No Dereliction of Duty

What is the benefit of membership with a local body of believers in Christ, known as the church? Is there a need for a faithfulness and commitment to the other members in the Lord? What are the details of such a commitment? The delineation of those details are found within the covenant of Good News Baptist Church, and are essential to the health and development of each individual part. The outworking of the covenant begins with the body’s complete operation and full participation in all the weekly services which afford the membership an expression of their love for God through talking with Him, singing to Him, hearing from Him, giving to Him, serving for Him as we rub shoulders together in necessary weekly fellowship for the sake of encouragement and edification (Hebrews 10:24-25). Consider the following covenant as we seek to exalt God by deepening our love for one another with loving care one for another on a consistent basis:
 
  Having received Jesus Christ as my personal Savior, having been immersed in obedience to His Word, and having been providentially brought together with this group of believers, I willingly enter into covenant with the members of this local body of Christ. Recognizing the authority of God and His Word in my life, with the help of the Holy Spirit:
  I purpose to grow in Christ by continually seeking to put off the thoughts, words and acts of my old life and put on the likeness of Christ; by having regular times of personal and family devotions; and by leading my family in a life of obedience to God’s Word.
  I purpose to make my church a vital part of my life — to attend its meetings; to promote its spirituality and growth; to pray for and support its leaders; to financially support its ministry; to serve according to the gifts God has given me; and to advance the cause of Jesus Christ by seeking the salvation of my relatives and acquaintances.
  I purpose to glorify God by being honest in my dealings with others; by setting a godly example in my appearance and conduct; by abstaining from the use of alcohol as a beverage and the illicit use of drugs; by avoiding activities that would damage or hinder my testimony for Christ; and by exercising my Christian liberty in a way that will not cause my brother to stumble.
  I purpose to walk in Christian love by praying for and helping others in times of sickness or distress and to guard the harmony and testimony of this church by avoiding gossip and by being slow to anger and courteous in my speech.
  If I move away from this area, I will seek to unite with another local church that believes, preaches, and practices the Bible. If no such church is available, I will make an effort to see that one is established.