About Us | Beliefs and Values | Statement on Commitment to the Local Church

Statement on Commitment to the Local Church

Christians are called to love God and love men (Matthew 22:37-39). In accordance with the Scriptures, men and women are to be committed to a Christ-honoring, grace-filled local church where they are called, in a practical way, to love God and love people. (Heb. 10:23-25; 1 John 3:16).

If a person is committed to Christ and to a Christ-honoring church, that commitment will be demonstrated in one of two ways. Either the person will stay and serve in the local church, or he will make a good faith effort to leave with the blessing of that church. (Phil. 2:1-4; Acts 13:1-3.) Also, when that person believes that the local church is not following the Scriptures, he will make a good faith effort to graciously correct and build that local church. (Galatians 5:13; 6:1).

Regardless of whether a person makes the good faith efforts stated above, if a person decides to leave a local church, we urge pastors and church members to demonstrate the love of Christ by giving a blessing to the person who leaves, whenever possible. (Romans 12:10.)

Overall, we reaffirm that all Christians must follow Christ, not men, in all decisions regarding their local church involvement (Gal. 1:10).

If you have any questions about this statement or about any other views held in Great Commission Churches, please contact our office at info@gccweb.org.

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