Introduction
Many people are not actively involved in our church for various reasons. Some feel overwhelmed by personal commitments or busy schedules, while others experience emotional or spiritual hurts that prevent participation. There are also those who feel disillusioned or who think that the church no longer meets their spiritual needs. Some may struggle with a lack of motivation, personal faith challenges, or feel inadequate to contribute meaningfully.
Engagement in the church is vital for us because the church serves as the primary means for spiritual growth, community, and discipleship. Regardless of the reasons, often it's because we misunderstand what "true membership" means. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-31, the apostle Paul gives four reasons why “membership” means more than just attending the Sunday worship service.
Four Reasons
True Membership means a Change in our Identity. (1 Corinthians 12:12-14) - Our identity is now rooted in Christ, transcending the divisions of race, status, or background that once defined us. As members of one body, each of us is uniquely gifted to serve, yet we are unified in purpose through the Holy Spirit. This means that our worth and belonging come from being part of God’s family, not from the world’s categories or labels. In Christ, we reflect a new humanity, where unity and diversity coexist, as each believer contributes to the greater work of God on earth.
True Membership means a Change in our Value. (1 Corinthians 12:15-20) - Our value is no longer measured by what we can do, but by our identity as members of Christ’s body. Each part of the body is essential, regardless of its function, because God has arranged us with purpose. Just as the foot or ear cannot say it’s less valuable because it isn't the hand or eye, we too must recognize that every member contributes to the health and mission of the church. Our worth comes from being united with Christ, not from comparisons or individual achievements.
True Membership means a Change in our Responsibilities. (1 Corinthians 12:21-26) - As members of Christ’s body, we are interconnected, and this means our responsibilities extend beyond ourselves. Just as the eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you,” we cannot dismiss the needs or well-being of others in the body. God has designed the church so that when one part suffers, we all suffer, and when one part is honored, we all rejoice together. Our new responsibility is to care for one another, to build each other up, and to ensure that no member is neglected or undervalued.
True Membership means a Change in our Desires. (1 Corinthians 12:27-31) - As members of Christ’s body, we are called to desire spiritual gifts that benefit others, rather than those that only bring us personal recognition or satisfaction. The focus should not be on status or self-importance, but on using our gifts to build up the body of Christ. Paul emphasizes that the greater gifts are those that edify the church and strengthen the community. Our hearts must shift from seeking individual honor to seeking ways to serve others in love and unity,
Conclusion
“True membership strengthens our faith and builds community.” True membership in the church is much more than attending a worship service. It's about living out our identity in Christ, recognizing the value God has placed on each of us, embracing our responsibility to one another, and desiring to serve in ways that build up the church, not just ourselves. Are we fully living out our true membership in Christ’s body? May our desire be to serve in a way that strengthens the whole body, so that together, we can fulfill God’s purpose and reflect His love to the world.
Discussion
In what ways has your identity changed since becoming a member of the body of Christ, and how does this affect your sense of belonging within the church?
How does recognizing the unique value of each member in the church help us to avoid comparing ourselves to others?
What responsibilities do we have toward one another as members of the same body, and how can we support each other more effectively in times of suffering or joy?
How can we shift our desires from seeking personal recognition to using our spiritual gifts for the benefit of the entire church community?
What steps can you take this week to actively engage in the life and ministry of your local church, based on your understanding of membership in the body of Christ?