I belong here. God says believers belong together (Hebrews 10:23-25) and I sense God wants me with the people of Vertical Life Church. I want to make a public declaration of my commitment to God’s work in this church.
I affirm, believe, and support the teaching of this church. God says the early believers had all things in common including devotion to the apostles’ teaching (Acts 2:42-47). I desire to associate with people of like mind and conviction, embracing the authority of God’s Word in my life and the life of the church.
I share the same ministry goals as Vertical Life Church. God says believers are to be committed to one another for the sake of spiritual impact (Ephesians 4:16). I believe Jesus has a work to do in Houston and around the world. I want to join with others who share this vision and desire to work for Christ.
I accept responsibility for a group of fellow believers in the family of God. It is God’s plan for the church (Galatians 6:1-2, 10). I want to be part of a caring community of people, sharing joys and sorrows, and helping each other to grow through worship, Bible study, and fellowship.
I am accountable to mature brothers and sisters in Christ for my walk with God. God warns against spiritual autonomy (Hebrews 13:17; Matthew 18:15-20). I want to receive the guidance, equipping, and assistance necessary to walk worthy.
I accept the authority and role of church leadership. God has established this structure (1 Corinthians 12:20-27). Elders, deacons, and other church leaders are called from within to serve the church body. I also believe every member needs to contribute their gifts and serve within the church.
My Testimony of Personal Faith in Jesus Christ
In order to become a member of Vertical Life Church, you need a clear testimony of personal faith in Jesus Christ. Please follow this outline to write your testimony. Writing your story of personal faith in Jesus Christ is a wonderful way to reflect on how God has drawn you to Himself, and changed your life. As you write, make sure the focus is on God, what he has done, and is doing in your life.
I once was...
Spend a brief time on “before.” This is not a biography from childhood. It is best to start at a time related to your experience with Christ.
But Christ...
Be as specific as possible about surrendering your life to Christ. What was happening at the time? How did Christ get your attention? If possible, share the month and year you were saved.
And now...
Be practical. Explain how Christ has changed your life. Share how you are growing in your walk with Christ. “Just as you have received him, so walk in him, rooted and built up and strengthened in the faith” (Colossians 2:6-7).
Previous Church Membership
Four Membership Commitments
1. I have by faith become a follower of Jesus Christ and I have been baptized as a visible way of demonstrating that commitment.
2. Because a disciple worships Christ, I will attend and fully participate in worship services at Vertical Life Church.
3. Because a disciple walks with Christ, I will seek to maintain consistent disciplines of Bible study, prayer, and personal witness. Outside of Sunday services, I will walk in fellowship with other believers at Vertical Life Church. To maintain unity in fellowship, I will neither criticize nor listen to criticism concerning any member(s) of this body and will, when personally offended, speak directly and lovingly with those involved.
4. Because a disciple works for Christ, I will seek a place to serve at Vertical Life Church, using my spiritual gifts and passions. I will financially support the ministries of Vertical Life Church by faithfully giving back to the Lord a biblical portion of my increase.
I have shared truthfully in this application and am in agreement with the commitments for membership as stated above.