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Discovering Church
Membership
Welcome to
Discovering Church Membership
We are so glad you have chosen to find out more about membership at
New Home Baptist Church (NHBC)! This class is the basic introduction to
our church family, but also serves as the first step towards membership.
Since people come to NHBC from different churches and backgrounds,
this class was designed to clearly explain who we are, what we believe,
and where we are going as a church.
The Goal of this Class
That I will commit myself to JESUS CHRIST and to the CHURCH family.
Welcome
Session One Our Story: Where We’ve Been
For where two or three are gathered together in
my name, there am I in the midst of them.
- Matthew 18:20
Discovering Church Membership
Session 1: Our Story
What is “The Church”?
The Nature of the Church1
The church is the body of people called by God’s grace
through faith in Christ to glorify Him together by serving Him in
His world.
The church is the people of God, the new creation, the bride of
Christ, the fellowship, the body of Christ, and the family of God.
Mission and Purpose of the Church
The body of Christ exists for the purposes of worshiping God,
edifying the church, and spreading the Gospel throughout the
world.
The church ultimately exists for the glory of God. The church is
the unique instrument for bringing God such glory.
The Attributes of the Church
We are to be:
• A people, not a place.
• A people, not a group of statistics.
• A people, not a vendor of religious goods and services.
• A people, not a venue for entertainment.
• A people distinct from those who are not embracing Christ
as Savior and Lord.
• A people who yearn to protect and promote the name
of Jesus Christ.
“. . . I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail
against it.
- Matthew 16:18
Note: Items in Sidebars
are for further study or
thought.
Look at scripture and what
it says about the church
and its attributes.
Consider the Old Testament:
• Ezekiel 36:26-27
• Jeremiah 31:31-34
• Isaiah 48:9-11
• Zephaniah 3:14-20
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Source: Adapted from Dever,
M. (n.d.) An Introduction to
the Church. Downloaded
11/29/16 from
www.theologynetwork.org/
the-church/an-introduction-to
-the-church.htm
Based on these passages,
how would you summarize
God’s motivation for acting
on behalf of His people, His
purpose in saving them?
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Core Values
So, as the Church, we are displaying the following:
God’s WISDOM—
“To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in
heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold
wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which he
purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
— Ephesians 3:10-11
God’s LOVE—
“I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have
loved you, you must also love one another. By this all people
will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one an-
other.”
— John 13:34-35
God’s ONENESS—
“I pray not only for these, but also for those who believe in Me
through their message. May they all be one, as You, Father, are
in Me and I am in You. May they also be one in Us, so the world
may believe You sent Me. I have given them the glory You
have given Me. May they be one as We are one. I am in them
and You are in Me. May they be made completely one, so the
world may know You have sent Me and have loved them as
You have loved Me.”
— John 17:20-23
What commandment does
Jesus give His disciples in this
passage?
How does the unity of a local
church display God’s glory?
What are common reasons
people “go” to church? Accord-
ing to these passages, why
should we want to be a part of
Christ’s church?
For a good summary of
what the church is sup-
posed to look like, see
Ephesians 4:1-16.
Discovering Church Membership
Session 1: Our Story
Our Story:
Our Beginning
God laid it on the heart of Mr. W.O. Williams to establish a new
church to spread the gospel. In 1941. Mr. and Mrs. W.O. Williams
donated some property and built a wooden structure dedicat-
ed to worship. The building was 30′ by 40′ and was furnished
with a piano, pews, hymnals, and a heater. The building was
completed in September 1941.
The church met for business each week in October to establish
policies and procedures. Some of those included; the church
would have preaching service every Sunday and Sunday
School at 10:30 AM. The church also began holding Prayer
Meeting each Wednesday.
A Growing Church
In 1949 the church had grown to 268 members with a Sunday
School enrollment of 134. During the first 8 years the church had
baptized 134. The church had also added onto its property and
built a new sanctuary. That building still stands today and
houses our fellowship hall.
The current sanctuary was occupied in 1962. New Home Baptist
Church sponsored the Paradise Mission that year. The mission
was later constituted as Shady Grove Baptist Church.
In 1985 the church called Bro. Bill Jenkins as pastor. The church
also voted to build the Family Life Center that year. Bro. Bill
Jenkins would continue to serve at New Home Baptist for 17
years.
Continuing Journey
Today Bro. Jeff Stading serves as our pastor as continues to
preach the Word of God. The church has active ministries to
reach and teach all ages. Specific ministries have come and
gone and many changes have been made since 1941, but the
message of God’s love and His gift of eternal life through faith
in Jesus Christ has not changed.
