Among other analogies, the Bible sometimes refers to professing Christians who regularly assemble under the authority and instruction of a team of qualified pastors as that church’s “members.” This Greek New Testament word is used 32 times, sometimes to refer to a literal “member,” “part,” or “limb” of a physical body, and at other times metaphorically to refer to a person who is a “part” or “participant” in a church fellowship. These participants are expected to maintain a high level of commitment to their church as demonstrated by their regular attendance, their faithful participation in church programs, their service in church ministries, and their financial support of the church. Compass Bible Church refers to these members as “highly committed participants” and their involvement as “attending, connecting, serving, and giving.” These HCPs are spiritually cared for by the pastoral team and are called to submit to the pastors’ doctrinal oversight and church discipline whenever necessary.

Ephesians 4:11–16; Hebrews 10:24–25; 1 Peter 4:10–11; 1 Corinthians 9:8–12