF THE THESSALONIANS which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. ... Knowing, BRETHREN BELOVED, your election of God.” Paul wrote to "the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thessalonians 1:1). But in v4 he addressed them as " brethren beloved," elect of God. He does the same thing in 2 Thessalonians 1:1,3. So to address the local church is to address the saints in the area and vice-versa, because it is understood that all faithful disciples should be identified or recognized as part of the local church. There was no such thing as faithful Christians who were in a particular locality that are not members of a local church.
Philippians 1:1; 4:15 – “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: ... Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.”
Paul addressed "all the saints in Christ Jesus which are in Philippi with the bishops and deacons"(1:1). But in 4:15 he said, "no church communicated with me ... but ye only." Obviously, he is here referring to them as a church. This is the reverse of the above cases. He first addresses them as saints, but later addresses them as a church. So the saints in Philippi constituted the church in Philippi, again because it is understood that every faithful Christian should be a member of a local church.
Further, note that this is true of "all the saints ... who are in Philippi" (1:1). So "all" saints in a locality should be part of a local church.
Colossians 4:15,16 – “Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house. And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea.”
Paul greeted the "brethren" at Laodicea, then said the letter should be read to "the church of the Laodiceans." Surely these are interchangeable expressions for the same group. The "brethren" at Laodicea constituted the "church" at Laodicea, because all "brethren" should be members of a local church.
B. Specific Disciples were members of local churches
Acts 13:1 – “Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.”
Paul, Barnabas, and other teachers were "in the church that was at Antioch." They were not here identified as part of a church elsewhere (Jerusalem, Samaria, etc.). So, individual disciples should be recognized or considered to be part of a specific local church.
3 John 1:10 – “Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, parting against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.”
Diotrophes sinned in that he not only refused to receive those who ought to have been received, but also put others "out of the church." If he put them out of the church, then it necessarily follows that previously they were recognized as being in the church.
Revelation 1:4,11; 2:10,23; etc.
Revelation is addressed to "the seven churches ... in Asia" (1:4,11). In chap. 2 & 3 Jesus addressed each of the churches individually, showing that the local churches were distinct from one another. But note that in addressing each church, He was also address- ing the members:
2:8 “And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write...” addresses the church at Smyrna, but v10 said the “devil shall cast some of you into prison...” 2:18 “And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write..” was written to the church at Thyatira, but in v23 the Lord said, "I will give unto every one of you according to your works."
3:1 “And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write ... “ addresses the church at Sardis, but v4 says, "You have a few names even in Sardis who ... shall walk with me in white..." When He addressed the "some of you" in Smyrna, was He speaking then of Christians in Thyatira? When he addressed those in Thyatira, was He speaking then of Christians in Sardis? Certain individuals were considered to make up each local church, and other Christians were considered to make up other local churches. The "some of you" at Smyrna described different disciples from the "each one of you" at Thyatira. But each Christian was identified or recognized as being part of some specific local church.
Compare this to the connection between elders and local churches.
A. Each elder is identified as working with a particular church.
Acts 14:23 – “And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.”
They appointed elders "in every church." So, the elders of each church were "in" that church.
Acts 20:17 – “And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.” Paul sent to Ephesus and called for the elders "of the church."
The elders were part of the church and their work pertained to that local church (cf. v28).
B. Each elder is identified as belonging to a particular local church having a responsibility.
Each elder is identified as belonging to a particular local church and having a responsibility to the work of that specific church. This is expressed by saying they are "in" or "of" that church.
Acts 16:4 – “And as they went through the cities, they delivered them to decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders WHICH WERE AT Jerusalem.”
James 5:14 – “Is any sick among you? Let him call for the ELDERS OF THE CHURCH; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:”
1 Peter 5:1-3 – “The ELDERS WHICH ARE AMONG YOU I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: feed the flock of God which IS AMONG YOU, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.”
C. Likewise, each member should be identified with a particular local church.
Acts 13:1 – “Now there were IN THE CHURCH THAT WAS AT ANTIOCH certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.”
The teachers listed here were "in the church" at Antioch, just as elders were "in" the church which they served. To be "in" a local church implies being identified as part of it and being actively involved in its work.
