Conclusion

 

What next?  As noted in the introduction, this course is meant to help prepare you to make a good profession of faith in Jesus Christ.  In order to do this you do not need to agree with every detail of what has been said above, understand everything you have read, or be able to repeat it all.  This course is a beginning, not an end.  As a foundation it is meant to stimulate you and give you a structured guide for further study.

The question you now need to ask is “Can I answer ‘yes’ to each of the questions for public profession of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ?” (cf. Appendix A)  Are these your considered and heartfelt convictions based on the Word of God?  If your answer is “Yes” then your are ready for the next step.

You should meet with the pastor to make your desire for membership known.  At that time be sure to ask him any doctrinal or personal questions you may have.  It is also important to state any disagreements you may have with what has been taught here.

Then, if the pastor thinks you are ready, you will come before the session for examination.  This is not something to be feared.  The elders are delighted to hear God’s children profess their faith in Jesus Christ.  The elders will want to hear how you came to know the Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.  They will also want to know why you wish to join this particular church.  Then they will ask you each of the four questions for public profession.  The elders may want to ask further questions in each of the four areas.  They will also want to hear your expectations of the church and how you intend to serve your Lord in His church.  There will be no trick questions.  You do not need to be a theologian to become a member of the church.  You need to be a genuine Christian.  That is what the session is interested in.

As you make your profession take the inspired words of Paul to heart: “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses” (1 Tim. 6:12).

 

 

 

 

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