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OUR AFFILIATIONS
New Home Baptist Church is an autonomous church. It is
completely independent of any denominational control or
hierarchy. We are self-governed -- we determine our own af-
fairs. We choose our own pastor. We are able to purchase
property and own assets. We determine our own programs and
ministries.
We have chosen, though, to affiliate with the following groups:
1. Taylor Baptist Association — This organization is comprised of
approximately 16 churches in Taylor County. These churches
work together to impact our county for Jesus Christ.
2. Florida Baptist Convention — This organization’s offices are
based in Jacksonville and about 3,148 churches are affiliated
with this group.
3. The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) has offices in Nashville,
Tennessee. There are nearly 50,000 churches that are affiliated
with the SBC and coordinate together in a worldwide effort for
missions. Other interesting facts about the SBC:
• It is the largest association of Christian churches in
America. One out of every 10 churches in America is
affiliated with the SBC with 16 million members — more than
most other denominations combined.
• It is the most diverse association of churches. SBC church-
es include every race, nationality, and ethnic group. Each
Sunday, services are held in over 80 languages in the U.S.
One out of every three African Americans in the U.S. is a
Southern Baptist.
• It is one of the fastest growing groups. Southern Baptist
churches baptized 349,737 people in the U.S. and 506,019
people overseas in the last year of record. This averages
about one baptism every 35 seconds. They begin nearly four new churches a day!
Discovering Church Membership
Session 1: Our Story
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OUR STRUCTURE At New Home Baptist Church, we have a simple structure so we
can maximize ministry and minimize maintenance.
“ And He personally gave some to be apostles, some prophets,
some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, for the training of
the saints in the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ,”
—Ephesians 4:11-12
Our Organizational Structure is
NHBC is :
• Pastor led– the pastor casts the vision of the church
• Deacon served— the deacons partner with the pastor and
each other to care for the congregation
• Council Coordinated– the church council coordinates the
church’s schedule of activities, special events, and use of
facilities.
Leadership Team
Pastor/Staff
Discovering Church Membership
Pastor
Jeff Stading
Senior Pastor
Pastoral Staff
Rick Patrick
Director of Music and Youth Ministries
Lynn Davis
Director of Preschool Ministry
Support Staff
Pattie Eakins
Administrative Assistant
Jim Greist
Church Custodian
Amy Sadler
Family Life Center Custodian
OUR STAFF __________________________________
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Session 2: Our Salvation
Session Two Our Salvation: Who We Are in Christ
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ
have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there
is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female:
for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
- Galatians 3:26
The
Purpose
The
Plan
The
Problem
Our
Part
THE PURPOSE
God made me to love me!
God says, “Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love:
therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.”
— Jeremiah 31:3
“For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our
Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto
the knowledge of the truth.”
— 1 Timothy 2:3-4
We were created to enjoy a personal relationship with God
and to manage all the rest of God’s creation! This makes us
special!
Genesis 1:26-30: God created man/stewardship of creation.
Genesis 2:18-23: God created woman.
Genesis 3:8: God walked with Adam and Eve in the garden.
God did all of this that we might experience life as it was meant
to be, in perfect relationship to Him and His creation.
Jesus said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they
might have it more abundantly..” — John10:10b
THE PROBLEM
Man has a natural desire to be the ruler of his own life and to
ignore God’s principles for living.
Genesis 2:15-17: God’s prohibition against eating of the Tree of
knowledge – leads to death.
Genesis 3:1-7: Temptation of the serpent and Adam and Eve’s
choice to sin against God.
Immediate recognition of fear of God and their sinful humanity.
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Discovering Church Membership
Session 2: Our Salvation
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The Bible calls this attitude sin. We have all sinned!
“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one
to his own way”
— Isaiah 53:6a
“But your iniquities have separated between you and your
God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not
hear.”
— Isaiah 59:2
People often try many different ways of coping before turning to
God. Unfortunately, these things do not fix the real problem:
• Religion
• Good Deeds or Works
• Sincerity of Belief in Anything
• Family
How would you
define sin?
What is the effect
of sin?
Discovering Church Membership
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THE PLAN
Because God loves us, He desires a relationship with us, but our
sin has broken that relationship.
There is nothing we can do to restore that relationship, but God
can and He did by sending His son, Jesus Christ.
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life
through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
— Romans 6:23
God Himself came to earth in the person of Jesus Christ to bring
us back to Himself. Jesus:
• lived the life we couldn’t live.