Philippians 1:1 – “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:”
Note that Paul addressed the bishops, deacons, and all the saints in Philippi. But the bishops and deacons are identified as working with a particular local church, so listing the saints along with them would indicate that "all the saints" should likewise be identified as working with a particular local church.
Philippians 3:17; 4:9 – “Brethren, be followers of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample ... Those things, which ye have both learned, and reveived, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”
We should imitate the examples of these brethren and churches. They are a pattern for us. If each individual Christian was expected to be identified as part of a local church in the first century, why would it not be the same today? Where is the Bible authority for a Christian to refuse on an ongoing basis to be identified as part of a local church? How can any Christian properly live indefinitely in an area where there is a local church while making no serious attempt to be recognized as part of that church? faithful Christians must identify themselves as part of a local church.
D. When disciples moved to a new locality, they took steps to be recognized as part of a local church there.
The case of Saul:
Acts 9:17-20 – “And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightiest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when he had received meat, he was strength- ened, Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straight- way he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.”
Saul was converted after seeing Jesus on the road to Damascus. He spent some time with the "disciples at Damascus" (the local church). He preached Jesus, but fled when Jews threatened his life (9:23-25).
Acts 9:26-29 – “And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barna- bas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damas- cus in the name of Jesus. And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. And he spake boldly in the name of our Lord Jesus, and disputed against the
Grecians: but they went about to slay him.”
When Saul then came to Jerusalem, he sought to "join himself to the disciples" there. This does not mean that he sought to become a Christian - he had already done that. Rather, he wanted to become part of the local church in Jerusalem. The disciples were afraid of him because, due to his past history, they feared that he was not really a disciple. Barna- bas explained about Saul's conversion in Damascus. After that he was "with them" coming in and going out, working among them preaching and teaching God's word. When a threat was again made against his life, he left town.
Acts 11:25,26 – “Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Chris- tians first in Antioch.”
Acts 13:1-3 – “Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.”
After Barnabas was sent to Antioch, he found Saul and together they worked with the church in Antioch teaching many people. Along with other teachers, they were said to be "in the church that was at Antioch."
Observations and conclusions
2 Corinthians 3:1 – “Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?”
Paul said he did not need letters of commendation to or from the church in Corinth, because he was already known there. Nevertheless, he stated that some people do need letters of commendation. He did not, but "some others" do need them. When people move to a new area and are unknown to the church, then the church has every right to communicate to know if a member is "commendable."
What purpose would such a letter serve unless it is understood that members should become part of the church where they move? If they do not intend to become part of the church, they would not need a letter anyway.
Phebe
Romans 16:1-2 – “I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.”
Note that the church that the person is transferring from is the one writing a letter to the church the member is transferring to and not the other way around. Paul was the one writing to the church at rome to receive Phebe.
Conclusions
So the New Testament pattern is that Christians should be identified or become part of a faithful local congregation in the area where they live or stay a significant amount of time. When they move to a new area, they should seek out a faithful congregation in that area and become recognized as part of it.
There may be some variation in the method by which a Christian makes known this intent. Apollos had a letter sent from the church he previously worked with. Saul received a personal commendation. So, the particular method is not binding. Nevertheless, each individual should make known in some manner that he does want to be considered part of the local church.
Remember, we are taught to imitate such examples (Phil. 3:17; 4:9). What Bible passage would authorize a person to move to an area and then make no effort to become part of a local church? Where is the Bible authority for a Christian to move to an area where there is a faithful church, yet they continue to claim membership of the church "back home," even though they are too far from the church back home to attend and be part of its work?
Under certain conditions, a ball player may move from one team to another or a student may transfer from one college to another. But a player must affiliate with a team and a student must enroll in a college. Likewise, a faithful Christian may move from one local church to another but he must commit himself to be part of a faithful local church.
This study will attempt to answer and refute from the Word of God some teachings that
are being taught in some local churches regarding the transfer of membership.
- Transfer of membership is not taught in the Bible.
- Once baptized in a local church then one is forever a member of that local church where eve thy go later on, they must send the tithes to that local church. - They can transfer membership for serving God purposes only but the tithes must be sent to their former local church.
