MEMBERSHIP & BAPTISM
About
Process
Membership at Redemption
We believe church membership reflects Christ’s design for intentional, accountable community.
Why become a member?
About Membership
- We take membership at our church seriously because we believe it's a meaningful commitment rooted in the pattern of the New Testament. While the Bible does not use the modern term “membership,” it assumes a clear distinction between those who are part of the local body and those who are not (e.g., Acts 2:41–47, 1 Corinthians 5:12–13). Church leaders are called to shepherd specific people (Hebrews 13:17, 1 Peter 5:2), and believers are commanded to carry out all kinds of ministry and service to the church. Many of those commands are only, truly possible to obey in the context of a known and identifiable church body. Formal membership helps us fulfill these biblical responsibilities by affirming shared doctrine, enabling accountability, uniting together in our service, and fostering deeper community and mission together. So, for us at Redemption Bible Church, membership is the way to express our commitment to Christ, His Body and His work in our world. Baptism by immersion is required for membership.
Membership Process
Membership classes are normally in spring and fall. If you are interested in membership, please talk to Russ Brewer.
Membership Step 1
Membership Class
- We offer a three-session class, normally after the Sunday worship service, designed to help you understand our church's beliefs, mission, and structure. These sessions include:
- • An introduction to the nature of church membership
- • An overview of our theological convictions
- • Our vision for church life and ministry
- • An introduction to elements of church live that are unique to Redemption
Membership Step 2
Application and Interview
- After completing the classes, you’ll be invited to fill out a brief application sharing your testimony, affirmation of our doctrinal statement, and areas of ministry interest. We also typically try to schedule an elder conversation to discuss your application and answer any further questions you might have about Redemption.
Membership Step 3
Congregational Affirmation
- Once approved by the elders, we’ll joyfully present you to the congregation during a Sunday gathering. At that service together we will read and affirm our membership covenant that has been the backbone of our fellowship for decades.
Baptism at Redemption
We believe in obeying Christ in a public declaration of faith and baptism by immersion.
Why become baptized?
About Baptism
- Baptism is an external act that shows an internal reality. While it does not save you, Jesus Christ has commanded that those who believe in him publicly declare and be baptized by the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit by immersion to signify new life in Christ (Matthew 28:18-20).
Baptism Process
We would be happy to help you become baptized! Baptism classes are normally offered after membership classes. If you are interested in being baptized, please talk to Russ Brewer.
Baptism Step 1
Baptism Class
- We offer a three-session class, normally after the Sunday worship service. This class is to help you understand the nature, purpose, and proper motivations behind baptism.
Baptism Step 2
One-on-One Discussion
- After completing the classes, you’ll be invited to complete a brief worksheet that will walk you through presenting your public testimony. You will then have a discussion with an elder about your testimony, motivations, and any concerns you may have about your public declaration of faith.
Baptism Step 3
Public Declaration
- Once approved by the elders, we’ll joyfully present you to be baptized before the church. You will share your testimony and be baptized by immersion!
Russ Brewer
Senior Pastor
Russ Brewer has been the senior pastor of what is now Redemption Bible Church for 12 years. He and his wife Corinne have been married for 27 years and have 6 children. Russ has a B.A. from Moody Bible Institute and M.Div. from The Master's Seminary.