Membership Matters
An Orientation to Membership at Delaware Baptist Church
How to Use This Page
Step 1: Watch the Welcome Video
Begin with the welcome video below. It explains the purpose of these resources and how the membership process works at Delaware Baptist Church.
Step 2: Download the Class Notes and Membership Guiding Document
These resources will help you follow along with the videos, review the major points, and better understand our membership process.
Step 3: Watch the Membership Videos
The three membership sessions cover the biblical basis for church membership, the role of doctrine and our statement of faith, and the mission and life of Delaware Baptist Church.
Step 4: Fill Out the Membership Next Step Form
After watching the videos, fill out the form at the bottom of this page to let us know you are interested in continuing the membership process.
Downloadable Resources
Part 1: Is church membership biblical?
In this video we build a biblical case for church membership. We hope and pray that you will gain an understanding of the biblical convictions that are driving us to practice membership at Delaware Baptist Church.
Part 2: Why should a church have a statement of faith?
In this video we talk about the concept of “theological triage” and discuss why a church should have a statement of faith. The Baptist Faith and Message 2000 is our statement of faith at Delaware Baptist Church. We lay out how this statement of faith puts us in a distinct “stream” of Christian theology and practice. Lastly, we cover how doctrine functions in the life of our church.
Part 3: The Church’s Mission
In this video, we discuss the mission of Delaware Baptist Church and tie it directly back to the Great Commission. We also show how this mission shapes and directs our church gatherings and life in our church.
Pathway to Membership
1. Online Orientation
The membership process begins with the online orientation videos on this page. These videos introduce the biblical basis for church membership, the role of doctrine and our statement of faith, and the mission and life of Delaware Baptist Church.
2. In-Person Covenant Class
After completing the online orientation, those who desire to move forward are invited to attend an in-person Covenant Class. In this class, we walk through the Delaware Church Covenant together, answer questions, and explain the membership interview process.
3. Membership Interview
After the Covenant Class, those who desire to continue will meet with one or more elders for a membership interview. This conversation gives the elders an opportunity to hear your testimony, talk with you about church membership, answer any questions you may have, and help you discern whether membership at Delaware Baptist Church is the right next step.
4. Elder Recommendation and Church Affirmation
Following the membership interview, the elders may recommend prospective members to the church for congregational affirmation according to our membership process.