It seems that there is a lot of apathy surrounding the issue of Church Membership. Many churches do not require membership of its attendees. These churches will often cite reasons such as legalism in its defense. Many attendees refuse to join a church on the grounds that it is unnecessary to their spiritual growth. They claim that spiritual maturity can be obtained apart from the church, some even claiming that the internet or television or Christian radio will suffice. Into the confusion Wayne Mack thrusts a little booklet (75 pages) to help Christians get a handle on what the Bible has to say about this important issue. Should you commit yourself to membership in a local church? Isn’t just being a Christian enough? Where does the Bible say that we have to become members of a church…why can’t I just attend and get involved? Dr. Mack addresses these questions and more. In four short chapters, he articulates the question of church membership, presents the importance of it, defends it, and presents the benefits of it. The first chapter is basically a look at the historical view of membership vs. the “modern” view. Chapter 2 begins a list of ten reasons for church membership. The first reason, the “one anothering” commands of Scripture, fills the remainder of that chapter. The third chapter begins with the second reason for church membership: The Christian’s responsibility to elders require church membership. Other reasons are discussed in this chapter, including church orderliness, ministry opportunities and ministry privileges. This chapter also includes a very helpful list of questions (21) designed to promote excitement, responsibility and privilege of church ministry, and a list of ministry opportunities (41) designed to demonstrate that there are important ministries for every person in the church if they are willing to accept them. Finally, the fourth chapter takes up the eighth reason for church membership with a lengthy discussion (compared to the others) of accountability. It finishes with reasons nine and ten, followed by a call to commitment. Dr. Mack asserts that “many Christians in our day think no more highly of membership in the church than they think of membership in a local country club”. This is a book that every Christian should read – member and non-member alike, and every pastor should hand out to his congregation! Read ‘em & Reap! - Brad