Becoming a Member

Understanding Covenant Commitment in the Local Church

Becoming part of a local church is more than just joining a group—it’s entering into covenant relationship with a family of believers and taking your place in the body of Christ in a specific location. At City of Refuge, we believe that church membership is not about signing up for a club or an institution—it’s about walking together in love, truth, accountability, and spiritual purpose.

Acts 2:41-42… “So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls. They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer.”

In the early church, believers who came to Christ were not left to wander alone. They were added to the fellowship. They became part of something greater than themselves. They shared in teaching, fellowship, worship, and prayer. This example is our model. Belonging matters.

Hebrews 10:24-25 (AMPCE)… “And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities, not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching.”

Covenant membership strengthens accountability, spiritual growth, and mutual encouragement. It's a place where your gifts are developed, your calling is confirmed, and your walk with Christ deepens in community.

Ephesians 4:15-16… “But speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.”

You were never meant to grow alone. When every member is joined, functioning, and supplying their part, the body becomes strong and mature. When you commit to a church family, you step into a rhythm of spiritual health, shared responsibility, and supernatural unity.

At the City of Refuge, our elders and leaders are committed to our biblical responsibilities. That includes:

1 Timothy 5:17… “The elders who lead well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching.”

Titus 1:7… “For the overseer must be above reproach as God’s steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not overindulgent in wine, not a bully, not greedy for money.”

1 Peter 5:1-2… “Therefore, I urge elders among you… shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not with greed, but with eagerness.”

Our role is to teach the Word, guard sound doctrine, pray for the people, care for the sick, and lead the body into Christ’s purposes. As leaders, we commit to walk in humility and accountability to the Word of God. Membership, then, is mutual. We commit to you. You commit to us.

1 Corinthians 12:18… “But now, God has arranged the parts, each one of them in the body, just as He desired.”

God sets people in families. If He is calling you here, it’s because He has a purpose for you in this place. You have a role. You have a part to play. You have something to give—and something to receive.

Becoming a covenant member means:

• Embracing the vision, values, and spiritual direction of this house
• Participating actively in worship, service, and discipleship
• Walking in unity, honor, and submission to leadership
• Committing to love, grow with, and support your brothers and sisters in Christ

Ephesians 2:19-20… “So then you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone.”

Church membership reflects the reality of God’s family—one body, many parts, unified in purpose, called to build His kingdom together.

Reflection Questions for Prayer and Journal

• Have I viewed church as optional or essential in my spiritual walk?
• What would it mean to walk in covenant with a body of believers, rather than simply attend?
• Is the Lord calling me to plant my life and spiritual gifts in this house for His purpose?

If your heart is stirring, then consider this a divine invitation. You are not here by accident. You are being called into covenant—not only with a church, but with a people, a purpose, and a kingdom assignment.

Building Kingdom People with a Prophetic and Apostolic Mandate

At the City of Refuge, our vision is clear and compelling: “Building Kingdom People who will strengthen families, impact their city, and change the world.” This is not a slogan—it’s a divine assignment. Every part of our church life flows from this calling. We are not just building a congregation; we are equipping a people who know their God, know who they are, and know what they’ve been called to do.

“Building Kingdom People…”

The kingdom of God is more than a church service or a ministry event—it is the reign and rule of Jesus Christ in every area of life. Our vision to build “kingdom people” means that we are called to raise up believers who live as citizens of heaven, walking in the authority, identity, and purpose given by God.

Matthew 6:33… “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.”

Kingdom people are grounded in truth, filled with the Spirit, and sent out to bring transformation wherever they go. They represent the King, not just in word, but in action, character, and love.

Our church does not exist for religious routine—we exist to raise sons and daughters who live from a kingdom mindset and who multiply that influence in their families, their workplaces, their communities, and the nations.

Our Apostolic and Prophetic Identity

We are an apostolic and prophetic house. This speaks to both our structure and our calling.

As an apostolic church, we are committed to equipping and sending. The word “apostolic” comes from the Greek apostolos, meaning “one who is sent.” We believe the church should be a place where believers are trained, discipled, empowered, and launched into their purpose—whether in ministry, leadership, or everyday influence.

Ephesians 4:11-12… “And He gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the building up of the body of Christ.”

As a prophetic people, we are devoted to hearing and responding to the voice of the Lord. We believe God is still speaking to His people through His Word and by His Spirit. We value the gift of prophecy—for strengthening, encouraging, and building up the church.

1 Corinthians 14:3… “But the one who prophesies speaks to people for edification, exhortation, and consolation.”

Apostolic churches send. Prophetic churches hear. We are called to do both—hear the voice of the King and go where He sends.

