Reception of Lay Leaders
God instructs the church to acknowledge its leaders and to regard them highly for their work’s sake (1 Thess. 5:12-13). This is not because leaders are better than those they lead but because they accept additional responsibility in furthering God’s work through the local church. As you step into this higher calling to participate in directing our fellowship of believers, we admonish you to remain focused on the purpose of leadership—to enable the church to effectively care for the souls of our people (Heb. 13:17). This purpose remains true no matter the specific role that you assume. We thank God for you and all who accept the responsibility necessary to help facilitate the work of God through the _______ Church.
Lay Leadership Covenant
Questions for Lay Leaders…
As a believer in Jesus Christ and a member of this church, do you accept the responsibility for participating in its spiritual leadership and governance?
ANSWER: I do.
Do you have the assurance that you have been entirely sanctified through the infilling of the Holy Spirit? If not, do you purpose to diligently seek this grace?
ANSWER: I do.
Do you accept the Statement of Faith, church polity, and scriptural principles of holy living as stated in the Bible Methodist Discipline to guide your faith and conduct?
ANSWER: I do.
Do you recognize your obligation to God and the church and will you contribute your tithes and offerings for the support of the Gospel in its local and general interests?
ANSWER: I do and I will.
Do you purpose that your life shall be governed by love in all its relations to God and fellow men?
ANSWER: I do.
Seeing your desire to become a Lay Leader of the church do you cheerfully de-vote yourself to God in the everlasting covenant of His grace, consecrating all your powers and faculties to His service and glory? Do you promise that you will cleave to Him as your chief good; that you will give diligent attention to His Word; that you will seek the honor and advancement of His kingdom; and that denying all ungodliness and worldly lusts, you will live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world? Do you also purpose to seek earnestly the peace, purity, and edification of the church, and to walk with all its members in charity, faithfulness, and sobriety?
The following paragraph may be used instead of the preceding paragraph in the event of a reception of lay leaders uniting on transfer:
In transferring your membership to this church and becoming one of its Lay Leaders, do you cheerfully devote yourself to God in the everlasting covenant of His grace, consecrating all your powers and faculties to His service and glory? Do you promise that you will cleave to Him as your chief good; that you will give diligent attention to His Word; that you will seek the honor and advancement of His kingdom; and that denying all ungodliness and worldly lusts, you will live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world? Do you also purpose to seek earnestly the peace, purity, and edification of the church, and to walk with all its members in charity, faithfulness, and sobriety?
ANSWER: I do.