WHAT DOES UNION BELIEVE ABOUT MEMBERSHIP?

 

 

The Bible describes life within the local church as a partnership. Churches are made up of an identifiable group of Christians who partner together to fulfill the mission of Christ and to hold one another accountable to their commitment to follow Christ. Becoming a member of Union means that you are committing to this partnership with the members and pastors of the church. It also means that our church family is committing to you. We will commit to shepherd, encourage, admonish, pray for, and equip you for the work of ministry.

We have a high view of the church because God has a high view of the church. The Bible says that the church is the “bride” of Christ (Eph. 5:25-27). The church is the means by which God is fulfilling His mission in the world. It is the primary environment where Christian growth occurs. We believe that God expects every Christian to be a committed and active member of a local church. We would love to have you partner with us to fulfill the mission of God. However, we acknowledge that Union is not for everybody. It is not our desire to get everybody to join our church. We do want to encourage every Christian to commit to a Gospel-focused church where they can be actively engaged.

How do I join Union as a member?

At the close of each service, we extend an invitation for people to come forward to receive prayer, counseling, or information about joining our church. At that time, our counselors can assist you and gather any necessary information. As a general rule, you can unite with Union Baptist Church in one of the following ways:

  • A profession of faith in Jesus Christ, followed by Scriptural baptism. (see below)
  • Affirmation of faith in Jesus Christ, followed by Scriptural baptism.
  • Statement of faith in Jesus Christ and Scriptural baptism.
  • Transferring membership from another Baptist church of like faith.
 

Then what?Union Baptist Transparent

 
 
 
 
 
 

Should I Be Baptized?baptism-feature

Baptism isn’t required for salvation, but is the first step of faith for believers. The baptismal waters don’t save anyone. It’s Jesus that does that. Baptism is a picture of the work that Jesus has done in a person’s heart.

Baptism illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.                    (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) It shows our new life as a follower of Christ.         (2 Corinthians 5:17) Baptism doesn’t make you a believer… it shows that you already believe. Baptism doesn’t save you; Jesus does! Baptism is like a wedding ring, signifying a relationship rather than forming that relationship.

We follow Jesus’ example in baptism. He was baptized (Mark 1:9), and commanded us to be baptized (Matthew 28:19-20).

At Union, we baptize by immersion. That’s the example we see throughout Scripture, and is the basis for the meaning of the word “baptize,” which means to immerse (or dip under) in water.

Ready to be baptized?

If you’re a believer, you should be baptized! It doesn’t matter if you were saved 20 years ago or just last week… it’s time to take the next step in your faith journey.

We can normally baptize you during any worship service. Just let us know when you would like to be baptized and someone will set up a time and give you instructions.

 

office@DiscoverUnion.org  or 865.687.4500