What is membership?
Membership is making a formal commitment to Creekside. It's how you join this local church.
How do I become a member?
Membership is for Christians; for those who have trusted in Jesus for salvation. If you are interested in becoming a Christian, please read this. If you are already a Christian, here's how to become a member.
1. Attend Creekside for at least 6 months.
2. Get baptized (if you haven't done so already.)
3. Complete our membership course (taught throughout the year.)
4. Sign our membership covenant.
How old do I need to be?
Anyone 12 or older can become a member.
Is membership biblical?
Yes. Every Christian should be a member of a local church. Here are three reasons: [1]
1. Jesus established the church as a public institution that would affirm and oversee those who profess faith in him (Matthew 16:18-19, 18:15-20). Jesus wants the world to know who belongs to him. How will the world know this? Historically, it has been as people have identified themselves with visible, local churches (see John 17:21, 23; Ephesians 3:10).
2. Scripture commands Christians to follow their leaders (Hebrews 13:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). The only way a believer can do this today is by formally committing to the specific leadership of a specific flock.
3. Scripture commands leaders to watch over the flock as those who must give an account (Hebrews 13:17). To do this effectively, leaders must be able to formally identify the members of their flock.
Why do you require people to be baptized before joining Creekside?
Jesus commands us to baptize all who place their trust in him (Matthew 28:19-20). We do not believe that baptism is necessary for salvation. Rather, baptism is how we publicly declare our faith in Christ and our membership in his church. Baptism is the pathway to ongoing identification with Christ's people. We want to obey Jesus. Therefore, we ask you to be baptized prior to joining Creekside.
Why should I become a member?
If you are a regular attender of Creekside, we encourage you to prayerfully consider becoming a formal member of our congregation. We believe that we grow by the commitments we make, not by the information we receive. Becoming a member of Creekside means we've stopped dating and are committing ourselves to one another. You are committing yourself to this congregation to care for its members, to participate in its mission and to follow its leaders. And Creekside is committing itself to care, encourage, pray for, shepherd and disciple you toward spiritual health and effective service. By becoming a member of Creekside, you join the team. You participate in a larger, unified effort of God's people. You are able to assume greater ministry responsibilities. And you are able to shape Creekside's future as a member of our voting congregation.
What if I have more questions?
Contact Jeff Bruce at (510) 764-2312.
Membership Resources
If you're currently enrolled in the class, go here for membership resources.
[1] These are adapted from http://www.9marks.org/answers/according-scripture-why-should-every-christian-join-church