DISCOVERING CHURCH

MEMBERSHIP
CLASS 101

Christian Life Church Guelph

Christian Life And Service Seminars

(Updated January 2015)

 WELCOME TO
DISCOVERING CHURCH MEMBERSHIP

We’re glad you’ve chosen to find out more about Life Church! This class is the basic introduction to our church
family. Since we have members from many different church backgrounds, this class was designed to clearly explain
who and what our church is.

THE BASICS FOR THIS CLASS

“...You are a member of God’s very own family...and you belong in God’s household with every other Christian.”
Ephesians 2:19

Key Truths:

1. The church is A FAMILY made up of Christians.

2. As a Christian, God expects you to be A MEMBER of His church family.

THE GOAL OF THIS CLASS

...That I will commit myself to CHRIST and to the CHURCH FAMILY

WHAT MAKES CHRISTIAN LIFE CHURCH A FAMILY?

Four things unite us:

• Our Salvation (What God has done for us)

• Our Statement (Why we exist as a church)

• Our Strategy (How we fulfill our purpose)

• Our Structure (When and where we fulfill our purpose)

 Strategy

(Paul) “I have been all things to all sorts of people that by every possible means I might
win some to God. I do all of this for the sake of the Good News.”
1 Corinthians 9:22-23

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 WHO ARE WE TRYING TO REACH?

“...Yes, whatever a person is like, I try to find common ground with him so he will let me tell him about Christ and let
Christ save him.” 1 Corinthians 9:22

5 CIRCLES OF COMMITMENT

Life Church’s objective is to keep moving people toward the centre by encouraging personal spiritual commitments.
Specifically, we call people to four basic commitments:

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 THE FOUR COVENANTS:

1. THE MEMBERSHIP COVENANT...

…is a commitment to CHRIST and A CHURCH FAMILY.

“You are members of God’s very own family...and you belong in God’s household with every other Christian.”
Ephesians 2:19

“We are all parts of Christ’s Body, and it takes every one of us to make it complete, for we each have different work
to do. So we belong to each other and need all the others.” Romans 12:4-5

2. THE MATURITY COVENANT...

…is a commitment to the HABITS necessary for spiritual growth?

“Continue to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:18

“Take the time and trouble to keep yourself spiritually fit.” 1 Timothy 4:7

3. THE MINISTRY COVENANT...

is a commitment to discovering and using my God-given gifts and abilities in SERVING God and others.

“God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other...” 1 Peters 4:10

“There are different kinds of service to God...together you form the Body of Christ and each one of you is a
necessary part of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:5,27

4. THE MISSIONS COVENANT...

is a commitment to SHARE the Good News with others.

“...you will be my witnesses for me...to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8

“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But
do it with gentleness and respect...” 1 Peter 3:15

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 Structure

“For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace...

Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”
1 Corinthians 14:33,40

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 HOW OUR CHURCH IS STRUCTURED

Church structure should not be determined by culture, business practices, or even denominational traditions.

THE NATURE OF THE CHURCH DETERMINES ITS STRUCTURE.

I. THE CHURCH IS A FELLOWSHIP

“They continued steadily learning the teaching of the apostles, and joined in the fellowship...” Acts 2:42

A top priority in a fellowship is HARMONY and UNITY

“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:3

“So let us concentrate on the things that make for harmony and the growth of our fellowship together.”
Romans 14:19

ANY attitude that causes disunity is sin.

Colossians 3:15, 1 Corinthians 1:10, 2 Timothy 2:14, Pr. 17:14, 2 Corinthians 13:11,
Philippians 1:27, 2:1-3, Colossians 2:2, Philippians 4:2, 1 Peter 3:8, 1 Corinthians 14:33,
John 13:34-35, 2 Timothy 2:23, Romans 15:5-6, Romans 12:16-18,
Colossians 3:13-14, Ps. 133:1

IMPLICATION: A GOOD STRUCTURE PROMOTES UNITY AND DOWNPLAYS DIFFERENCES

“(Often)...your meetings do more harm than good because I hear that when you come together as a church, there
are divisions among you...” 1 Corinthians 11:17-18

The democratic idea of “Voting” on people is a recent (100 year old invention) that does not have a Biblical
background. However, governmental process for charitable organizations require voting therefore At Life Church,
we only vote on the following;

• The Annual budget

• Purchase of land or buildings
• The “Calling” of the senior pastor
• Changes in the church constitution
II. THE CHURCH IS A FAMILY
“You should be like one big happy family, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts
and humble minds.” 1 Peter 3:8, Gal. 6:10, Hebrews 2:10-12, 1 Peter 4:17

SO WE OPERATE ON THE BASIS OF RELATIONSHIPS NOT RULES

“Don’t reprimand a senior member of the church, appeal to him as a father. Treat the young men as brothers, and
the older women as mothers. Treat the younger women as sisters...” 1 Timothy 5:1-2

“(Church leadership) must manage his own family well and see his children obey him with proper respect. If one
does not know how to manage his family, how can he take care of God’s church?” 1 Timothy 3:4-5

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 III. THE CHURCH IS A BODY

1 Corinthians 12:27, Ephesians 5:23, Ephesians 1:22-23, Colossians 1:18, 2:19

We are a body — not a business!
We are an organism — not an organization!

