Covenant Membership
A casual reading of Scripture reveals that the commitment of believers to one another is anything but casual. It both describes and prescribes the formal and profound relationship that exists among those who have been reconciled to God and each other. This relationship is primarily fulfilled within the fold of this messy and beautiful reality called the local church. Covenant Membership provides that formal affirmation between a Church and a Christian. It is characterised by the church’s affirmation and oversight of a Christian’s discipleship and the Christian’s submission to living out his or her discipleship in the care of the church.
A commitment to each other before God
This covenant expresses the mutual expectations and hopes, which we as individuals freely commit to in becoming members of Hills Bible Church. While we will inevitably fail from time to time, this covenant still sets the ideals and goals to which each member is committed.
IN MY PERSONAL LIFE: I acknowledge Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour, and I will seek to honour Him by my attitudes, speech and actions. I will seek to prioritise and nurture my spiritual growth, particularly through regular prayer, consistent study of God’s Word and regular corporate worship (Rom 12:1-2).
TOWARD MY FELLOW BELIEVERS: I will work to maintain the unity granted by the Spirit of the risen Christ and treat others with a loving and humble spirit in recognition of our mutual spiritual frailty. I will earnestly seek to resolve conflict between members in accordance with the “Rule of Christ” (Matt 18:15-20), avoiding actions that would increase conflict between members. I will always look to support others in situations of genuine need, crisis and suffering (1 John 3:17-18).
FOR THE GOOD OF THE CHURCH: I will exercise my spiritual gifts and talents contributing to the building up of the whole church family. I will participate in the process of discerning the Spirit’s leading through prayerful participation in church members’ meetings. I will encourage and support the appointed leaders and pastors of the church as they coordinate and facilitate our ministries in order to fulfil our mission (Heb 13:7, 17).
AS A CHRISTIAN STEWARD: I will be faithful in all things entrusted into my care, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, my time and my home. I will express my gratitude to Christ through faithful financial contribution to Hills Bible Church, in accordance with what I have decided in my heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion (2 Cor 9:6-7).
BEFORE THE WORLD: I will, with the enablement of the Holy Spirit, strive to live in accordance with the teachings of the Gospel in all aspects of my life to bear witness to the reign of Jesus Christ. I will, trusting in the sovereignty of God and relying on the power of the Holy Spirit, seek to be a witness of the Lord Jesus Christ as I have opportunity (1 Pet 2:9).