The difference between being a church attender or a church member is commitment. Attenders are spectators from the sidelines. Members get involved in the ministry. Attenders are consumers. Members are contributors. Attenders get the benefits of a church without sharing the responsibility. Because of these realities, we encourage you to make a commitment to the local church.

The Benefits of Membership

When you become a member of a church these benefits come your way.

1. You are identified as a genuine believer in Jesus Christ.

When someone becomes a member of First Central Baptist Church they are required to go through the Pastor's Welcome Class and Baptism Class. These venues help people understand what it means to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and receive Christ as Savior. When someone receives Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and follows Him in baptism the next step is church membership. Your membership identifies you as someone who knows Christ.

2. You have a family who cares about you.

Over 50 times in the New Testament the phrase "one another" is used. We are told to love each other, encourage each other, admonish each other, pray for each other and many other mutual tasks. In addition, our leaders are called to protect, defend and care for the spiritual welfare of your soul. (Hebrews 13:17). This commitment to you comes to you when you join a church.

3. You have opportunities to share in building Christ's kingdom.

When Jesus walked on earth, God worked through the physical body of Christ; Today He uses His spiritual body. The church is God's instrument on earth. As members of His body, we are His hands, His feet, His eyes and His heart. We have a contribution to make. Ephesians 2:10 teaches that we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. We have high expectations that our members will find a place of service in our church.

How to become a member of First Central Baptist Church

1. Attend the Welcome Class.

This class offers people a comprehensive understanding of our church's vision, values and beliefs. Attending this class helps you make an informed commitment.

2. Complete and submit the Membership Application. (Download Application)

3. Complete this 6-item membership checklist.

a) Know Christ personally as Savior and Lord
b) Be baptized by immersion after believing in Christ
c) Understand and agree with First Central's Statement of Faith
d) Understand how First Central is governed and willingly submit to Church authority
e) Demonstrate a willingness to be a responsible member and find a place of service in our church.
f) Personal and private "heart check" for right relationship
i. With God
ii. With others and
iii. With previous church if transferring membership

4. Attend one or more follow-up sessions with church leader.

5. Receive affirmation of membership from church body and welcomed into fellowship.