THEREFORE, WE FUNCTION ON THE BASIS OF SPIRTUAL GIFTS NOT ELECTED OFFICERS

“Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in
Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We each have different gifts
according to the grace given us.” Romans 12:4-6

In an organization, “maintenance” becomes the focus. But in an organism, “ministry” is the focus.

AT CHRISTIAN LIFE CHURCH WE HAVE A SIMPLE STRUCTURE SO WE CAN MAXIMIZE MINISTRY

AND MINIMIZE MAINTENANCE

“God gave...some to be pastors and teachers to prepare God’s people for works of ministry, so that the body of
Christ may be built up...” Ephesians 4:11-12
IV. THE CHURCH IS A FLOCK OF SHEEP

(Jesus’ favourite description of the church)

John 10:1-30, Matthew 26:31, Matthew 25:33

THEREFORE, IT IS CARED FOR AND GUIDED BY SHEPHERDS

“Jesus asked Simon Peter, ‘Do you really love me?’ ‘Yes Lord,’ said Peter. ‘Then take care of my sheep.’” John
21:16-17

Three different terms are used in the New Testament to refer to the same church leaders:
• “POIMEN”
• “PRESBUTEROS”
• “EPISCOPOS”

“To the elders I say...Be shepherds of God’s flock, serving as overseers...” 1 Peters 5:1-2
“Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. When they arrived he said to them... Guard yourselves and all
the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be pastors of the church of God...”
Acts 20:17-18, 28

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 The Life Church Statements

“Let there be real harmony among you so there won’t be any split in the church. I plead
with you to be of one mind, united in thought and purpose.”
1 Corinthians 1:10

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 OUR PURPOSE STATEMENT

Why We Exist As A Church

The purpose of our church is summarized in a single sentence based on two key scriptures:

“WE BELIEVE A GREAT COMMITMENT TO THE GREAT COMMISSION AND THE GREAT COMMANDMENT WILL
GROW A CHURCH!”

The Great Commandment: “Jesus said, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart...soul...and mind. This is the
first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and
Prophets hang on these two commandments.’” Matthew 22:36-40

The Great Commission: “Jesus said, ‘Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the
Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Matthew 28:19-20

• To “Love God with all your heart” is “WORSHIP”.

• To “Love your neighbor as yourself” is “MINISTRY”.
• To “Go...make disciples” is “EVANGELISM”.
• To “Baptize...” is to “INCORPORATE INTO FELLOWSHIP”.
• To “Teach them...all things” is “DISCIPLESHIP”.

CHRISTIAN LIFE CHURCH EXISTS:

1. To CELEBRATE God’s Presence (Worship)

2. To DEMONSTRATE God’s Love (Ministry)

3. To COMMUNICATE God’s Word (Evangelism)

4. To ASSIMILATE God’s Family (Fellowship)

5. To EDUCATE God’s People (Discipleship)

I. WE EXIST TO CELEBRATE GOD’S PRESENCE

WORSHIP: EXPRESSING MY LOVE TO GOD AS MY TREASURE

“Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.” Matthew. 4:10

“...The Father seeks worshippers...and His worshippers must worship Him in spirit and in truth.” John 4:23-24

Expressions of Worship

Singing (Ephesians 5:19) Commitment (Romans 12:1-2) Praying (Ps. 95:6)

Hearing the Word (John 17:17) Giving (1 Corinthians 16:1-2) Baptism (Romans 6:3-4)
Meditating (Hab. 2:20) Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11-23-26)

Worship Style

“Celebration” “Inspiration” “Preparation”

Psalm 122:1 Isaiah 40:31 Ephesians 4:11-12

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 II. WE EXIST TO COMMUNICATE GOD’S WORD

EVANGELISM: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS WITH OTHERS

“His intent was that through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known...” Ephesians 3:10

“Anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. But who can ask Him to save them unless they believe in
Him? And how can they believe in Him if they have never heard about Him? And how can they hear about Him
unless someone tells him?” Romans 10:13-14

WHY OUR CHURCH MUST NEVER STOP GROWING

1. Because GOD LOVES PEOPLE

“The Lord...is patient, not wanting anyone to perish, but wants everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter
3:9, 2 Corinthians 5:14, Luke 15:3-10, Matthew. 9:12-13

2. Because GOD COMMANDS US TO REACH OUT

“Go out into the country...and urge anyone you find to come in, so that My House will be full.” Luke 14:23
“...you will be my witnesses...” Acts 1:8

3. Because GROWTH IS GOD’S WILL

“Under Christ’s control, the whole Body is nourished… and grows as God wants it to grow”
Colossians 2:19
“(Jesus) I will build my church.” Matthew. 16:18

Unbiblical Excuses For Not Growing:

• “God isn’t interested in numbers.”
• “Our church wants quality not quantity.”
• “Large churches are impersonal”

We believe our church must grow LARGER and SMALLER at the same time.
“And the Good News of the Kingdom will be preached to the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and THEN
the end will come.” Matthew 24:14
III. WE EXIST TO EDUCATE GOD’S PEOPLE

