Membership Has Its Benefits: 4 Reasons to Join a Church

This morning I was with Ryan Townsend as he preached at Calvary Goodyear Church in Goodyear, Arizona.  The sermon was an overview of the book of Ephesians, in which Ryan sought to lay out a biblical vision of the church.  In describing the practical implications of church membership, Ryan suggested four reasons to join a church.  Here are my notes from this section of Ryan's sermon:

FOUR REASONS TO JOIN A CHURCH

1. For non-Christians

• Membership makes clear who is a Christian and who is not.
• The church is God's best evangelism "program."  A healthy, regenerate church membership provides a clear, compeling Gospel witness to non-Christians. Keep Reading...
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Facing Attack and Betrayal by Church Members

How does a pastor face being attacked and betrayed by one of his most supportive church members?

Some of the most painful situations I have ever faced in ministry is when those whom are your biggest supporters are the ones who turn on you.  I can remember trembling when I read Charles Spurgeon’s advice, “Prepare for when your dearest brother betrays you.”  What, you mean that will happen?

In over 16 years of pastoral ministry, I can still remember the most hateful and painful letter I have ever received.  It was from one of my dearest supporters and defenders of me and my ministry at the time, who had just left the church over a difficult decision I had to make that personally effected this individual. 

How do you face these kinds of hurtful betrayals?  3 suggestions: Keep Reading...