“For the body does not consist of one member but of many.” 1 Corinthians 12:14
Paul here, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, compares the Church of Jesus Christ to a body, and individual members of the church to the various parts of the body. And he expresses beautifully, the variety and necessity of each of the parts of the body. While this certainly applies to the church universal, yet this glorious truth of many members in one body, finds its clearest expression in the local church.
Church membership may not be explicitly taught in Scripture, yet it most certainly is implied in various passages (1 Thess. 5:12, Heb. 13:17), and the principles of commitment and dedication are central to the Word of God. But Church membership, carries not only responsibilities such as routine attendance at the worship services, loving concern for the other members, involvement in ministry, and regular financial contributions, but also great privileges. God has given us the church as a gift! God has not intended that believers should live their Christian lives on an island, but rather He has provided the church as a place to belong.
Newcastle Fellowship Baptist Church is our church family! And while all of us ought to be friendly and gracious with our neighbours, yet all of us also recognize that members of our own family hold a special place in our hearts! NFBC is made up of many members – all unique, all with our own weaknesses and shortcomings – yet we are a family that loves one another and cares deeply for one another. We are a family that grieves when one is hurting, and a family that rejoices when there is occasion for great joy. We aren’t perfect, but we are growing up in every way into him who is the Head, even Christ Jesus!
And today we rejoice that God is continuing to build His church here in Newcastle. We are privileged today to witness 6 baptisms, hear 13 testimonies, and welcome 10 people into full church membership. And we do indeed welcome all of you! What a blessing to hear testimonies of God’s varied grace in all of your lives! May God continue to bless you through the ministry here, and may He use all of you as a blessing in our lives, for His eternal glory!!