DISCIPLESHIP: BECOMING SPIRITUALLY MATURE

“Let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity...” Hebrews 6:1
“Grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:18
“(God has given)...some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of ministry, so that the Body
of Christ may be built up until we all...become mature...like Christ.” Ephesians 4:11-13
IV. WE EXIST TO DEMONSTRATE GOD’S LOVE
MINISTRY: MEETING NEEDS WITH LOVE
“By this shall all men know that you are my disciples — that you have love for one another.” John 13:35
1 John 3:16-17, Matthew 25:34-40, Hebrews 13:16, Romans 12:13

The future of Life Church is our SMALL GROUPS Every member needs to be a part of one.
“Now God gives us many kinds of special abilities.. and there are different kinds of service to God (ministry)... All
of you together form the one Body of Christ and each of you is a separate and necessary part of it.”
1 Corinthians 12:4-5, 27

At Life Church every member is a: MINISTER; every task is: IMPORTANT

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 OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH

What We Believe

When it comes to doctrine, culture, preference, traditions, life-styles, politics,

behavior, etc. Life Church takes a “closed- hand/ open-hand” approach. The closed
hand holds the non-negotiable of Christian orthodoxy: simply - sin is the problem,
Jesus Christ is the answer, the Bible is true, and Hell is hot. The open hand however,
allows room for diversity when it comes to secondary matters that are not spelled out
in the Word of God. In this way, we are seeking to heed the Bible’s commands to have
sound doctrine (1 Timothy 4:16, Titus 1:9, 2:1) to love our Christian brothers and
sisters (1 Peter 4:8, 1 John 4:7-21) and to avoid unnecessary divisions. (Romans
16:17, 1 Corinthians 1:10, 12:25 and Titus 3:10)

• In essential beliefs — we have unity.

“There is one Body and one Spirit...there is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of us all...”
Ephesians. 4:4-6

• In non-essential beliefs — we have liberty.

“Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters... Who are you to judge someone else’s
servant? To his own master he stands or falls... So then each of us will give an account of himself to God... So whatever you
believe about these things keep between yourself and God.” Romans 14:1,4,12,22

• In all our beliefs — we show charity.

“...If I hold in my mind not only all human knowledge but also the very secrets of God, and if I have the faith that
can move mountains — but have no love, I amount to nothing at all.” 1 Corinthians 13:2

THE ESSENTIALS WE BELIEVE:

1. ABOUT GOD

God is the Sovereign Creator and Ruler of the universe. He has eternally existed in three persons: the Father, the
Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are co-equal and are one God.

Genesis 1:1,26,27, 3:22; Psalm 90:2; Matthew 28:19;

1 Peter 1:2; 2 Corinthians 13:14
2. ABOUT JESUS CHRIST
Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He is co-equal with the Father. Jesus lived a sinless human life and offered Himself
as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all people by dying on a cross. He arose from the dead after three days to
demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to Heaven’s glory and will return again someday to earth to
reign as King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.

Matthew 1:22, 23; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1-5; 14:10-30;

Hebrews 4:14,15; 1 Corinthians 15:3,4; Romans 1:3,4;
Acts 1:9-11; 1 Timothy 6:14,15; Titus 2:13
3. ABOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT
The Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is present in the world to make men aware of
their need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every Christian from the moment of salvation. He provides the
Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. He gives every
believer a spiritual gift when they are saved. As Christians, we seek to live under His control daily.
2 Corinthians 3:17; John 16:7-13, 14:16,17; Acts 1:8;
1 Corinthians 2:12, 3:16; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:18

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 3.1 ABOUT THE BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Jesus told His followers that after He ascended to Heaven, they would be filled with God’s Spirit. This would
empower them to live a quality of life they could not possibly produce themselves. Soon after, during one of the
Jewish religious holidays-the Day of Pentecost- the spokesman for the disciples, Peter, began to preach. God
spoke through him as he said, “Repent and be baptized, everyone of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the
forgiveness of your sins. And you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise (of the Spirit) is unto
you….and to as many as the Lord will call.”
We also believe that when people begin to follow Jesus and are baptized in His name, they will also receive the
gift of the Holy Spirit-God at work in their lives empowering them to live a life pleasing to Him.
When we get together as the Church, God’s Spirit is with us directing and leading us. Singing, praying, preaching
from the Bible, and other expressions of the Spirit are all part of our gatherings. We believe that the spiritual gifts
as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12 are still operating today, including ministry gifts of wisdom, word of knowledge,
faith, healing, miracles, prophecies, discerning of spirits, tongues, and interpretation of tongues.

Acts 1:8; John 16:8-11, 1 Corinthians 12; 1 Corinthians 14

4. ABOUT THE GOSPEL

The Gospel is the good news about Jesus Christ, who was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died on a cross and
rose again from the grave and ascended to the Father. The Gospel is what God has done to save sinners through the
sacrificial death and resurrection of Christ Jesus; the eternal Son of the Living God. Romans 1:18-3:20
5. ABOUT THE BIBLE
The Bible is God’s Word to us is very important. Human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit,
wrote the Bible. It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living. The original manuscripts were
written in Aramaic, Hebrew & Greek and those manuscripts in their original state are God’s word without error.
English translation then is very important. Bible translations are set into three basic categories; word for word,
thought for thought and personal opinions. The “Word for Word Bible” is what we strive for such as the New
King James Version, the English Standard Version and the New American Standard Version. For pure reading
“Open” or “Amplified Bibles” are ok, but for study- a word for word is of utmost importance. More recently there
has been a “majority text” that has come available. It is not available as of yet in your average bookstore, but may it
be so- Amen!
2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20,21; 2 Timothy 1:13;
Psalm 119:105,160, 12:6; Proverbs 30:5
6. ABOUT HUMAN BEINGS
People are made in the spiritual image of God, to be like Him in character. People are the supreme object of God’s
creation. Although every person has tremendous potential for good, all of us are marred by an attitude of
disobedience toward God called “sin”. This attitude separates people from God and causes many problems in life.