- Some local churches are acting as caretakers of other local churches wherein their members will attend the caretaker local church, give their offerings but their tithes will be sent to their local churches back home or delivered by the pastor of the caretaker church. At other times, collected by the pastor of their local churches. Remember, Jesus built the church, He owns the church and His teaching, the Word of God, is the sole authority for faith and practice of the local Baptist churches. The strange doctrine invented by pastors intending to have the tithes of the members that are away and in the vicinity of other local churches that Jesus built is not a Bible teaching. What the Bible teaches is that Christians are to be identified with a specific local church and seek to be recognized as part of another local church should they move. Christians are to attend the meetings of a congregation, participate in its work, submit to its leader- ship and participate in discipline.
Importance of the local church.
Many principles teach the importance of the local church but people often fail to appreciate the importance of the church. Let us consider these:
a. The church was purposed by God from eternity.
Ephesians 3:10-11 says, “To intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
b. The church was built by Jesus.
Matthew 16:18 – “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
c. The church was purchased by Jesus’ blood.
Acts 20:28 – “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchasedwith his own blood.”
Ephesians 5:23-25 – “ For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;”
- Transfer of membership is not taught in the Bible.
- Once baptized in a local church then one is forever a member of that local church where eve thy go later on, they must send the tithes to that local church. - They can transfer membership for serving God purposes only but the tithes must be sent to their former local church.
- Some local churches are acting as caretakers of other local churches wherein their members will attend the caretaker local church, give their offerings but their tithes will be sent to their local churches back home or delivered by the pastor of the caretaker church. At other times, collected by the pastor of their local churches. Remember, Jesus built the church, He owns the church and His teaching, the Word of God, is the sole authority for faith and practice of the local Baptist churches. The strange doctrine invented by pastors intending to have the tithes of the members that are away and in the vicinity of other local churches that Jesus built is not a Bible teaching. What the Bible teaches is that Christians are to be identified with a specific local church and seek to be recognized as part of another local church should they move. Christians are to attend the meetings of a congregation, participate in its work, submit to its leader- ship and participate in discipline.
Importance of the local church.
Many principles teach the importance of the local church but people often fail to appreciate the importance of the church. Let us consider these:
a. The church was purposed by God from eternity.
Ephesians 3:10-11 says, “To intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
b. The church was built by Jesus.
Matthew 16:18 – “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
c. The church was purchased by Jesus’ blood.
Acts 20:28 – “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchasedwith his own blood.”
Ephesians 5:23-25 – “ For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;”
d. The church is the body over which Christ is the head.
Ephesians 1:22-23 – “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is the body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all.”
Colossians 1:18, 24 – “And He is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firsborn of the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church:”
Note that the church is important because of its relationship to God. The church was purposed by God, built by Jesus, and purchased by the blood of Jesus.
We do not claim that the church is important because of our choice or who the members are. The church is important because God determined to make it important and because of the ties the church has to God. It follows that failure to appreciate the church is not simply a rejection of the people in the church; it is a rejection of God and His will.
Emphasis on the church being local
The purpose of this study is to emphasize the need for every Christian to form a bond with a specific local church and become actively involved in its work. Christians sometimes fail to see the need to be active in a specific local church.
Many passages refer to local churches (congregations) in particular localities (Acts 8:1; 13:1; Romans 16:1; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 2 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:1; Colossians 4:16; etc.).
Acts 8:1 – “And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the CHURCH WHICH WAS AT JERUSALEM; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of
Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.”
Acts 13:1 – “Now there were IN THE CHURCH THAT WAS AT ANTIOCH certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.”
Romans 16:1 – “I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant OF THE CHURCH WHICH IS AT CENCHREA:”
1 Corinthians 1:2 – “unto the CHURCH OF GOD WHICH IS AT CORINTH, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:”
2 Corinthians 1:1 – “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto THE CHURCH OF GOD WHICH IS AT CORINTH, with all the saints which are in all Achaia:”
1 Thessalonians 1:1 – “Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto THE CHURCH OF THE THESSALONIANS which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
There are many more verses that indicates the locality of the local church. Yes, the word “local to consider is: How important is membership in a local church? Can we just be church” was not literally put there but all indication points to the church being local. The question saved and not be a member of a local church? Can one just float or hop from church to church while away for a significant time from his local church? Can you be a faithful Christian without doing your ministry in a local church on a regular basis?
