JOIN
Interested in joining Anchor Church?
Start with a definition.
What is a church? It’s not a building with a steeple; it’s the people. The Church (capital “C”) is the family of God– all those who have been redeemed throughout all time. When most people talk about church, they mean little “C” church, or the local church. There are several metaphors in the Bible for the local church: a body, bride, family, flock, house, temple, and embassy. There is not a place in the Bible that says, “Here is the definition of the church,” but we can develop one by putting together everything the Bible says about it. The local church is a group of Christians that regularly gather to proclaim the Gospel, affirm one another by the ordinances (communion and baptism), and live together as the family of God. Simple enough, right?
Read the article on the church from our statement of faith here.
A New Testament church of the Lord Jesus Christ is an autonomous local congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the gospel; observing the two ordinances of Christ, governed by His laws, exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His Word, and seeking to extend the gospel to the ends of the earth. Each congregation operates under the Lordship of Christ through democratic processes. In such a congregation each member is responsible and accountable to Christ as Lord. Its scriptural officers are pastors and deacons. While both men and women are gifted for service in the church, the office of pastor is limited to men as qualified by Scripture.
The New Testament speaks also of the church as the Body of Christ which includes all of the redeemed of all the ages, believers from every tribe, and tongue, and people, and nation.
From the Baptist Faith and Message 2000, Article VI
Why join a local church?
Can’t someone be godly by reading the Bible, praying, and listening to podcasts? We are called to study God’s Word, pray, and accept good teaching. All throughout the New Testament, though, spiritual growth and the mission of God is connected to the local church. In fact, most of the books in the second half of the Bible are written to churches, pastors of churches, or individuals in the local church, and all the books were intended to be read and taught in the local church. We can’t escape the corporate nature of our faith as we read through the Bible.
Listen to a lesson on the church here.
How do I join Anchor Church?
Joining Anchor Church as a Partner (also called member) requires a few simple steps. First, you must be a Christian. If you have not put your faith in Jesus, today’s the day! Second, you should be baptized. Baptism is commanded by Jesus and should be obeyed by every Christian. Third, attend a Discover Anchor class, where you will learn about the church. These classes are held periodically throughout the year. Fourth, if you want to join the Anchor Church family attend the Join Anchor class, which is also held regularly. This class will go deeper into the identity of Anchor Church. At the end of the session, you will be given an opportunity to take the last step. Step five is to join the church by acknowledging the Partnership Agreement. Click one of the buttons below to take your next step.