Our culture is bold but humble, spiritual but grounded in truth. We don’t chase after sensationalism—we pursue the presence of God and align ourselves with His purpose.

A Great Commission Focus

Our mission is not limited to the four walls of a building. Jesus gave His church a clear directive—to go and make disciples of all nations. This is known as the Great Commission.

Matthew 28:19-20… “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to follow all that I commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

We believe every believer has a role in this mission. Whether you are called to preach, teach, parent, serve, or support—your life is part of something eternal. Your testimony matters. Your gifts matter. Your obedience matters.

Acts 1:8… “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”

Our goal is to raise a church of people who live missionally—on purpose, with purpose, and for purpose. The Great Commission is not optional. It is the heartbeat of our vision and the foundation of everything we do.

Reflection and Prayer

• What part of the City of Refuge’s vision speaks most to your heart?
• In what ways do you sense God calling you to walk as a “kingdom person”?
• Are you willing to be equipped, empowered, and sent?

As you reflect, remember—this vision is not just for leaders. It is for every believer who says yes to the Lord. You are part of something bigger than yourself. Welcome to the mission.

What Makes the City of Refuge Unique in Calling and Culture

Every local church carries a unique expression of God’s purpose in the earth. At the City of Refuge, our spiritual DNA is marked by four key distinctives—traits that shape our identity and direct our ministry. These distinctives are not just values we aspire to; they are foundational practices we intentionally cultivate. They define the spiritual culture we are building and protect the vision we steward.

1. Spirit-Filled Worship

We believe that worship is the highest response of the human heart to the living God. It is more than music—it is a lifestyle. But as a gathered church community, we intentionally create space for passionate, Spirit-led, expressive worship that honors God's presence and welcomes the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

Colossians 3:16… “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”

We were created to worship, and our hearts come alive when we encounter God in song, prayer, and praise. At the City of Refuge, our worship is expressive, heartfelt, and prophetic. We worship with lifted hands, raised voices, and open hearts. We are not ashamed of how or whom we worship—Jesus Christ is worthy of it all.

Psalm 95:1-2… “Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord, let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms.”

Worship prepares the atmosphere for healing, deliverance, and revelation. We are a house that welcomes God’s presence with reverence and joy.

2. Preaching and Teaching the Uncompromised Word of God

The Word of God is central to everything we do. We do not water it down to fit cultural preferences, nor do we compromise truth to gain popularity. We preach and teach the whole counsel of God with boldness and clarity.

2 Timothy 3:16-17… “All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work.”

We believe that every believer needs the Word to grow, be corrected, and be equipped. Whether it’s in a sermon, Bible study, or class, the Word is taught with authority and applied with love. It is not entertainment—it’s transformation.

Hebrews 4:12… “For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, even penetrating as far as the division of soul and spirit... and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

When the Word is rightly divided and spoken in power, lives are changed, minds are renewed, and truth sets people free.

3. Ministering God’s Love

Love is not just a virtue; it’s the atmosphere of the Kingdom. Jesus said that love would be the distinguishing mark of His disciples—and we take that seriously.

John 13:35… “By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.”

At the City of Refuge, love looks like grace, truth, patience, hospitality, encouragement, and forgiveness. We are not a perfect people, but we are committed to loving well. This includes loving those who are hurting, misunderstood, broken, or overlooked.

1 Peter 4:8… “Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.”

Ministering love also means building real relationships. It means restoring the broken, strengthening families, and walking with people through every season of life. Love is more than words—it’s action.

4. Ministering Healing and Deliverance

We believe in the full gospel—including the ministry of healing and deliverance. Jesus came not only to save the lost but to heal the sick, set captives free, and restore broken lives. We follow His example.

Luke 4:18… “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He anointed Me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed.”

Healing and deliverance are part of the believer’s inheritance. Whether it’s physical healing, emotional healing, or spiritual freedom, God’s heart is restoration. Through personal ministry, prayer, and the power of the Holy Spirit, we regularly witness people set free from bondage and made whole.

James 5:16… “Confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. A prayer of a righteous person, when it is brought about, can accomplish much.”

We are not afraid to confront darkness. We are not intimidated by brokenness. Our church is a safe place for healing, freedom, and transformation.

A Place to Belong and Become

These four distinctives are not boxes we check—they are the way we live. They create an atmosphere where the Spirit moves, truth is honored, love is lived out, and healing flows freely. They also define what kind of church you’re becoming part of.

As you consider your next steps, ask yourself:

• Do I desire to be in a place where worship is Spirit-led and Christ-centered?
• Am I hungry to grow in the Word of God?
• Do I want to be part of a loving, covenant community?
• Am I ready to walk in freedom and help others do the same?