• died the death we deserved.
• rose from the grave to show His power over sin and death.
“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who,
being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal
with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon
him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of
men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled him-
self, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the
cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given
him a name which is above every name: That at the name of
Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in
earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue
should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the
Father.”
— Phil. 2:5-11
If any other way could have worked, Jesus Christ would not
have had to come. The way is a Person!
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no
man cometh unto the Father, but by me.’”
— John 14:6 God did this for us because He loves us and wants us to have a
relationship with Him.
“ But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we
were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
— Rom. 5:8
“For there is one God, and one mediator between God and
men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all”
— 1 Timothy 2:5-6a
Session 2: Our Salvation
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OUR PART
1. Admit that you have sinned and that you are dead in your
sin. Ask God to forgive your sins.
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
— Romans 3:23
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins
and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
— 1 John 1:9
2. Believe that Jesus died to pay for your sins, that He rose
again, and is alive today. Accept God’s free gift of salvation.
Don’t try to earn it.
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal
life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
— Romans 6:23
“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and
shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the
dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth
unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made un-
to salvation.”
—Romans 10:9-10
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of your-
selves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should
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!
3. Turn from yourself and your sin, and turn to Christ.
“ ...Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.”
— Luke 13:3
“ . . . Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the king-
dom of God, And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom
of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.’”
— Mark 1:14-15
This involves letting go of myself as the ruler of my life, and now
trusting Christ as my life’s ruler and savior.
4. Trust in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord of your life.
“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to be-
come the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name”
— John 1:12
Discovering Church Membership
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“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my
voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with
him, and he with me.”
— Rev. 3:20
“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be
saved.”
— Romans 10:13
RECAP - PURPOSE, PROBLEM, PLAN, OUR PART You can take these steps by praying a simple, sincere prayer of
commitment to God. While there is no specific “formula” for
what you need to say to God, you may pray something like this:
“Dear Jesus, thank you for making me and loving me, even
when I’ve ignored you and gone my own way. I realize I am a
sinner and there is nothing I can do to save myself. I need you in
my life. I’m sorry for my sins. I ask you to forgive me and become
my Lord and Savior. Thank you for dying on the cross for me and
forgiving me. Please help me to understand more about you.
With your help, I want to follow you from now on. Please come
into my life and make me a new person inside. I am trusting you
completely for salvation and eternal life. Thank you for saving
me.”
What Comes Next After Becoming a Christ Follower?
First, you should celebrate! You are now a child of God!
“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to be-
come the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:”
— John 1:12
The
Purpose
The
Plan
The
Problem
Our
Part
Session 2: Our Salvation
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2 Source: Adapted from Jamieson, B.
(2016). Understanding of Baptism. Nash-
ville: BJH.
Second, you should remember.
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 sacrifice and our new life. These two ordinances
are Baptism and the Lord’s Supper.
THE ORDINANCES OF OUR CHURCH
What is the difference between an ordinance and a
sacrament?
Ordinance - an outward rite commanded by Christ to be
observed by His church.
versus
Sacrament - an act believed to convey grace (divine power) to
the participants.
What the Bible Says About Believer’s
Baptism
Believer’s Baptism, as we teach it here at NHBC, is not the
creation of the church, or of Baptists, or of NHBC, but it is Biblical
baptism. So what can we learn from the Bible about baptism?
Why Should I Be Biblically Baptized?2
To follow the example set by Jesus.
“And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Naza-
reth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And
straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens
opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:”
—Mark 1:9-10
If Jesus was perfect,
why was He
baptized?
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Because Christ commands it.
“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is
given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and
teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and
of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all
things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with
you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.’”
— Matthew 28:18-20
It demonstrates that I really am a believer.
“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart,
and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and
brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent,
and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ
for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy
Ghost. . . Then they that gladly received his word were bap-
tized: and the same day there were added unto them about
three thousand souls.”
—Acts 2:37-38, 41
“But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning
the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were
baptized, both men and women.”
— Acts 8:12
It is an act of obedience to God.
“And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his
commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his
commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso
keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected:
hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in
him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.”
— 1 John 2:3-6
What is the Meaning of Believer’s Baptism?
It illustrates Christ’s death and resurrection.
“For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received,
how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And
that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day
according to the scriptures:”
— 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
“Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him
through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him
from the dead.”
— Col. 2:12
Session 2: Our Salvation
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It illustrates my new life as a Christian.
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old
things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
— 2 Corinthians 5:17
“How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus
Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried
with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up
from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also
should walk in newness of life.”
