According to Jesus’ commandment, Christians are to associate themselves together in local congregations. Such a fellowship is composed of Jesus’ true disciples, who have experienced the new birth. It is evident by these person’s profession and lifestyle that they have received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

In joining a local church, believers unite with the rest of the congregation by covenant. Church members willingly commit to walk together, giving themselves to the Lord, and to one another. This covenant admits them to the privileges of the church, and its discipline and government. The Lord Jesus is the head of the Church and each congregation is to operate according to His laws.

Until Jesus comes again, the local church is a "colony of heaven" (Philippians 3:20) and is a fellowship on a mission. The central purpose of the church is to honor and glorify God; the central task of the church is to bear witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ through evangelism and missions. Only those who have a relationship with Christ, sharing his message and mission for the church should join.