If your answer is yes, then you are in the right place. Welcome to a house of distinction. Welcome to the City of Refuge.

A Prophetic Identity Rooted in Scripture and Purpose

Names matter to God. In Scripture, names often reflect calling, identity, and divine purpose. At the City of Refuge, our name isn’t just symbolic—it’s prophetic. It reflects a biblical concept rooted in God’s desire to provide safety, redemption, and restoration for those in need. Understanding where our name comes from will help you understand the kind of church God has called us to be.

The Six Cities of Refuge in the Bible

In the Old Testament, God instructed Moses and Joshua to establish six cities of refuge for anyone who accidentally caused the death of another. These cities provided protection from revenge until a proper trial could take place. They were places of mercy, safety, and justice.

Joshua 20:2-3… “Speak to the sons of Israel, saying, ‘Designate the cities of refuge, about which I spoke to you through Moses, so that a person who kills someone unintentionally, without premeditation, may flee there, and they shall become your refuge from the avenger of blood.’”

These cities were more than geographical locations—they pointed to a deeper spiritual truth. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ becomes our ultimate refuge. And the Church, His body, is meant to reflect that same heart: a place where the broken, burdened, and bruised can run and find healing.

Proverbs 18:10… “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe.”

What Each Name Prophetically Reveals

The six cities of refuge were not named randomly. Each city had a name with rich meaning—together, they form a prophetic picture of what Christ offers to us and what we, the Church, are called to be.

1.     Kedesh – “Holy Place” or “Righteousness”

Christ is our righteousness. We can’t earn it. We receive it by grace.

2 Corinthians 5:21… “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”

At the City of Refuge, we are committed to the message of grace and righteousness through faith. We don’t expect perfection—but we do point people to the One who makes us righteous.

2.     Shechem – “Shoulder”

This speaks of strength, support, and carrying burdens. Jesus invites the weary to come and rest on His shoulder.

Matthew 11:28… “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.”

We are a church that helps carry each other’s burdens. You don’t have to walk through life alone.

3.     Hebron – “Fellowship”

Hebron speaks of restored relationship—first with God, then with one another.

1 John 1:3… “What we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ.”

We value community. Real fellowship is more than shared space—it’s shared lives. It’s discipleship, encouragement, and growth together.

4.     Bezer – “Fortress” or “Stronghold”

Jesus is our refuge in times of trouble. He is our safe place, our strong defense.

Psalm 18:2… “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge.”

The world is full of chaos. But in the house of God, there is peace, protection, and spiritual stability. At the City of Refuge, we provide a safe place for healing and transformation.

5.     Ramoth – “Exalted” or “Heights”

This name reminds us that in Christ, we are lifted out of shame and hopelessness. We are seated with Him in heavenly places.

Ephesians 2:6… “And raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”

At the City of Refuge, we believe in equipping people to rise—to discover their destiny, walk in purpose, and impact their world.

6.     Golan – “Separated” or “Set Apart”

We are called to be holy, distinct, and set apart for God’s purposes.

Hebrews 10:10… “By this will, we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”

We’re not perfect, but we are pursuing holiness. We are being conformed to Christ and separated from the world’s ways.

How the City of Refuge Reflects These Truths

Our name isn’t just a title—it’s a call to action. We are a modern-day expression of the biblical cities of refuge.

We are:

• A house of righteousness, not condemnation
• A place where the weary find rest and healing
• A family of believers walking in true fellowship
• A spiritual stronghold for the hurting and broken
• A people called to rise and walk in kingdom identity
• A holy community, set apart for God’s glory

Isaiah 14:32… “The Lord has founded Zion, and the afflicted of His people will seek refuge in it.”

This is who we are. And this is who you’re invited to become a part of.

Hearing God, Speaking Truth, and Reflecting Heaven

At the City of Refuge, we believe the Church is called to be more than a gathering place—it is meant to be a prophetic people. A prophetic culture is not built around personality or performance, but around the everyday pursuit of hearing God’s voice, responding to His Spirit, and speaking His heart to others.

Hearing the Voice of God

God still speaks today. He speaks through His Word, by His Spirit, and through the gifts He’s given the Church. And He longs for His people to hear Him clearly.

John 10:27… “My sheep listen to My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”

Hearing God is not reserved for a select few—it’s the birthright of every believer. You don’t need to be a prophet to hear Him. You just need to be His.

Isaiah 30:21… “Your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ whenever you turn to the right or to the left.”

Learning to discern the Lord’s voice happens over time. It comes through Scripture, quiet listening, prayer, and walking closely with Him. When we hear Him clearly, we live boldly—and with purpose.