— Romans 6:2-4
It is a symbol of our belief.
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of
yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should
boast.”
— Ephesians 2:8-9
Why Should I be Baptized by Immersion?
Because Jesus was baptized that way.
“And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from
Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And
straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens
opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:”
— Mark 1:9-10
Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion.
“And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went
down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he
baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water,
the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw
him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.”
—Acts 8:38-39
The word “Baptize” means to dip under water.
The Greek word baptizo means “to immerse or dip under
water.”
It best symbolizes a burial and resurrection!
“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that
like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the
Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
— Romans 6:4
In what way is baptism
like a wedding ring?
Discovering Church Membership
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Who Should be Baptized?
Every person who has believed in Christ and trusted Him for sal-
vation.
“Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the
same day there were added unto them about three thousand
souls”
— Acts 2:41
“Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized,
he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles
and signs which were done.”
— Acts 8:13
When Should I be Baptized?
As soon as you have put your faith in Jesus Christ!
“Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same
scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. And as they went on
their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch
said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest.
And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son
of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they
went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch;
and he baptized him.”
— Acts 8:35-38
Session 2: Our Salvation
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A Few Other Questions About Believer’s Baptism
What about children and baptism?
Every person who has believed and trusted in Christ should be
baptized after their salvation. At NHBC, we wait until our children
are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of
baptism before we baptize them.
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.
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.
What should I wear when I am baptized?
We will provide a white baptismal robe for your baptism. Bring
lighter clothing to wear under the robe that you don’t mind
getting wet. Also, bring a change of clothes and a plastic bag
for your wet items. We provide changing rooms, towels, and a
blow dryer.
Do I have to be baptized by the pastor?
No. We will gladly baptize you if asked or requested. However, if
there is a deacon inside our church who was instrumental in you
coming to faith, we invite them to baptize you within the body
of the church.
Will I have to say anything during my baptism?
Yes (but not much)! When asked, “Have you placed you faith in
Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?” You respond with an
affirmative answer. This could be as simple as saying, “Yes.” or
you may share a short testimony of how you came to trust Jesus
as your Lord and Savior.
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How will the baptism proceed?
We will help you prepare in our Baptistry area before the
Worship Service begins. When it is time, the person baptizing you
will enter the water and briefly explain the meaning of baptism.
You will wait at the edge of the pool for your turn to be
baptized. The baptizing person will introduce you, ask you to
profess your faith in Christ, briefly lower you just under the water,
and then you can leave the pool, dry off, and change, or
watch the others be baptized.
Can I invite my friends and family?
Yes! We encourage you to invite them. This should be a time of
celebration and a time for you to pronounce your faith in Jesus
Christ to the church and those closest to you.
Can I be baptized on a Wednesday Night?
Yes, if Sunday mornings cannot work for your schedule. We
meet together in the worship center on Wednesday nights
Can I be baptized outside of the church?
Yes. But we do believe the Bible is clear that baptism is to be a
function and ministry of the church, so we discourage private or
family baptisms without at least part of the church present to
affirm and encourage you.
Do I have to be Biblically baptized in order to be a member of
NHBC?
Yes. At NHBC, it is a membership requirement that every
member must have been baptized the way Jesus
demonstrated. At the end of this class, we will give you time one
-on-one to ask any questions or set up baptism for anyone who
desires Biblical believer’s baptism.
What if I was baptized when I was young and did not really
understand what I was doing?
A previous baptism is only invalid if it failed to be either of the
following: (1) believers baptism or (2) by immersion. You may
have developed a better understanding of baptism but as long
as you were trusting in Christ alone for salvation than your
previous baptism is sufficient. Baptism by sprinkling or pouring is
not recognized as it is not the Biblical mode.
Session 2: Our Salvation
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What the Bible Says
about the Lord’s Supper
The Lord’s Supper is an object lesson that represents the histori-
cal event which brought us eternal life.
What is the Lord’s Supper?
(1 Cor. 11:23-26)
The Lord’s Supper is a simple
act.
“the Lord Jesus the same night in
which he was betrayed took
bread...”
— 1 Corinthians 11:23
The Lord’s Supper is a reminder.
“And when he had given
thanks, he brake it, and said,
Take, eat: this is my body, which
is broken for you: this do in re-
membrance of me.”
— 1 Corinthians 11:24
The Lord’s Supper is a symbol.
“After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had
supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this
do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.’”
— 1 Corinthians 11:25
The Lord’s Supper is a statement of faith.
“For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do
shew the Lord's death till he come.”
