Why do we have Members’ Meetings? Have you ever stopped to ask yourself this question? For most of us the answer is either no, I’ve never stopped to think about that, or we answer “because we have always had them”. The answer to this question about Members’ Meetings can help us think about our Church and our own membership. In my mind Members’ Meetings serve three main roles:
- They keep the members of the church informed about what is happening in the church. As we continue to grow as a church the ministries of the church should grow as well. This means that over time what we are doing as a church is not known by any one person. It becomes important to have regular times to join together and hear about all that the Lord is doing through his Church.
- They allow members to gather to pray and encourage each other. In scripture we are given specific commands towards other believers. These commands are often fulfilled during the regular gathering on Sundays and in Small Groups, but having a dedicated time to pray together and hear stories is important to fulfilling our Biblical command. Members’ Meeting help us meet these clear biblical commands.
- They focus us on the mission and vision of the church. Through hearing committee reports, approving new members, sharing testimony, or voicing concerns, Members’ Meetings ensure that we are all moving in the same direction. The goal is always for us to leave unified in mission. This is often done through great conversations and through the communal shaping of vision that can only happen when the congregation of believers is gathered.
Hopefully you now see why we put an emphasis on Members’ Meetings. I encourage you to make this Sunday’s Members’ Meeting a priority for you (also don’t forget to bring something yummy for the potluck). I look forward to hearing how the Lord is working in your life and the life of our congregation.
Your partner in the Gospel,
Pastor Nic