Prophecy in the New Testament

In the New Testament, prophecy is a vital gift. But it looks different from the Old Testament. Under the New Covenant, prophecy is primarily about edification, encouragement, and comfort—not judgment or doom.

1 Corinthians 14:3… “But the one who prophesies speaks to people for edification, exhortation, and consolation.”

The Apostle Paul encouraged all believers to desire prophecy—not to control people, but to build them up and reveal the heart of God.

1 Corinthians 14:1… “Pursue love, yet desire earnestly spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.”

When done biblically and in order, prophecy becomes a powerful tool for evangelism, inner healing, and guidance in the church.

1 Corinthians 14:24-25… “But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all; the secrets of his heart are disclosed; and so he will fall on his face and worship God, declaring that God is certainly among you.”

Prophecy isn’t about showing off spiritual gifts—it’s about showing people that God sees them, knows them, and loves them.

What a Healthy Prophetic Church Looks Like

A healthy prophetic culture doesn’t chase emotion or spectacle—it pursues God. It is grounded in Scripture, accountable in leadership, and motivated by love. A prophetic people are both Spirit-sensitive and Word-rooted.

Acts 2:17… “And it shall be in the last days,’ God says, ‘That I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind; and your sons and your daughters will prophesy.”

At the City of Refuge, we are:

• A people who listens for God’s voice
• A people who speaks truth in love
• A people who encourages and strengthen one another through Spirit-led words
• A people who remains humble, tested, and teachable in all spiritual gifts

We teach, train, and disciple prophetic believers who know the difference between true and false voices—and who use their gifts to serve, not to control.

1 Thessalonians 5:19-21… “Do not quench the Spirit, do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything; hold firmly to that which is good.”

The prophetic is not a side ministry in our church—it’s part of our DNA. And just as Jesus ministered with compassion and clarity, we seek to follow His example in everything we do.

At the City of Refuge, we are a people who walk closely with God, declare what we hear, and live lives that reflect His truth and love. This is a prophetic culture—where heaven touches earth through willing vessels who are listening, speaking, and obeying.

Healing, Freedom, and Purpose through Personal Ministry

At the City of Refuge, we believe that every believer has a God-ordained purpose, a spiritual inheritance, and a unique walk of healing and transformation. Personal ministry—is our intentional, Spirit-led approach to helping people identify and overcome the spiritual entanglements that keep them from walking in fullness and freedom.

Understanding Personal Ministry

Personal Ministry is rooted in our belief that salvation is only the beginning. After we come to Christ, there are often wounds, beliefs, and patterns that need to be healed, broken, or renewed. These are the very things that can entangle, oppress, or limit a believer from growing spiritually or stepping fully into God’s purpose.

Ephesians 2:10… “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.”

We are not saved to remain stuck—we are saved to be made whole. That’s what personal ministry is all about. Through prayer, biblical counsel, discernment, and training, we partner with the Holy Spirit to break strongholds, bring healing, and release people into their God-given identity.

How We Help People Heal, Grow, and Find Purpose

The enemy seeks to sabotage people through lifelong patterns of trauma, sin, fear, rejection, addiction, and shame. But Jesus came to undo those works and restore what was broken.

Luke 4:18… “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He anointed Me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed.”

Personal Ministry involves:

• Identifying wounds, lies, and strongholds that hinder spiritual growth
• Renouncing ungodly beliefs, inner vows, or agreements with the enemy
• Receiving healing through the Word, prayer, and Spirit-led counsel
• Empowering believers to walk in truth, freedom, and destiny

We walk with people through this process in love, humility, and confidentiality—never in judgment, always in grace. It’s not just about emotional healing, but spiritual transformation.

2 Corinthians 10:4… “For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses.”

Personal Ministry is warfare—but it is also restoration. It’s how we help people come into full alignment with their identity in Christ and take hold of what He has called them to do.

How Personal Ministry Fits Your Journey

At some point in your walk with God, you’ll realize that knowing the truth isn’t enough—you have to live it. That’s where personal ministry comes in.

Whether you’re brand new to the faith or you’ve walked with God for decades, there is always more healing, more freedom, and more clarity He wants to bring.

Philippians 1:6… “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work among you will complete it by the day of Christ Jesus.”

At the City of Refuge, you are not just invited to attend church—you’re invited to be made whole. We offer Personal Ministry to:

• All members
• Others approved by our elders in special cases

And we also train our members how to minister to others. This is not a ministry for a few—it is a part of our culture. We are a church that believes in discipleship, deliverance, and the continual work of transformation through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 4:13… “Until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ.”