The application to Christians
The Bible teaches that service to God requires "team" activity as well as individual activity. We do have individual responsibilities, yet each Christian must also identify himself as part of a faithful local church and then actively involve himself in the work of that church. This is sometimes called "placing membership,” (transferring membership) but we do not intend here to emphasize any specific terminology. Nor do we insist on any particular formal method for doing this (such as walking to the front during the invitation song). Rather, our intent is simply to show that God does intend for Christians to express intent to be part of a specific local church and then work actively with that group. No Christian can really succeed a "floating member" who perpetually visits local churches but refuses to identify himself with any particular local church in a specific particular locality.
Consider the following evidence that this concept is taught in the scriptures.
Each Christian Should Be Part of a Faithful Local Church. Each local church in the New Testament consistedof individual disciples who were identified or recognized as part of congregation.
Note the following:
A. Disciples in an area were addressed interchangeably with the local church
When speaking about a basketball team, one might interchangeably use terms that refer to the group or that refer to the players. One might say the Lakers won a game because "the team played well," or one might say, "the players played well." These expressions can be used interchangeably because the players are all members of the team. Likewise, when inspired writers addressed Christians in an area, they sometimes addressed them as the church, but other times they addressed them as the members of the church. These terms are used interchangeably because all disciples were members of a local church.
1 Corinthians 1:2,10 – “Unto the CHURCH OF GOD which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, Called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: ... Now I beseech you, BRETHREN, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” When Paul wrote to "the church of God which is at Corinth," he was addressing "those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints" (v2). In v10 he addressed them as "brethren." So, to address the local church was to address the saints or brethren in that locality.
1 Thessalonians 1:1,4 (2 Thessalonians 1:1,3) – “Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto THE CHURCH OF THE THESSALONIANS which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. ... Knowing, BRETHREN BELOVED, your election of God.” Paul wrote to "the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thessalonians 1:1). But in v4 he addressed them as " brethren beloved," elect of God. He does the same thing in 2 Thessalonians 1:1,3. So to address the local church is to address the saints in the area and vice-versa, because it is understood that all faithful disciples should be identified or recognized as part of the local church. There was no such thing as faithful Christians who were in a particular locality that are not members of a local church.
Philippians 1:1; 4:15 – “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: ... Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.”
Paul addressed "all the saints in Christ Jesus which are in Philippi with the bishops and deacons"(1:1). But in 4:15 he said, "no church communicated with me ... but ye only." Obviously, he is here referring to them as a church. This is the reverse of the above cases. He first addresses them as saints, but later addresses them as a church. So the saints in Philippi constituted the church in Philippi, again because it is understood that every faithful Christian should be a member of a local church.
Further, note that this is true of "all the saints ... who are in Philippi" (1:1). So "all" saints in a locality should be part of a local church.
Colossians 4:15,16 – “Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house. And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea.”
Paul greeted the "brethren" at Laodicea, then said the letter should be read to "the church of the Laodiceans." Surely these are interchangeable expressions for the same group. The "brethren" at Laodicea constituted the "church" at Laodicea, because all "brethren" should be members of a local church.
B. Specific Disciples were members of local churches
Acts 13:1 – “Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.”
Paul, Barnabas, and other teachers were "in the church that was at Antioch." They were not here identified as part of a church elsewhere (Jerusalem, Samaria, etc.). So, individual disciples should be recognized or considered to be part of a specific local church.
3 John 1:10 – “Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, parting against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.”
Diotrophes sinned in that he not only refused to receive those who ought to have been received, but also put others "out of the church." If he put them out of the church, then it necessarily follows that previously they were recognized as being in the church.
Revelation 1:4,11; 2:10,23; etc.
