Every few months Old Otterbein United Methodist Church offers “membership exploration classes” for those who are thinking about joining our congregation. It is a good opportunity for all of us to stop and think about why we are members of a church. 

One of the most common misconceptions is that we join a church because we get something out of it.  We certainly feel that way when our hearts are moved in worship. We feel that way as our congregation rallies around us when we are going through hard times or when they celebrate with us in good ones. We know there is an advantage to being held accountable for our thoughts and actions---that being part of God’s household puts us under the authority of Christ. All these things might make us think of what we “get” out of church, but in actual fact being a church member is what we “give” the church--or more accurately, what we “give” God. 

When our hearts our moved in worship, we are responding to God’s love. When our congregation rallies around us in good times and bad, we are sharing in God’s love. We join a church, because the Bible teaches us that we should live our lives in covenant (agreement) with one another through Christ. We join a church, so that we can vote and take part in big decisions. We join a church, so we can serve responsibly. Every once-in-a-while we should re-evaluate whether or not we are doing these things. Are we involved with missions? Are we engaged with social justice issues? Which area in my church needs the gifts I can offer right now?

We live in a consumer culture that asks, “what will I get out of it if I join?” Yes, we get fed, filled and nourished along the way, but that is not the reason why we join. We join to be “fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household.” Let us continue working together in Christ, as we prepare to welcome new members into our Old Otterbein family.

Grace and peace, 

Pastor Mernie