—1 Corinthians 11:26
Who Should Take the Lord’s Supper?
Only those who are already believers.
“For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and
drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.”
—1 Corinthians 11:29
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How Often do we Take the Lord’s Supper?
“For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew
the Lord's death till he come.”
— 1 Corinthians 11:26
We typically take the Lord’s Supper once a quarter and at spe-
cial times like Christmas and Easter.
How do I Prepare Myself for the Lord’s Supper?
“Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of
the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the
Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that
bread, and drink of that cup.”
— 1 Corinthians 11:27-28
So we prepare ourselves by . . .
1. Examining Our Hearts.
1 Cor. 11:27
2. Confessing Our Sins.
1 John 1:9
3. Recommitting Our Lives.
Rom. 12:1
4. Restoring Our Relationships.
Matt. 5:23-24
Session Three Our Statements:
Why We Exist as a Church
And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in break-
ing of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders
and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had
all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all
men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the
temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness
and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And
the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
- Acts 2:42-47
Session 3: Our Statements
OUR PURPOSE STATEMENT Why We Exist As a Church
Our Mission: Who We Are
Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness
unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive
from the dead, and your members as instruments of
righteousness unto God.
Romans 6:13
Our Purpose: Why We Exist The reason we exist can be summarized into multiple purpose
statements based on two key scriptures:
The Great Commandment: “Master, which is the great
commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love
the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and
with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And
the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as
thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the
prophets.’”
— Matthew 22:36-40
The Great Commission: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and
of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatso-
ever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway,
even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
— Matthew 28:19-20
Drawing from these two passages, New Home Baptist Church
exists . . .
I. To “Love the Lord your God. . .”, to CONNECT with God
through worship;
II. To “Love your neighbor as yourself”, to SERVE the local and
community church, and the community through ministry;
III. To “GO. . .and make disciples of all nations” through evan-
gelism (local) and missions (cross-culturally);
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Why is it important to
have a clear vision and
purpose as a church?
Presenting ourselves to God
as instruments of His grace
Session 3: Our Statements
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IV. To “Baptize...”, to CONNECT with other Christ-followers
through fellowship; and
V. To “Teach them...”, to GROW in your faith through personal
and relational discipleship.
“I am with you always” reminds us that none of this can be
accomplished without the power of Christ.
Acts 2:42 - 47 describes the first Christians and how they built
their Church on these five principles!
What the Bible Says About our five Purposes (and
How We Express Them as the Church)
I. We Exist to CONNECT with God Through Worship
WORSHIP: EXPRESSING LOVE TO GOD AND CELEBRATING HIS
PRESENCE
”Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy
heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first
and great commandment.’”
— Matthew 22:37-38
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What is Worship?3
Worship is the state of our heart and its affections. If our hearts
are focused on loving God, then from the overflow of our heart’s
affections come the many expressions of worship exemplified in
the Bible.
Expressions of Worship:
• Singing (Eph. 5:19)
• Hearing the Word (John 17:17)
• Praying (Ps. 95:6)
• Meditating (Hab. 2:20)
• Serving (Ps. 100:2)
• Giving (1 Cor. 16:1-2)
• Baptism (Romans 6:3-4)
• Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 11-23-26)
• Commitment (Romans 12:1-2)
We express this as a church in the following ways:
• In our corporate worship services at New Home, the Worship
Ministry exists to exalt the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
• Every week we seek to prepare ourselves for a “family style”
time of worship.
• NHBC Worship Service Times:
• Sundays at 11:00 am and 6:00 pm
“Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout
all ages, world without end. Amen.”
— Ephesians 3:21
II. We Exist to CONNECT with Others Through
Fellowship
FELLOWSHIP: YOU WERE FORMED FOR GOD’S FAMILY.
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the
name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. . .”
— Matthew 28:19
“Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but
fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;”
— Ephesians 2:19
Matt. 4:10
John 4:23-24
We express this as a church by believing that:
• Fellowship grows best in the environment of a small group
Bible study class where people can connect and find lasting
friendships.
• Fellowship is a vital part of every Christian’s spiritual
health. Being in a small group is a vital part of being a
member of NHBC.
III. We Exist to GROW in our Faith Through
Personal and Relational Discipleship
DISCIPLESHIP: YOU WERE CREATED TO BECOME LIKE CHRIST.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the
name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. . .”
— Matthew 28:19
“But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of
the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory,
even as by the Spirit of the Lord.”
