PLAN OF SALVATION
One must recognize that he is a sinner.
For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God; Romans 3:23 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: Romans 5:12
One must realize that he can’t save himself.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God; not of works lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2: 8-9
One must repent of his sins.
I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Luke 13:3
One must receive the Lord Jesus as his personal savior.
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. Romans 10:9
HOW TO JOIN PINEY BAPTIST CHURCH
Piney Baptist Church receives members in three ways:
New Christians: He/she will come forward at the close of any regular worship service. The candidate should tell the pastor about his/her decision to trust Jesus Christ as Savior. The pastor will introduce the candidate to the church family who will vote to receive the candidate. A baptism service will be scheduled.
Transfer of Membership: He/she will present themselves as a candidate for membership by transfer of letter at the close of any regular worship service. The candidate should tell the pastor that he/she wishes to join the church by transfer of a letter from a Southern Baptist Church. The pastor will introduce the candidate to the church family who will vote to receive the candidate. A letter will be sent to the candidate’s current church, stating that a transfer of membership has been granted to this church.
Statement of Previous Profession of Faith and Baptism by Immersion: He/she will present themselves as a candidate for membership by “Statement of Faith” or for “Baptism by Immersion” to the pastor at the close of any regular worship service. The pastor will introduce the candidate to the church family who will vote to receive the candidate. The candidate may be a member of an evangelical church which proclaims the Gospel and immerses those who profess faith in Christ. This candidate may join by “Statement of Faith," and baptism is not necessary since he/she has already been immersed as a believer in Jesus Christ. Candidates from other denominations who have not been immersed will be received for “Baptism by Immersion." Southern Baptist Churches that have disbanded cannot grant “Statement of Faith” letters.
An arrangement will be made with the pastor to discuss any questions potentially new members may have, and he can clearly explain the manner in which one can join Piney Baptist Church. He can also provide more information on our beliefs and practices for those who are not Southern Baptist. After the church votes to receive a new member, someone will assist that person in completing a membership card.