Revelation is addressed to "the seven churches ... in Asia" (1:4,11). In chap. 2 & 3 Jesus addressed each of the churches individually, showing that the local churches were distinct from one another. But note that in addressing each church, He was also address- ing the members:
2:8 “And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write...” addresses the church at Smyrna, but v10 said the “devil shall cast some of you into prison...” 2:18 “And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write..” was written to the church at Thyatira, but in v23 the Lord said, "I will give unto every one of you according to your works."
3:1 “And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write ... “ addresses the church at Sardis, but v4 says, "You have a few names even in Sardis who ... shall walk with me in white..." When He addressed the "some of you" in Smyrna, was He speaking then of Christians in Thyatira? When he addressed those in Thyatira, was He speaking then of Christians in Sardis? Certain individuals were considered to make up each local church, and other Christians were considered to make up other local churches. The "some of you" at Smyrna described different disciples from the "each one of you" at Thyatira. But each Christian was identified or recognized as being part of some specific local church.
Compare this to the connection between elders and local churches.
A. Each elder is identified as working with a particular church.
Acts 14:23 – “And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.”
They appointed elders "in every church." So, the elders of each church were "in" that church.
Acts 20:17 – “And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.” Paul sent to Ephesus and called for the elders "of the church."
The elders were part of the church and their work pertained to that local church (cf. v28).
B. Each elder is identified as belonging to a particular local church having a responsibility.
Each elder is identified as belonging to a particular local church and having a responsibility to the work of that specific church. This is expressed by saying they are "in" or "of" that church.
Acts 16:4 – “And as they went through the cities, they delivered them to decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders WHICH WERE AT Jerusalem.”
James 5:14 – “Is any sick among you? Let him call for the ELDERS OF THE CHURCH; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:”
1 Peter 5:1-3 – “The ELDERS WHICH ARE AMONG YOU I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: feed the flock of God which IS AMONG YOU, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.”
C. Likewise, each member should be identified with a particular local church.
Acts 13:1 – “Now there were IN THE CHURCH THAT WAS AT ANTIOCH certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.”
The teachers listed here were "in the church" at Antioch, just as elders were "in" the church which they served. To be "in" a local church implies being identified as part of it and being actively involved in its work.
Philippians 1:1 – “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:”
Note that Paul addressed the bishops, deacons, and all the saints in Philippi. But the bishops and deacons are identified as working with a particular local church, so listing the saints along with them would indicate that "all the saints" should likewise be identified as working with a particular local church.
Philippians 3:17; 4:9 – “Brethren, be followers of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample ... Those things, which ye have both learned, and reveived, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”
We should imitate the examples of these brethren and churches. They are a pattern for us. If each individual Christian was expected to be identified as part of a local church in the first century, why would it not be the same today? Where is the Bible authority for a Christian to refuse on an ongoing basis to be identified as part of a local church? How can any Christian properly live indefinitely in an area where there is a local church while making no serious attempt to be recognized as part of that church? faithful Christians must identify themselves as part of a local church.
D. When disciples moved to a new locality, they took steps to be recognized as part of a local church there.
The case of Saul:
Acts 9:17-20 – “And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightiest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when he had received meat, he was strength- ened, Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straight- way he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.”
Saul was converted after seeing Jesus on the road to Damascus. He spent some time with the "disciples at Damascus" (the local church). He preached Jesus, but fled when Jews threatened his life (9:23-25).
Acts 9:26-29 – “And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barna- bas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damas- cus in the name of Jesus. And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. And he spake boldly in the name of our Lord Jesus, and disputed against the
Grecians: but they went about to slay him.”
When Saul then came to Jerusalem, he sought to "join himself to the disciples" there. This does not mean that he sought to become a Christian - he had already done that. Rather, he wanted to become part of the local church in Jerusalem. The disciples were afraid of him because, due to his past history, they feared that he was not really a disciple. Barna- bas explained about Saul's conversion in Damascus. After that he was "with them" coming in and going out, working among them preaching and teaching God's word. When a threat was again made against his life, he left town.
Acts 11:25,26 – “Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Chris- tians first in Antioch.”
Acts 13:1-3 – “Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.”
After Barnabas was sent to Antioch, he found Saul and together they worked with the church in Antioch teaching many people. Along with other teachers, they were said to be "in the church that was at Antioch."