— 2 Corinthians 3:18
We express this as a church by believing that:
• Discipleship is more than the transferring of knowledge, it is
the transformation of a life.
• Discipleship occurs best in a relational environment of
teaching, accountability and encouragement.
• Discipleship may begin in worship services and Bible
study classes, but is sharpened and intensified by the inti-
macy of small groups of people doing life together.
• Discipleship opportunities at NHBC:
• Sundays at 9:45 a.m. - Small Group Bible Study for all
ages
• Wednesdays at 6:00 for Youth
• Plus various other groups for men, women, and others
throughout the week
Session 3: Our Statements
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Hebrews 6:1
2 Peter 3:18
Hebrews 5:13-14
Eph. 4:11-13
1 Peter 2:1-3
Are you in a small group
Bible study? If no, why not?
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• Discipleship also occurs through personal development of
spiritual disciplines/practices4. These may include:
• Reading and meditating on scripture,
• Prayer,
• Fasting,
• Solitude, and
• Keeping a spiritual journal.
IV. We Exist to SERVE the Local Church and
the Community Through Ministry
MINISTRY: EQUIPPED FOR SERVING GOD
“And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
— Matthew 22:39 (ESV)
We express this as a church by believing that:
• The heartbeat of each member is their ministry.
Every member needs to be a part of one of our ministries!
• Ministry can take place anywhere that you are loving others
and meeting needs in the name of Jesus Christ!
At NHBC:
• Every member is a minister.
• Every task is important.
• Every member was brought here to use their gifts.
“Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there
are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. . .Now ye
are the body of Christ, and members in particular.”
— 1 Cor. 12:4-5, 27
Spiritual gifts may include:
• Encouragement
• Giving
• Administration
• Mercy
• Service
• Teaching
• Evangelism
John 13:34-35
John 15:12-14
1John 3:16-17
Matt. 25:34-40
Hebrews 13:16
Romans 12:13
What spiritual gifts do you
feel have been given to
you?
Eph. 4:1-16
1 Cor. 12
Romans 12
The Bible gives us several lists of possible spiritual gifts; it is not
thought that these lists are inclusive, just descriptive. However,
all spiritual gifts should fit the following criteria:
• Spiritual gifts are not natural talents, but divine abilities
given to help one minister to others.
• They are given by the Holy Spirit, so they are given
only to believers and it is a gift and an
empowerment.
• They are given to every believer.
• They are given for the common good of the body of
Christ.
Spiritual gifts are best discovered while doing ministry.
V. We Exist to GO and Make Disciples
Through Evangelism and Missions
EVANGELISM / MISSIONS: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS WITH
OTHERS HERE AND ALL OVER THE WORLD
“GO therefore and make disciples of all nations . . .”
— Matthew 28:19 (CSB)
Why Our Church and THE Church Must Never Stop
Growing
1. Because God loves all people.
“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men
count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that
any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
— 2 Peter 3:9
2. Because God commands us to reach out.
“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come
upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem,
and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part
of the earth.”
— Acts 1:8
3. Because growth is God’s will.
(Jesus) “I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not
prevail against it.”
— Matthew 16:18b
Session 3: Our Statements
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We express this as a church by:
• intentionally building relationships within our community that
allow us to invite people into our lives to have an opportunity
to share Christ with them.
• intentionally organizing our church to facilitate community
and growth.
• believing our church must grow larger and smaller at the
same time.
“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the
world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end
come.”
— Matt. 24:14
NHBC continues to grow because there are still people who are
LOST!
NHBC is also committed to taking the gospel to the ends of the
earth, and is active in local, state, North American, and
International Missions.
OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH What We Believe
At NHBC, we use The Baptist Faith and Message from the
Southern Baptist Convention as a starting point for what we
believe.
Just like in a family, there are certain things that are
fundamental to our faith. We call these things “the essentials.”
In general, theological issues can be understood by dividing
them into three different tiers:
• Tier I: Fundamental/Essential Issues
• Tier II: Denominational Issues
• Tier III: Church Practices
The Essentials We Believe
1. About God God is the 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.
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Gen. 1:1,26,27; 3:22
Psalm 90:2
Matthew 28:19
1 Peter 1:2
2 Cor. 13:14
Session 3: Our Statements
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2. About Jesus Christ Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He is co-equal with the Father.
Jesus Christ was born of a virgin, 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.
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.
4. About the Bible The Bible is God’s Word to us. It was written by human authors,
under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the
supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living. Because
it is inspired by God, it is the truth without any mixture of error.
When we say it is the supreme source of truth, it means when it
speaks of moral issues, we consider those to be essential truths.