Genesis 1:27; Psalm 8:3-6; Isaiah 53:6a; Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:1, 2
7. ABOUT SALVATION
Salvation is God’s free gift to us. We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good works. Only by
trusting in Jesus Christ as God’s offer of forgiveness can anyone be saved from sin’s penalty of eternal. When we
turn from our self-ruled life and turn to Jesus in faith we are saved. Eternal life begins the moment one receives
Jesus Christ into his life by faith.
Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8,9; John 14:6, 1:12; Titus 3:5; Galatians 3:26; Romans 5:1
8. ABOUT ETERNAL LIFE
People were created to exist forever. We will either exist eternally separated from God by sin, or eternally with God
through forgiveness and salvation. To be eternally separated from God is Hell. To be eternally in union with Him is
eternal life. Heaven and Hell are real places of eternal existence. Because God gives us eternal life through Jesus
Christ, the true believer's salvation is for eternity. Salvation is maintained by the grace and power of God, not by the
self-effort of the Christian. It is the grace and keeping power of God that gives us this security.

John 10:29; 2 Timothy 1:12; Hebrews 7:25, 10:10,14; 1 Peter 1:3-5

John 3:16; John 14:17; Romans 6:23; Romans 8:17-18; Revelation 20:15; 1 Corinthians 2:7-9

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 OUR LIFESTYLE STATEMENT

What We Practice

Beliefs are not worth much unless they are translated into actions. Based on what the Bible teaches, we feel very
strongly about the following seven practices:

THE BIBLE AS OUR SOLE AUTHORITY

“The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and make us
realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us to do what is right.” 2 Timothy 3:15
Since God’s Word is the only completely reliable and truthful authority, we accept the Bible as our manual for living.
Our first question when faced with a decision is “What does the Bible say?” We practice daily Bible reading, Bible
study, and Bible memorization. The Bible is the basis for all we believe.

AUTONOMY OF EACH LOCAL CHURCH

“Christ is the head of His Body, the church. He is the source of the Body’s life...” Colossians. 1:18
Christ is the recognized head of our church, not any person, group, or religious organization. While recognizing the
value of affiliation with the PAOC and cooperating with other groups of Christians, we believe every local church
should function as self-governing fellowship.

PRIESTHOOD OF EVERY BELIEVER

“Christ loves us, and by His death He has freed us from our sins and made us a kingdom of priests to serve
God...” Revelation 1:6 “You are...the King’s priests...God’s own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of
God.” 1 Peter 2:9
The Bible teaches that every Christian is called to “full time” Christian service, regardless of his or her vocation. We
practice the truth that “every believer is a minister” by encouraging every member to find a place of service and
ministry. Every believer has direct access to God through prayer Bible reading.

TITHING
“A tithe of everything you produce belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord.” Leviticus. 26:30
Tithing is giving the first of everything. The tithe is the first of everything; your time, your efforts, your income. At
Life Church we practice financial tithing for the support of Christ’s body, the church, as God commands. The word
“tithe” itself literally means 10%; so we recognize that giving 10% of our income is the Biblical standard of giving.
It predates the Law and dates back to Abraham in the Old Testament.

Baptism by IMMERSION
“For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ...”
Colossians. 2:12
Baptize means to literally immerse or submerse. We practice baptism by immersion under water — the way Jesus
was baptized, and the way the Bible commands.
SPIRIT-LED LIVING
(Jesus said), “I am the Vine, you are the branches. If you abide in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; but
apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
The only way possible to live the Christian life is by God’s power within us. So we seek to practice a daily
dependence on God’s Spirit to enable us to do what is right. (Philippians 2:13, Ephesians 5:18)
WITNESSING
“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”
1 Peter 3:15
It is the responsibility of every Christian to share the Good News with those with whom God brings us into contact.
We practice personal sharing about Christ and inviting friends to church.

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 Salvation

“For now we are all children of God through faith in Jesus Christ, and we who have been
baptized into union with Christ are enveloped by Him. We are no longer Jews or
Gentiles, or slaves or free men, or even merely men or women, but we are all the same —
we are Christians; we are one in Jesus Christ.”
Galatians 3:26-28

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 WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A CHRISTIAN?

Most people live their entire lives without ever knowing “WHY?” They exist year after year with no idea of why
they live or God’s purpose for their lives. The most basic question a person can ask is, “What is the meaning of
life?”

Everyone wants to be happy. People try many ways:

...Some look for happiness by acquiring possessions.

