The good news of the Gospel is that the triune God-Father, Son, and Holy Spirit- creates, redeems, sustains, rules and transforms all things and all people. This one living God, the Scriptures say, liberated the people of Israel from oppression and covenanted to be their God. By the power of the Spirit, this living God is incarnate in Jesus Christ, who came to live in the world, die for the world, and be raised again to new life. The Gospel of Jesus Christ announces the nearness of God’s kingdom, bringing good news to all who are impoverished, sight to all who are blind, freedom to all who are oppressed, and proclaiming the Lord’s favor upon all creation.

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The mission of God in Christ gives shape and substance to the life and work of the Church. In Christ, the Church participates in God’s mission for the transformation of creation and humanity by proclaiming to all people the good news of God’s love, offering to all people the grace of God at font and table, and calling all people to discipleship in Christ. Human beings have no higher goal in life than to glorify and enjoy God now and forever, living in covenant fellowship with God and participating in God’s mission.

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The Ministry of Members

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Membership in the Church of Jesus Christ is a joy and privilege. It is also a commitment to participate in Christ’s mission. A faithful member bears witness to God’s love and grace and promises to be involved responsibly in the ministry of Christ’s Church. Such involvement includes:

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• Proclaiming the good news in word and deed.

• Taking part in the common life and worship of a congregation.

• Lifting one another up in prayer, mutual concern, and active support.

• Studying Scripture and the issues of Christian faith and life.

• Supporting the ministry of the church through the giving of money, time, and talents.

• Demonstrating a new quality of life within and through the church.

• Responding to God’s activity in the world through service to others.

• Living responsibly in the personal, family, vocational, political, cultural and social relationships of life.

• Working in the world for peace, justice, freedom and human fulfillment.

• Participating in the governing responsibilities of the church.

• Reviewing and evaluating regularly the integrity of one’s membership, and considering ways in which one’s participation on the worship and service of the church may be increased and made more meaningful.