Membership has its responsibilities

I believe that it is the American Express Card that advertises that Membership has its privileges.  Companies spend a great amount of money letting you know the privileges you have if you join them. If you are offered membership in a Gym or Country Club again you are told of the privileges you get by being a member. Yes, the person selling the membership will talk about the cost but the selling point is the privileges you get. 

This is all true but the problem is the conclusion that membership has privileges without many responsibilities has made its way into the church. Are there privileges that come with being a church member? Sure, but actually becoming part of the church has just as many if not more responsibilities than privileges in this life. 

I believe many well-meaning Christians and Pastors have sold church membership as a good return on investment rather than on the commitment it actually represents.

A more accurate example of membership in the church of Jesus Christ is that of joining the military. If you are a member of the armed forces there are privileges, but there are lots of res[ponsiblities and the commitments can cost you your life. 

Remember Membership has its responsibilities...

CS Areson