...Some look for happiness by experiencing pleasure.
...Some look for happiness by gaining prestige & power.

But real happiness comes from understanding

GOD’S PURPOSE IN LIFE

I. WHY AM I HERE?

1. GOD MADE YOU FOR HIS GLORY & THE PURPOSE OF LOVING .

God says, “I have loved you with an everlasting love!” Jeremiah. 31:3

“Even before the world was made, God had already chosen us to be His through our union with Christ...because of
His love. God had already decided that through Jesus Christ He would make us His children — this was God’s
pleasure and purpose.” Ephesians 1:4-5

2. WE WERE CREATED TO ENJOY A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD AND TO MANAGE ALL OF THE
REST OF GOD’S CREATION! THIS MAKES US UNIQUE!

“So God created human beings, making them in His image. He blessed them, and said,...live all over the earth and
bring it under control. I am putting you in charge.” Genesis 1:27-28

“God richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” 1 Timothy 6:17

Jesus said, “I have come in order that you might have life — life in all its fullness!” John 10:10

3. WHEN WE KNOW AND LOVE GOD, AND LIVE IN HARMONY WITH HIS PURPOSE FOR OUR LIVES, IT
PRODUCES TREMENDOUS BENEFITS IN OUR LIVES:

Clear Conscience Life & Peace Help with Weakness

Romans 8:1 Romans 8:6 Romans 8:26

Purpose Confidence Security

Romans 8:28 Romans 8:31 Romans 8:39

Power & Strength Fulfillment Freedom

Philippians 4:13 Philippians 4:19 John 8:32,36

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 II. WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?

Man has a natural desire to BE THE BOSS and to ignore God’s principles for living.

“Look out for #1. Do your own thing.”

“If it feels good, do it - regardless of what God says about it.”
“It’s my life and I’ll do what I please!”

THE BIBLE CALLS THIS ATTITUDE: SIN

“All of us, like sheep, have gone astray, and each of us has turned to his own way.” Isaiah 53:6

“If we say that we never sin, we are only fooling ourselves, and refuse to accept the truth.” 1 John 1:8

Sin breaks our close relationship with God. It causes us to fear God and try to live our lives outside of His will.

“The trouble is that your sins have cut you off from God.” Isaiah 59:2

“All have sinned and fall short of God’s glorious ideal.” Romans 3:23

When our relationship to God is not right, it causes PROBLEMS in every area of our lives — marriage,
career, relationships, finances, etc.

WHEN PEOPLE HAVE PROBLEMS, THEY OFTEN TRY MANY DIFFERENT WAYS OF COPING
BEFORE TURNING TO GOD.

“There are ways that SEEM right to man, but they only end in death.” Proverbs 16:25

Even when we know that our deepest need is God, we often try wrong ways of getting to know Him:

• “My mother was a Christian so...”

• “It doesn’t matter what you believe, just be sincere.”
• “I’ll give up all my bad habits.”
• “I’ll work real hard and earn it.”
• “I’ll be religious and go to church.”

III. WHAT’S THE SOLUTION?

Jesus Christ said, “I AM THE WAY, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father, except THROUGH ME!”
John 14:6

God Himself came to earth as a human being to bring us back to Himself. If any other way would have worked,
Jesus Christ would not have had to come. The Way is a Person!

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 JESUS HAS ALREADY TAKEN CARE

OF YOUR SIN PROBLEM!

“The wages of sin in death, BUT the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23

God did this for us because He loves us and wants us to know Him.

“God demonstrated His love for us in that while we were still separated from God by sin, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:8

“God is on one side and all people are on the other side, and Christ Jesus is between them to bring them together, by
giving His life for all mankind.” 1 Timothy 2:5

IV. WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?

1. ADMIT GOD HAS NOT BEEN FIRST PLACE IN YOUR LIFE AND ASK HIM TO FORGIVE YOUR SINS.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from every wrong.” 1
John 1:9

2. BELIEVE THAT JESUS DIED TO PAY FOR YOUR SINS AND THAT HE ROSE AGAIN AS CELEBRATED AT
EASTER, AND IS ALIVE TODAY.

“If you confess that Jesus is your Lord, and you believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will
be saved.” Romans 10:9

“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name (Jesus) by which we must be saved.”
Acts 4:12

3. ACCEPT GOD’S FREE GIFT OF SALVATION. DON’T TRY TO EARN IT.

“For it is by grace you are saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works,
so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8,9

Our relationship to God is not restored by anything we do, but on the basis of what Jesus already did for us!

4. SURRENDER TO JESUS CHRIST TO COME INTO YOUR LIFE AND BE THE DIRECTOR (“LORD”) OF YOUR
LIFE. ONCE YOU FEEL GOD’S CALL ON YOUR LIFE, STEP INTO THAT CALLING!

