Importance of Church Membership

Another obligation, too often lightly regarded—one that should be made plain to every young person who has been awakened to the claims of Christ—is the obligation of church relationship. Very close and sacred is the relation between Christ and His church—He the bridegroom, the church the bride; He the head, the church the body. Connection with Christ, then, involves connection with His church.TEd 167.6

The church is organized for service, and in a life of service to Christ, connection with the church is one of the first steps. Loyalty to Christ demands the faithful performance of church duties. This is an important part of one’s training, and in a church imbued with the Master’s life it will lead directly to effort for the outside world.TEd 167.7

There are many lines in which young people can find opportunity for helpful effort. Organize them into bands for Christian service. Parents and teachers, by taking an interest in their work, will be able to give them the benefit of their own larger experience, and can help them make their efforts effective for good.TEd 168.1

Acquaintance awakens sympathy, and sympathy is the spring of effective ministry. To awaken in children and young people sympathy and the spirit of sacrifice for the suffering millions on other continents, let them become acquainted with these lands and their peoples. In this line much might be accomplished in our schools. Instead of dwelling on the exploits of the Alexanders and Napoleons of history, encourage students to study the lives of greats such as the apostle Paul, Martin Luther, Moffat, Livingstone, Carey, and the present global advances of missionary effort.TEd 168.2