Introduction:
Are you just attending church, or are you truly part of it? In today’s church culture, it’s easy to show up on Sundays and go through the motions without fully committing to the life and mission of the church. Yet, there’s a profound difference between being a “church person” and a “church member.” Both may fill the same pews, but their spiritual priorities and depth of relationship with God differ greatly.
In this post, we’ll explore what it means to belong to the body of Christ in the way He intended. Let’s dive into Scripture and discover if we’re simply attending church or actually being the church.
1. What Defines a “Church Person”?
A “church person” attends church, but their commitment rarely goes deeper. They show up, participate on the surface, but resist surrendering fully to the teachings, structure, or mission of the church. Often, their presence at church is rooted more in routine or social engagement rather than genuine spiritual devotion.
A church person may outwardly “look the part”—they sing the songs, say “amen,” and appear engaged. However, they hold back on fully aligning themselves with the leadership or mission of the church. Instead, they tend to follow their own preferences and habits.
“This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.” (Matthew 15:8, KJV)
In this verse, Jesus speaks of people who outwardly honor God but inwardly lack devotion. The “church person” may appear committed, but their heart remains detached, often more focused on self-comfort than spiritual growth.
2. A “Church Member”—Fully Committed to Christ’s Body
A church member, in contrast, fully invests in the church. They recognize that being part of the church means more than just attending services; it requires a heart surrendered to God, a life aligned with His mission, and an active role in supporting the church’s leaders and fellow members.
Church membership involves submitting to the church’s teachings and serving out of a genuine love for God and commitment to His Kingdom. A true church member realizes that the church is not a place, but a living community—Christ’s body—where each person has a vital role to play.
“For we are members of His body [joined to Him as head], and one flesh.” (Ephesians 5:30, AMPC)
The Apostle Paul reminds us that our connection to the church is as essential as a limb is to a body. A church member, therefore, is an active participant, deeply connected, and committed to growing and strengthening the body of Christ.
3. The Fear of God: A Distinguishing Factor
A major difference between a church person and a church member is the fear of God. This isn’t about being afraid but refers to deep reverence, honor, and awe toward God. A church member demonstrates this fear by honoring the church’s teachings and respecting its leaders. In contrast, a church person often lacks this reverence, treating church participation as optional or trivial.
“The [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the beginning and the preeminent part of wisdom, its starting point and its essence.” (Proverbs 9:10, AMPC)
Only through a profound respect for God can we develop the wisdom needed for a truly committed life. This reverence is what transforms mere attendance into active, heartfelt membership.
4. Accountability in Church Membership
True church membership comes with accountability. When we join a church, we are agreeing to be accountable—to God, to our leaders, and to one another. This kind of accountability keeps us grounded, humble, and growing. A church person, however, often avoids accountability, preferring to stay detached and independent.
“Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account [of their stewardship of you].” (Hebrews 13:17, AMPC)
The writer of Hebrews urges us to respect and submit to our leaders, acknowledging that they bear a responsibility for our spiritual care. Accountability within church membership is not just about rules—it’s about mutual growth, protection, and spiritual alignment.
5. The Rewards of True Membership
A church member experiences unique blessings that come from fully investing in the church’s mission. God honors our obedience, commitment, and service. A church person may seek the benefits without the commitment, hoping to share in the blessings without the sacrifice. But God’s blessings are often reserved for those who are genuinely devoted to Him and His people.
“For God, the Faithful One, is not unfair. How can he forget the beautiful work you have done for him? He remembers the love you demonstrate as you continually serve his beloved ones.” (Hebrews 6:10, TPT)
True members who pour out their love and service are assured that God sees every act of devotion. He remembers and rewards those who earnestly seek Him through committed membership in His body.
6. Self-Examination: Are You a Church Person or a Church Member?
If you recognize yourself as more of a “church person” than a committed “church member,” consider this a gentle nudge to re-evaluate. Are you ready to commit fully, both to God and to the community He’s placed you in? Being part of a church goes beyond surface participation; it requires wholehearted dedication, humility, and a commitment to growth.
Reflect on these questions:
• Do I honor God’s commands, or do I pick and choose what suits me?
• Am I accountable to my church’s leaders, or do I resist their guidance?
• Do I contribute meaningfully to my church, or am I just there to receive?
• Do I fear God, and does this reverence shape my life?
Conclusion: Embracing the Call to Belong
The church isn’t just a building; it’s a body, a family, a community that God has established to guide and grow us. When we truly understand this, we see that attending church is only part of the picture. God calls us to belong—to commit, to serve, and to live in fellowship with one another.
Being a church member requires more than attendance; it requires an open heart, a life surrendered to God, and a dedication to the work He’s doing in and through His people. Let’s strive to be more than mere attendees. Let’s step into the fullness of what God has for us by embracing true membership in His body.
“Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.” (1 Corinthians 12:27, KJV)
May each of us take up our place in the body, serving wholeheartedly and honoring Christ through our love and dedication to His church.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
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