“To all who receive Him, He gives the right to become children of God. All we need to do is to trust Him to save us.
All those who believe this are reborn! — not a physical rebirth...but from the will of God!” John 1:12-13

“Jesus says, ‘Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in...’”
Revelation 3:30

IF YOU DO NOT KNOW JESUS AS YOUR LORD & SAVIOR; PRAY, TALK TO HIM, HE IS CLOSER THAN YOU KNOW.
“The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); 9 because,
if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead,
you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is
saved. 11 For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” Romans 10:8-11

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 THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING BAPTIZED

I. WHY SHOULD I BE BAPTIZED?

1. TO FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE SET BY JESUS
“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river.” Mark 1:9

2. BECAUSE CHRIST COMMANDS IT.

“Jesus said, ‘Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father,
the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and then teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.’” Matthew 28:19-20

3. IT DEMONSTRATES THAT I REALLY AM A BELIEVER

“...many of the people who heard Him believed and were baptized.” Acts 18:8
“We know that we have come to know Him, if we obey His commands.” 1 John 2:3

II. WHAT IS THE MEANING OF BAPTISM?

1. IT ILLUSTRATES CHRIST’S DEATH AND RESURRECTION

“Christ died for our sins... He was buried...and He rose again.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
“For when you are baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ.
Colossians 2:12

2. IT ILLUSTRATES MY NEW LIFE AS A CHRISTIAN.

“When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a
new life has begun!” 2 Corinthians 5:17
“By our baptism then, we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from
the dead...so also we may live a new life!” Romans 6:4

Baptism doesn’t make you a believer — it shows that you already believe. Baptism does not “save” you, only faith
in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring — it’s the outer symbol of the internal commitment.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith...it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can
boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

III. WHY BE BAPTIZED BY IMMERSION?

BECAUSE JESUS WAS BAPTIZED THAT WAY.
“As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water.” Matthew 3:16

EVERY BAPTISM IN THE BIBLE WAS BY IMMERSION.

(Example) “...then both Philip and the man went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up
out of the water...” Acts 8:38-39

THE WORD “BAPTIZE” MEANS TO IMMERSE UNDER WATER”.

Just as the Greek word baptizo means, “to immerse or dip under water”.

IT BEST SYMBOLIZES A BURIAL AND RESURRECTION!

Martin Luther...“I would have those who are to be baptized to be entirely immersed, as the word imports and the
mystery signifies.”
John Calvin...“The word ‘baptize’ signifies to immerse. It is certain that immersion was the practice of the ancient
church.”
John Wesley...“Buried with Him, alludes to baptizing by immersion according to the custom of the first church.”

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 IV. WHO SHOULD BE BAPTIZED?

EVERY PERSON WHO HAS BELIEVED IN CHRIST.

“Those who believed and accepted His message were baptized...” Acts 2:41

“Simon himself believed and was baptized...” Acts 8:13

“But when they believed Philippians as he preached the Good News...and the name of Jesus Christ, they were
baptized, both men and women.” Acts 8:12

At Life Church, we wait until our children are at the age of accountability and understand the true meaning of
baptism before we baptize them.

Some churches practice a “baptism of confirmation” for children. This ceremony is intended to be a covenant
between the parents and God on the behalf of the child. The parents promise to raise their child in the faith until the
child is old enough to make his own personal confession of Christ. This custom began about 300 years after the
Bible was completed. This is different from the baptism talked about in the Bible, which was only for those old
enough to believe. The purpose is to publicly confess your personal commitment to Christ.

At Life Church, it is a membership requirement that every member must have been baptized the way Jesus
demonstrated, even though many of us were “confirmed” as children.

V. WHEN SHOULD I BE BAPTIZED?

AS SOON AS YOU HAVE BELIEVED!

“Those who believed...were baptized...that day!” Acts 2:41

“Then Philippians began with the scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus. As they traveled along the
road, they came to some water, and the man said, ‘Look, here is water! Why shouldn’t I be baptized right now?’
Philippians said, ‘If you believe with all your heart, you may.’ The man answered, ‘I believe that Jesus Christ is the
Son of God.’ So they went down into the water and Philippians baptized him.” Acts 8:35-38

There is no reason to delay. As soon as you have decided to receive Christ into your life, you can and should be
baptized. If you wait until you are “perfect”, you’ll never feel “good enough”!

CAN MY FAMILY BE BAPTIZED TOGETHER?

Yes! If each family member understands fully the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her
trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of
commitment. Young children who wish to be baptized are asked to meet with our leadership along with parents or
the guardian for a pre-baptism conversation.

However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family tradition. It is
usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting on other family members to accept Christ, particularly
children. This puts an undue pressure on them, and delays your obedience. Jesus never asked His disciples to
remember His birth. But He did instruct them to remember His death and resurrection. He gave the church two
visible symbols (called “ordinances”) as reminders of His death. These two ordinances are: Baptism and The Lord’s
Supper. The Lord’s Supper is an object lesson that represents a great spiritual truth for believers.

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 THE MEANING OF THE LORD’S SUPPER

I. WHAT IS THE LORD’S SUPPER? (1 CORINTHIANS 11:23-26)

1. IT IS A SIMPLE ACT “The Lord Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread..” vs. 23

2. IT IS A REMINDER “...and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for
you; eat it in remembrance of me.’” (vs. 24)

3. IT IS A SYMBOL “In the same way, He took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood;
drink it to remember me.’” (vs. 25)

4. IT IS A STATEMENT OF FAITH “For whenever you eat the bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the
Lord’s death until He comes back.”vs. 26

II. WHO SHOULD TAKE THE LORD’S SUPPER?

Only those who are already BELIEVERS (Mark 14:22-26) “For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing
the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment upon himself.” 2 Corinthians 11:29

III. HOW DO I PREPARE MYSELF FOR THE LORD’S SUPPER?

“Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning
against the body and blood of the Lord. A person ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of
the cup.” 1 Corinthians 11:27-28

By...