Observations and conclusions
(1) First Saul was part of the church in Damascus (he was baptized there). When he moved
to Jerusalem, he sought to join the disciples there. Later he moved to Antioch and was "in
the church" there. Wherever he moved, he became identified as part of the local church in
that area.
(2) Saul took the initiative to be recognized as part of the local congregation. He did not "float" or perpetually visit from congregation to congregation. He "tried to join the disciples."
(3) "Join" means: "to glue or cement together ... to unite, to join firmly" (Vine; cf. Thayer). It implies a firm bond. When involving people, it generally implies purpose, intent, and commitment. [For examples, see Luke 15:15; Rom. 12:9; Acts 5:13; 17:34; 1 Cor. 6:17.
(4) Saul determined to attend and actively work with the church. Having been received, he was "with them coming in and going out" (attendance), and was involved in the teaching.
(5) At first the church did not receive him, because they had reason to doubt his conversion. So, the church had the right to investigate whether or not he was a faithful disciple and to refuse him if he was not. Barnabas testified on Saul's behalf, but he never denied the church's right to question Saul's conversion.
The church is not obligated to just automatically accept anybody who requests member- ship. But when the evidence indicates a person is a faithful disciple, and there is no proof of sin, then the church must receive the individual.
Other examples:
Barnabas
Acts 4:32 – “And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.”
Acts 4:34-37 – “Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were posses- sors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.”
The "multitude of them that believed" (the local church) shared with members in need. Barnabas was part of the work of the church in Jerusalem, selling a parcel of land and giving the money.
Acts 9:27 – “But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he hadseen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.”
(2) Saul took the initiative to be recognized as part of the local congregation. He did not "float" or perpetually visit from congregation to congregation. He "tried to join the disciples."
(3) "Join" means: "to glue or cement together ... to unite, to join firmly" (Vine; cf. Thayer). It implies a firm bond. When involving people, it generally implies purpose, intent, and commitment. [For examples, see Luke 15:15; Rom. 12:9; Acts 5:13; 17:34; 1 Cor. 6:17.
(4) Saul determined to attend and actively work with the church. Having been received, he was "with them coming in and going out" (attendance), and was involved in the teaching.
(5) At first the church did not receive him, because they had reason to doubt his conversion. So, the church had the right to investigate whether or not he was a faithful disciple and to refuse him if he was not. Barnabas testified on Saul's behalf, but he never denied the church's right to question Saul's conversion.
The church is not obligated to just automatically accept anybody who requests member- ship. But when the evidence indicates a person is a faithful disciple, and there is no proof of sin, then the church must receive the individual.
Other examples:
Barnabas
Acts 4:32 – “And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.”
Acts 4:34-37 – “Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were posses- sors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.”
The "multitude of them that believed" (the local church) shared with members in need. Barnabas was part of the work of the church in Jerusalem, selling a parcel of land and giving the money.
Acts 9:27 – “But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he hadseen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.”
When Saul wanted to be part of the disciples, Barnabas was still involved in the work of
the church in Jerusalem.
Acts 11:22-26 – “ Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.”
The church in Jerusalem sent Barnabas to the new church in Antioch. There he encouraged them and assembled with the church teaching many people.
Acts 13:1-3 – “Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.”
He and other teachers were "in the church that was in Antioch." So, while he was living in Jerusalem, Barnabas was actively committed and involved in the work of that local church. When he was sent to Antioch, he became part of that local church, actively involved in its work.
Apollos
Acts 18:27-28 – “And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote,ex- horting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace: For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.”
Apollos learned the truth in Ephesus. When he determined to go to Achaia, the church in Ephesus sent a letter exhorting the brethren there to receive him. He then worked diligently among them, helping those who believed and publicly teaching Jesus.
Note again that, when a Christian moved from one area to a new area, he found the church there and sought to be "received" by them. Then he was actively involved in the work.
Note also that churches have a right to communicate with one another about whether or not a person is worthy to be "received." This implies that the church would have the right to refuse to accept someone who was not faithful. What good was the letter, if a church is obligated to accept everyone who requests to be accepted?
Acts 11:22-26 – “ Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.”
The church in Jerusalem sent Barnabas to the new church in Antioch. There he encouraged them and assembled with the church teaching many people.
