06/18/2026
Church Membership at First Christian Church of Machias
Every Part Matters
As the owner of a coffee shop, I’ve noticed that one of our top-selling drinks is the Iced Caramel Macchiato. What makes it so special isn’t just one ingredient—it’s all of them working together.
You’ve got the rich espresso that gives that bold wake-up punch in the morning. The milk brings smoothness. The vanilla syrup adds flavor. The ice provides refreshment. The cold foam creates texture. And, of course, the caramel sauce brings that sweet finish everyone loves.
Each ingredient contributes something unique. Remove one, and the drink just isn’t the same. Sure, it’s still coffee—but something important is missing.
The church is much the same way.
God has designed His people to function together as one body. Every believer has been given spiritual gifts, abilities, and a measure of faith to serve Christ and His church.
In Romans 12:4-5 it says For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another…
What Is Church Membership?
Church membership at First Christian Church of Machias (FCCM) is a joyful and intentional commitment to a local body of believers. Through membership, a Christian identifies with the church family and enters into a covenant relationship with the congregation. In return, the elders and leaders of FCCM commit themselves to providing biblical shepherding, spiritual oversight, encouragement, and accountability. Membership moves a person from simply attending services to actively participating in the life, ministry, and mission of the church.
Why Become a Member?
Membership is more than regularly attending Sunday worship; it is a commitment to a spiritual family and to the work God is doing through His church.
Pastoral Care
Membership helps the elders and leaders of FCCM know whom they are called to shepherd, encourage, and care for spiritually (Acts 20:28; Hebrews 13:17).
Biblical Accountability
Membership provides a loving environment where believers encourage one another, bear one another's burdens, and help each other grow in Christ (Galatians 6:1-2; Hebrews 10:24-25).
Service and Belonging
Every believer has been gifted by God for ministry. Membership provides opportunities to serve, use those gifts, and take part in the mission of FCCM as we seek to glorify Christ and make disciples (1 Peter 4:10; Ephesians 4:11-16).
Participation in Church Life
Members are entrusted with important matters concerning the life and ministry of the church, including affirming leadership, supporting the church's mission, and participating in significant congregational decisions.
Membership Expectations
While salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, membership at FCCM involves a commitment to walk together in unity and faithfulness.
1. A Profession of Faith in Jesus Christ
Prospective members should have personally trusted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and be in agreement with the essential doctrines, mission, and values of First Christian Church of Machias.
2. Believer's Baptism
Members should have publicly identified with Christ through believer's baptism as an outward testimony of their faith and obedience to Him.
3. Faithful Attendance
Members are encouraged to regularly gather with the church family for worship, fellowship, discipleship, and prayer, recognizing the importance of the local church in the Christian life (Hebrews 10:24-25).
4. Active Participation and Generous Support
Members are encouraged to serve faithfully, use their spiritual gifts, and support the ministry of FCCM through prayer, volunteering, and cheerful financial giving as the Lord provides (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Our Commitment
At First Christian Church of Machias, we believe church membership is not merely having your name on a list—it is a commitment to follow Christ together, love one another deeply, and faithfully proclaim the gospel for the glory of God. As a church family, we desire to grow in grace, serve one another, and make disciples until Christ returns.
So, please prayerfully consider becoming a member here at First Christian Church of Machias. We would be honored to walk alongside you as we grow together in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, serve one another in love, and faithfully proclaim the gospel to our community and beyond.
If God is leading you to make FCCM your church home, we invite you to take that step of commitment and become part of this local family of believers. Our desire is that every member be known, cared for, equipped, and encouraged as we seek to glorify Christ together.
"Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually."
— 1 Corinthians 12:27 (NKJV)
With love in Christ,
Pastor Josiah D. Andrews
First Christian Church of Machias
"Serving Christ Together for His Glory"