1. Self-Examination 2. Confessing My Sins

1 Corinthians 11:27 1 John 1:9

3. Recommitment 4. Restoring Relationships

Romans 12:1 Matthew 5:23-24

IV. WHEN AND HOW OFTEN SHOULD WE OBSERVE THE LORD’S SUPPER?

Jesus never said when or how often believers should observe The Lord’s Supper. He simply said as often as you eat
and drink… although we commune with the Lord everyday, we at Life Church have communion once a month.
Communion would also happen in small groups and in specific gatherings.

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 OUR AFFILIATION

Life Church was a church plant from Parkview Church in 1992

CHRISTIAN LIFE CHURCH
A Brief History

In April 1992, Southside Church family members began mid-week meetings at Kortright Presbyterian Church.
In May 1992, Rev. John Haward accepted an invitation to be the first pastor of Southside Christian Assembly.
On July 7, 1992, during the morning service at Guelph’s Parkview Church, fifteen families were blessed and commissioned
to go out and establish a new work by the Parkview Pastor and people. That evening, the first official service of Southside
Christian Assembly was held at the Holiday Inn. Fifteen families attended that first service ( 44 adults and 15 children).
THOUGH OFFICIALLY SOUTHSIDE WAS A “DEVELOPING ASSEMBLY”, FROM THE VERY FIRST IT WAS
FINANCIALLY SELF-SUPPORTING. SUNDAY SCHOOL AND YOUTH PROGRAMS BEGAN IN FALL OF 1992.
VOLUNTEERS CONSISTING OF GRAD STUDENTS HELPED LEAD THE YOUTH.
In January 1995, Gerry Schinkel was hired as Assistant Pastor and was responsible for church programs. Children’s musicals
had great participation and support. Vacation Bible School began and was very successful. In May 1995, Southside had a
peak attendance (130 adults and 45 children). In Sept. 1997 Rev. Paul Carroll became the Senior Pastor of Southside
Church In 1998 Southside moved into a co-habitation with Priory Park Baptist Church (behind the Holiday Inn)
Southside moved from Priory Park Baptist Church to College Heights Secondary Church under the leadership of
Paul Carroll. In April 30 2006 Pastor Paul Carroll concluded as Senior Pastor. Attendance had declined from its
peak in 1995 as the church was without a pastor for 18 months. Under interim leadership the church numbers
diminished to 23 people. In February 2007 Pastor David W. Forrest became the senior pastor. Upon his arrival the
congregation was simply the board of deacons and a few adherents. Southside Church moved to the Holiday Inn on
Scottsdale Drive under the leadership and gained some stability under Pastor Forrest. In March 2012 Southside
moved to it’s own full time facility for the first time ever and changed its name to Christian Life Church.

WHAT IS THE PAOC?

• The “PAOC” is the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada.
Christian Life Church is affiliated with the PAOC by choice we choose to submit to it’s headship and authority. The
PAOC has an affiliation of 1084 churches across Canada, 3551 credential holders and 352 missionary personnel.
The PAOC is also affiliated with the “Assemblies of God” in the United States of America.
• The PAOC hold’s Local District Conferences & National Conferences.
Life Church is affiliated with the Western District of the PAOC, local area conference is in the Burlington area.
• The PAOC locally, pod groups & sectionals
Life Church is connected to pastoral “pod” groups as well sectional meetings where pastors gather to talk through
strategy and process concepts of ministry.
* For more on the PAOC, visit www.paoc.org, for our local fellowship (The Western Ontario District) visit
www.wod.paoc.org

WHY NOT JUST BE AN INDEPENDENT CHURCH?

We are an independent church! Every PAOC church is completely independent. Each church is self-governed and
determines its own affairs.
• Every PAOC church chooses its own pastor
• Every PAOC church owns its own buildings and assets
• Every PAOC church determines its own programs

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF AFFILIATING WITH THE PAOC?

1. It allows us to identify with other Christians around the world who are known for their commitment to the
Bible. The Bible is our only authority.
2. It allows our church to participate in a fellowship of churches and be part of a bigger picture. Through the
PAOC we help support local churches and missionaries in countries around the world.

3. It helps us to function in our structure and working within a local church constitution.
4. PAOC helps us with legalities, policies, procedures and constitutions.

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 WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A MEMBER

The difference between “attendees” and “members” can be summed up in one word: COMMITMENT

At Life Church we recognize the need for a formal membership – here are four reasons why:

I. A BIBLICAL REASON:
CHRIST IS COMMITTED TO THE CHURCH

“...Christ loved the church, and he gave his life for it.” Ephesians 5:25

II. A CULTURAL REASON:

IT IS AN ANTIDOTE TO OUR SOCIETY

We live in an age where very few want to be committed to anything...a job...a marriage...our country. This attitude
has even produced a generation of “church shoppers and hoppers”. Membership swims against the current of
America’s “consumer religion.”
It’s an unselfish decision. Commitment always builds character.