Acts 13:1-3 – “Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.”
He and other teachers were "in the church that was in Antioch." So, while he was living in Jerusalem, Barnabas was actively committed and involved in the work of that local church. When he was sent to Antioch, he became part of that local church, actively involved in its work.
Apollos
Acts 18:27-28 – “And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote,ex- horting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace: For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.”
Apollos learned the truth in Ephesus. When he determined to go to Achaia, the church in Ephesus sent a letter exhorting the brethren there to receive him. He then worked diligently among them, helping those who believed and publicly teaching Jesus.
Note again that, when a Christian moved from one area to a new area, he found the church there and sought to be "received" by them. Then he was actively involved in the work.
Note also that churches have a right to communicate with one another about whether or not a person is worthy to be "received." This implies that the church would have the right to refuse to accept someone who was not faithful. What good was the letter, if a church is obligated to accept everyone who requests to be accepted?
2 Corinthians 3:1 – “Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?”
Paul said he did not need letters of commendation to or from the church in Corinth, because he was already known there. Nevertheless, he stated that some people do need letters of commendation. He did not, but "some others" do need them. When people move to a new area and are unknown to the church, then the church has every right to communicate to know if a member is "commendable."
What purpose would such a letter serve unless it is understood that members should become part of the church where they move? If they do not intend to become part of the church, they would not need a letter anyway.
Phebe
Romans 16:1-2 – “I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.”
Note that the church that the person is transferring from is the one writing a letter to the church the member is transferring to and not the other way around. Paul was the one writing to the church at rome to receive Phebe.
Conclusions
So the New Testament pattern is that Christians should be identified or become part of a faithful local congregation in the area where they live or stay a significant amount of time. When they move to a new area, they should seek out a faithful congregation in that area and become recognized as part of it.
There may be some variation in the method by which a Christian makes known this intent. Apollos had a letter sent from the church he previously worked with. Saul received a personal commendation. So, the particular method is not binding. Nevertheless, each individual should make known in some manner that he does want to be considered part of the local church.
Remember, we are taught to imitate such examples (Phil. 3:17; 4:9). What Bible passage would authorize a person to move to an area and then make no effort to become part of a local church? Where is the Bible authority for a Christian to move to an area where there is a faithful church, yet they continue to claim membership of the church "back home," even though they are too far from the church back home to attend and be part of its work?
Under certain conditions, a ball player may move from one team to another or a student may transfer from one college to another. But a player must affiliate with a team and a student must enroll in a college. Likewise, a faithful Christian may move from one local church to another but he must commit himself to be part of a faithful local church.
Since God shows no partiality (Acts 10:34,35), if one person may refuse to be part of a local
church, then all may refuse. But if all refuse to be part of a local church, how would any
church function?
Note carefully that one must identify with a faithful local church - not just any church. Just as the church must be careful to accept only faithful Christians, so a Christian must take care to become part of a faithful church.
And remember, all of this is important because it is God's will and because of the church's connection to God. To sever our connection with the church is to sever our fellowship with God!
If any pastor believe that transfer of membership is not necessary for a Christian moving or staying in a place away from his/her local church in a significant amount of time you are welcome to open the Bible and show from the Word of God such belief or teaching that you are holding on to! God bless!
Just to add, transferring of membership has been a Baptist practice since time in memorial. On the back of this page is a sample of a Baptist church covenant. Most churches have removed the last point.
You can download the pdf file by clicking here
Note carefully that one must identify with a faithful local church - not just any church. Just as the church must be careful to accept only faithful Christians, so a Christian must take care to become part of a faithful church.
And remember, all of this is important because it is God's will and because of the church's connection to God. To sever our connection with the church is to sever our fellowship with God!
If any pastor believe that transfer of membership is not necessary for a Christian moving or staying in a place away from his/her local church in a significant amount of time you are welcome to open the Bible and show from the Word of God such belief or teaching that you are holding on to! God bless!
Just to add, transferring of membership has been a Baptist practice since time in memorial. On the back of this page is a sample of a Baptist church covenant. Most churches have removed the last point.
You can download the pdf file by clicking here
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