Membership Expectations
Members and Prospective Members,
As those who have experienced the grace of a life changed by the gospel of Jesus Christ, we have the opportunity to reflect the character of Christ through the pursuit of certain attitudes and actions and the rejection of others. The Scriptures refer to this reality as “living by the Spirit” (Rom. 8).
The Expectations of Membership are in no way intended as “an addition to” the biblical obligations of a believer. Rather, this document functions primarily as an accessible yet non-exhaustive explanation of what the Scriptures teach about the obedience that faith produces.
I am expected to ...
Submit to the authority of the Scriptures as the final arbiter on all issues (Ps. 119; 2 Tim. 3:14–17; 2 Pet. 1:19–21).
To pursue the Lord Jesus Christ through regular Bible reading, prayer, fellowship, and practice of spiritual disciplines (Luke 18:1; Acts 17:11; 1 Cor. 9:24– 27; Eph. 5:1–21; 1 Thess. 5:12–22).
To follow the command and example of Jesus by participating in the ordinances prescribed to His Church:
by being baptized after my conversion.
by regularly remembering and celebrating the person and work of Christ through communion.
to regularly participate in the life of First Baptist Church — Clay, by attending weekly services (click here for reasons to attend/not attend weekly worship), engaging in gospel-centered community, and serving those within and outside of this church (Acts 2:42–47; Heb. 10:23–25; Titus 3:14).
to steward the resources God has given me, including time, talents, spiritual gifts, and finances. This includes regular financial giving, service, and participation in community that is sacrificial, cheerful, and voluntary (Matt. 25:14–30; Rom. 12:1–2; 2 Cor. 8–9; 1 Pet. 4:10–11).
by God’s grace through the power of the Holy Spirit, walk in holiness in all areas of life as an act of worship to Jesus Christ (1 Pet. 1:13–16, 4:1–3).