III. A PRACTICAL REASON:

IT DEFINES WHO CAN BE COUNTED ON

Every team must have a roster. Every school must have an enrolment. Every business has a payroll. Every army
has an enlistment. Even our country takes a census and requires voter registration. Membership identifies our family.

IV. A PERSONAL REASON:

IT PRODUCES SPIRITUAL GROWTH

The New Testament places a major emphasis on the need for Christians to be accountable to each other for spiritual
growth. You cannot be accountable when you’re not committed to any specific church family.

WHAT IS EXPECTED OF ME AS A MEMBER?

At Life Church we never ask our members to do more than the Bible clearly teaches. We only expect our members
to do what the Bible expects every Christian to do. These responsibilities are spelled out in the Membership
Covenant.

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 THE LIFE CHURCH MEMBERSHIP COMMITMENT

“Having received Christ as my Lord and Savior, been baptized in water, and being in agreement with
Christian Life Church’s statements, strategy and structure, I now feel led by the Holy Spirit to become a
member of the “Christian Life Church” family. I have read or listened through the CLASS 101 materials.
I commit myself to God and to the other members to do the following:

I. I WILL PROTECT THE UNITY OF MY CHURCH INITIAL

By acting in love toward other members ......................................By refusing to gossip.

By refusing to be offended ... ................................................By following the leaders.
“So let us concentrate on the things which make for harmony, and on the growth of our fellowship together.”
Romans. 15:19 “Live in complete harmony with each other — each with the attitude of Christ toward each other.”
Romans 15:5 “Have a sincere love for your fellow believers, love one another earnestly with all your hearts.”1
Peter 1:22 “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of our mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up
according to their needs...” Ephesians. 4:29 “Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch
over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would
be no advantage to you.” Hebrews 13:17

II. I WILL SHARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF MY CHURCH INITIAL

By praying for its growth. By inviting the un-churched to attend. By warmly welcoming guests
“To the church...we always thank God for you and pray for you constantly.” 1 Thessalonians 1:2
“Go out into the country...and urge anyone you find to come in, so that My House will be full.” Luke 14:23
“So, warmly welcome each other into the church, just as Christ has warmly welcomed you; then God will be
glorified.” Romans 15:7

III. I WILL SERVE THE MINISTRY OF MY CHURCH INITIAL

By discovering and using my gifts and talents. By being equipped to serve my church and its leadership.
By developing a servant’s heart.
“Serve one another with the particular gifts God has given each of you...” 1 Peter 4:10
“God gave...some to be pastors and teachers to prepare God’s people for works of ministry, so that the body of
Christ may be built up...” Ephesians 4:11-12
“Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be
the same as that of Jesus Christ...who took on the very nature of a servant...” Philippians 2:3-4, 7

IV. I WILL SUPPORT THE TESTIMONY OF MY CHURCH INITIAL

By attending faithfully. By living a godly life. By tithing regularly.

“Let us not give up the habit of meeting together...but let us encourage one another.” Hebrews 10:25
“…what ever happens, make sure that your everyday life is worthy of the gospel of Christ.” Philippians 1:27
“Each one of you, on the first day of each week, should set aside a specific sum of money in proportion to what you
have earned and use it for the offering.” 1 Corinthians 16:2
“A tenth of all you produce is the Lord’s, and it is holy.” Leviticus 2

_________________________ ______________________________________ ____________________

NAME SIGNATURE DATE

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 I WOULD LIKE TO BECOME A MEMBER OF

GUELPH CHRISTIAN LIFE CHURCH

Name_____________________________________ Date________________2020
Month/Day
Address___________________________________________________________

Home Phone____________________________ Cell Phone_______________________________

Sex_______(M/F) Date of Birth_____/_______/_______
Month Day Year
o Single o Married o Widowed o Divorced

My occupation ______________________________________________
I have the following expertise, or enjoy doing,… ___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________

I have not been active in a church for ____1 yrs____5 yrs____10 yrs +. ___ I have never been active in a church.
Or I have been active in the following church in the past.
Year(s) Involved Name of Church City Pastor
___________________________________________________________________________________________
How I was involved.__________________________________________________________________________
How would you see yourself getting involved here at Christian Life Church?
Children/ Nursery Youth University Women Men. Seniors Guest Reception
Community Connections Tech/ Sound. Music. Fellowship Cleaning Facilities
I would be willing to help out and get involved in an area of need within my church .
I have an idea about a way I could encourage the growth of my church.___________________________________

How would you describe your relationship to Christ Jesus?

o Seeker/curious o I’m not sure what I believe. o I feel I am firm in my beliefs.
o New Christian o Committed Christian. o I have read the Bible. o I started a Bible Reading plan.
o I have been water baptized according to Scripture. o I would like to be water baptized.
o I’ve been a Christian for a while, but I need to grow closer.
Other information you feel applies: ________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
INFORMATION OF FAMILY MEMBER(S)
Spouse’s Name: ___________________________________________. Date of Birth____________________.
Does your spouse attend ?____________________________________ Month Day Year
Children:
First Name Last Name Birth Date Lives w/You? Attends Church
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________

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____________________________________________________________________________________________

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