However, we don’t add our personal opinions to the scripture
on issues.
5. 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.
6. About Salvation Salvation is God’s free gift to us but we must accept it. 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. 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.
Matthew 1:22,23
Isaiah 9:6
John 1:1-5; 14:10-30
Hebrews 4:14,15
1 Cor. 15:3,4
Romans 1:3,4
Acts 1:9-11
1 Tim. 6:14-15
Titus 2:13
2 Cor. 3:17
John 16:7-13, 14:16,17
Acts 1:8 1 Cor. 2:12, 3:16
Eph. 1:13; 5:18
Gal. 5:25
2 Tim. 3:16
2 Peter 1:20,21
2 Tim. 1:13 Psalm
119:105,160; 12:6
Proverbs 30:5
Gen. 1:27
Psalm 8:3-6
Isaiah 53:6a
Romans 3:23
Isaiah 59:1,2
Romans 6:23
Eph. 2:8,9
John 14:6, 1:12
Titus 3:5
Gal. 3:26
Romans 5:1
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John 10:29
2 Tim. 1:12
Hebrews 7:25; 10:10,14
1 Peter 1:3-5
7. About Eternal Security Because God gives us eternal life through Jesus Christ, the true
believer is secure in that salvation for eternity. If you have been
genuinely saved, you cannot “lose” it. 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.
8. About Eternity 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.
John 3:16; 14:17
Romans 6:23; 8:17-18
Rev. 20:15
1 Cor. 2:7-9
Session Four Our Strategy:
How We Fulfill our Purpose
(The Apostle Paul) To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am
made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. And this I do for the
gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.
—1 Corinthians 9:22-23
Session 4: Our Strategy
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How did you get connected
to NHBC?
OUR STRATEGY:
DISCIPLE-MAKING PATH
“Go therefore and make disciples.”
• Matthew 28:19 (ESV)
At NHBC, we have developed a path for disciple-making that
incorporates our purpose statements with an intentional process
of helping people grow as disciples of Jesus. This involves
providing intentional entry points to help people CONNECT with
God and other believers, GROW in their faith, SERVE the church,
and GO and make disciples of all nations. Although it is
depicted as linear, it is actually a circular, continual process,
and spiritual transformation is occurring throughout every phase
of the disciple’s path.
The ultimate goal of this disciple-making plan is that we will see
our mission become a reality in the lives of individuals and across
the globe.
How has NHBC helped you
to grow in faith?
Presenting ourselves to God
as instruments of His grace
The Disciple’s Path
With All Your Heart.
Matthew 22:37
CONNECT to God
through worship and
others through
fellowship.
In Body, Mind & Spirit.
Matthew 28:20
GROW in your faith
through personal and
relational discipleship.
With Willing Hands.
Matthew 22:39
SERVE the local
church and
community through
ministry.
With Ready Feet.
Matthew 28:19
GO and make
disciples of all nations
through evangelism
and missions.
Repeat
Process
Session 4: Our Strategy
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Our Mission Field:
From Perry to the Ends of the Earth
From Perry . . .
NHBC is in a great place for growth!
Location: Our church is within 15 minutes of a majority of Taylor
County residents
Visibility: Our campus is centrally located on one of Perry’s
busiest intersections with hundreds of vehicles passing by
everyday
. . . to the Ends of the Earth
New Home Baptist Church takes seriously God’s call on His
people, the church, to be obedient to His command to take
the Gospel of Jesus Christ to our community, our state, our
country and our world.
“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come
upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem,
and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part
of the earth.”
—Acts 1:8
At NHBC, we are committed to praying for missionaries, giving
to support mission activities, and going to the ends of the earth
to make disciples. Here is how you can be a part of supporting
missions:
How far do you drive to get
to NHBC?
Discovering Church Membership
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PRAY
Join us in praying for the missionaries of the International Mission
Board, North American Mission Boards, Florida Baptist Children’s
Homes, Florida Baptist Disaster Relief, Father’s Storehouse, and
the Fellow of Christian Athletes.
GIVE
There are multiple ways you can give to the mission efforts of
NHBC and the organizations NHBC supports.
Budget Giving
Ten percent of every dollar given to NHBC’s budget goes
directly to support Southern Baptist causes. This includes the
Florida Baptist Convention, Southern Baptist Convention,
International Mission Board, North American Mission Board,
Southern Baptist seminaries, etc. By so doing, we help support
5,600 North American missionaries and about 5,500
international missionaries throughout 1,178 people groups.
