Morning thoughts from Pastor Tim

I have been pastor at CrossRoads for 9 years.
A lot can happen in 9 years.
I’ve seen many come and go and a few went before they arrived.
I suppose every church has a large turnover but in our case we don’t keep track of it.
Our church memberships is not based on a name written in a book somewhere, though I don’t have problem with other churches doing that.
What I have always had a problem with is individuals on a church roll that aren’t at church.
I recall being a member of 2 different churches and each had about 170 listed on the books yet the attendance was less than 50.
Where is everyone?
What is needed is less writing of a name and more commitment to The Name that is above all names!
I recall 2 occasions where someone has come before the church and declared their salvation and desire to make CrossRoads their church.
My answer is always the same, “if you want to make this your church then commit to being here, fellowshipping, worshipping, and learning with the body. We have no written roll of names. Your part in this church is in body and spirit, not by name.”
They didn’t come back!
And have they committed to another church?
I don’t think so.
Church membership is no substitution for salvation.
Jesus said, “Rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:20
That’s the one book that does mean something.
Who will enter into the presence of the Lord?
Those whose names are written on the church roll?
No, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. Rev 21:27