This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
; ; , 15, 27; ). Practicing local church membership is one way we “be imitators of God” (Eph. ). Maybe this is one reason the early church practiced it, too (Acts ).
The local church grows when we love one another (Ephesians -16). The local church is where we use our gifts to God's glory (1 Corinthians -31). The local church is designed to be the place where we regularly worship (Hebrews ). The local church helps to restore us when we are broken (Galatians -3).
Although Scripture does not contain an explicit command to formally join a local church, the biblical foundation for church membership permeates the New Testament.
Hebrews says, “Obey your leaders, and submit to them.” The question for each believer is, “Who are your leaders?” The one who has refused to join a local church and entrust himself to the care and the authority of the elders has no leaders. For that person, obedience to Hebrews is impossible.
There are other evidences to support local church membership in the Scriptures. We see in Acts -47 that there is a numerical record of those who have professed Christ and been filled with the Holy Spirit (v. 41) and an acknowledgement that the church was tracking the growth (v. 47).
The word of God places no requirements on stipulations how a Christian joins a specific body of believers, other than professing faith in Jesus Christ and taking water baptism by immersion.
Set up a time to talk directly to one of the pastors of your church about your leaving. This is a key step in leaving a church well. You don't need to share all of your reasons or rationale, but as a matter of love and courtesy, let your pastor know you and your family have chosen to go to another church.
A withdrawal is a unilateral and unfounded breaking with the church of which one is a member. One simply resigns, either by telling the ward elders or by writing a letter to the consistory. A church may for a while make no announcement regarding the withdrawal, but in time an announcement will be made.
Communicate Personally and Respectfully Before you write a resignation letter, it's important to communicate your decision personally and respectfully to the leader or pastor you report to. Explain your reasons honestly but kindly, emphasizing that this decision is about what's best for both you and the church.
We want to send a quick text or email saying, “Adios” or, even more common, just disappear into the wind. Communicating that you are transitioning away gives clarity, even if it's a hard conversation, and also allows for healthy discussion on why you might be leaving.