Direct Giving
You can give directly to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for
International Missions, Florida Baptist Children’s Home Mothers’
Day offering, Annie Armstrong North American Mission Board
offering, Maguire State Missions offering, or other NHBC partners
as needed.
Every member is expected to support NHBC with their time,
talents and tithes.
GO There are multiple ways you can go on missions. There are
opportunities for local missions efforts throughout the year. You
can be trained to serve as part of Southern Baptist Disaster
Relief, or join a short term mission team.
Session Five Your Story:
What it Means to Be a Member
Session 5: Your Story
Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the
same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined
together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
— 1 Corinthians 1:10
Discovering Church Membership
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Why Membership in a Local Church
is Important
The difference between “attenders” and “members” of a local
church can be summed up in one word: commitment.
At NHBC, we recognize the need for a formal membership. We
ask you to commit to membership for four reasons:
I. A Biblical Reason: Christ is Committed to the
Church.
“ . . . Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.”
— Eph. 5:25
“I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail
against it.”
• Matthew 16:18
II. A Cultural Reason: It is an Alternative 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 is an unselfish decision. Commitment always builds
character. The difference between being an ATTENDER and being a MEMBER is like the difference between LIVING TOGETHER
and GETTING MARRIED.
III. A Practical Reason: It Defines Who Can be
Counted on and Cared for. Every team must have a roster. Every school must have an
enrollment. Every business has a payroll. Every army has an
enlistment. Even our country takes a census and requires voter
registration. Membership identifies our family, and families care
for one another.
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.
Why might membership in a
local church be important?
Who Can Become a Member of NHBC
Anyone who has:
1. Made a public profession of having accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior,
and
2. Been baptized by immersion as a believer, or
3. Christians who have already done this at another church of like faith and practice can transfer
their membership or
4. Join by public statement of faith and baptism.
NHBC Member Commitments:
Having trusted Christ as my Lord and Savior and been
baptized, and being in agreement with New Home Baptist Church’s vision, purpose statements,
strategy and structure, I now feel led by the Holy Spirit to unite with this church family. In doing so, I
commit myself to God and to the other members to do the following:
1. The Commitment to connect . . .
is a commitment to CONNECT with CHRIST and THE CHURCH FAMILY.
This includes making a personal commitment to follow Christ, testifying of my faith through biblical
baptism, and becoming an active member of NHBC. This also includes active participation in wor-
ship and small groups.
Ephesians 2:19; Romans 12:4-5
2. The Commitment to grow . . .
is a commitment to take part in personal and relational DISCIPLESHIP necessary for spiritual growth.
This includes active participation in a Small Group Bible Study and other discipleship programs and
through development of personal spiritual practices that result in radical transformation.
2 Peter 3:18
3. The Commitment to serve . . .
is a commitment to discover and use my God-given gifts and abilities in SERVING God and others.
This includes finding my personal ministry and committing to serving in that role on a regular basis.
This may include ministry within the church, ministry within the community, and ministry around the
world.
1 Peter 4:10; 1 Corinthians 12:5, 27
4. The Commitment to go . . .
is a commitment to GO and make disciples by SHARING the Gospel with others.
This includes making a commitment to personal evangelism and to missions by praying, giving, and
going as the Lord leads. This may include sharing Christ with those in my immediate sphere of
influence, with others within our community, and with people around the world.
Acts 1:8; Romans 1:16
Session 5: Your Story
Discovering Church Membership
NHBC Member Responsibilities
As a member of the faith family called New Home Baptist Church, I commit myself to God and to
the other members of the faith family by doing the following:
I. I will protect the unity of my church
• By acting in love toward other members.
• By refusing to gossip.
• By following the leaders.
Rom. 15:19; 1 Peter 1:22; Eph. 4:29; Heb. 13:17
II. I will share the responsibility of my church
• By praying for its growth.
• By inviting the unchurched to attend.
• By warmly welcoming those who come.
1Thess. 1:2; Luke 14:23; Rom. 15:7
III. I will serve the ministry of my church
• By discovering my gifts and talents.
• By being equipped to serve by my pastors.
• By developing a servant’s heart.
1 Peter 4:10; Eph. 4:11-12; Phil. 2:3-4, 7
IV. I will support the testimony of my church
• By attending faithfully.
• By living a Godly life.
• By giving my tithe, time and talents.
Heb. 10:25; Phil. 1:27; 1 Cor. 16:2; Lev. 27:30
Note: In a fellowship, we prioritize harmony and unity. These responsibilities help maintain both.
