Much of the essence of American society today is centered around success at the expense of others, independence, individualism and entitlement. All of these things are contrary to what our focus should be as Christians. We are created to be interdependent. Today's culture has created many spiritual orphans, those who have no commitment to a church body, without any identity or accountability. Therefore, Warren urges Christians to return to the Biblical basics in the practice of church membership.
1. The church is a body, not a building; an organism, not an organization.
2. Our "family responsibilities" that God expects us to fulfill through local church membership include: loving one another, praying for each other, encourage, admonish, greet, serve, teach, accept, forgive, submit, and honor one another....
3. The church was created to meet our 5 deepest needs: a purpose to live for, people to live with, principles to live by, a profession to live out, and power to live on.
4. Every time you understand and affirm someone's feelings, you build fellowship.
5. Humble people are so focused on serving others, they don't think of themselves. You can develop humility by: admitting your weaknesses, being patient with others, being open to correction, and by pointing the spotlight on others.
The Biblical practice of church membership gives one many opportunities to practice fellowship and humility. Perhaps then, we can learn to love...
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