If you are looking for a church that will walk with you through pain, train you in truth, and raise you into your calling—welcome to the City of Refuge.

Our Core Beliefs, Convictions, and Biblical Commitments

At the City of Refuge, we hold to an uncompromising foundation of biblical truth. Our beliefs are not suggestions, nor are they shaped by cultural trends—they are rooted in the inspired Word of God. This module summarizes our key doctrinal statements and articulates what we believe about Scripture, salvation, the Church, spiritual gifts, marriage, sanctity of life, and final authority.

Core Statements of Faith

Our faith begins and ends with the authority of Scripture. We believe the Bible is the inspired, infallible, and authoritative Word of God. Everything we believe flows from this unshakable foundation.

2 Timothy 3:16… “All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness.”

2 Peter 1:20-21… “But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture becomes a matter of someone’s own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.”

We affirm that Scripture is without error, perfectly trustworthy, and the final authority on all matters of doctrine, practice, and moral conduct.

Summary of Our Beliefs

1. The Trinity

We believe in one living God, eternally existing in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—coequal and coeternal.

Matthew 28:19… “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”

2 Corinthians 13:14… “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all.”

2. Salvation

Salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. It is a gift from God—not earned by works but received through repentance and belief in the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Ephesians 2:8-9… “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

Romans 10:9… “That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

We believe the evidence of salvation is a transformed life, marked by righteousness, obedience, and the fruit of the Spirit.

3. The Church

We believe the Church is the body of Christ on earth, made up of all born-again believers. The local church is a place of worship, discipleship, fellowship, and outreach.

Ephesians 4:16… “From whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies... causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.”

We believe the church is God’s primary instrument to advance His kingdom and equip His people for ministry and mission.

4. The Holy Spirit and Spiritual Gifts

We believe in the present-day ministry of the Holy Spirit who indwells, empowers, convicts, comforts, teaches, and leads all believers. We affirm the baptism of the Holy Spirit as a distinct and powerful experience, evidenced by speaking in tongues and other spiritual gifts.

Acts 2:38-39… “Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and each of you be baptized... and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and your children...’”

1 Corinthians 12:7… “But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”

5. Marriage and Sexuality

We believe marriage is a covenantal, lifelong union between one biological man and one biological woman. It is a sacred institution ordained by God and a reflection of Christ and His Church.

Genesis 2:24… “For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh.”

Mark 10:6-9… “But from the beginning of creation, God made them male and female... What therefore God has joined together, no person is to separate.”

We affirm that all sexual activity is reserved for the covenant of biblical marriage and reject all forms of sexual immorality as defined in Scripture—including adultery, fornication, pornography, and homosexual or transgender behavior.

Hebrews 13:4… “Marriage is to be held in honor among all, and the marriage bed is to be undefiled; for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers.”

6. Sanctity of Life

We believe that all human life is sacred and created by God in His image. This includes life in the womb, the elderly, the disabled, and all people regardless of age or condition.

Psalm 139:13-14… “For You created my innermost parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to You, because I am awesomely and wonderfully made...”

We are committed to protecting and honoring life from conception to natural death.

Final Authority and Doctrinal Clarity

The Word of God is our final authority. It is not open to cultural revision or human reinterpretation. The elders of the City of Refuge are entrusted to rightly divide the Word, guard sound doctrine, and lead the church in truth.

2 Timothy 4:2-4… “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season... For the time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine...”

Jude 1:3… “I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all time handed down to the saints.”

We are not ashamed of what we believe. We will stand firm in truth and love, no matter the cost. As a covenant community, we expect every member to affirm and align with these biblical convictions in both belief and lifestyle.

A Biblical Call to Holiness, Accountability, and Spiritual Family

To be a member of the City of Refuge is not to join a club—it is to enter a covenant relationship. We are not just a church you attend—we are a spiritual family you walk with. Covenant membership means we walk together in grace, holiness, love, and mutual accountability, according to the Word of God.

Amos 3:3… “Do two people walk together unless they have agreed to meet?”

Covenant is sacred. It reflects God’s heart and design for community. As believers, we are not meant to live in isolation or individualism, but in committed, God-honoring relationships that sharpen, strengthen, and sanctify us.

Hebrews 10:24-25 (AMPCE)… “And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another… not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers]… but encouraging one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching.”

Statement on Church Discipline

Discipline is not punishment—it is the grace of correction given in love. It exists for the protection of the church, the restoration of the individual, and the honor of Christ’s name. At the City of Refuge, we follow the biblical pattern of church discipline found in Scripture.

Hebrews 12:5-6… “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord… for those whom the Lord loves He disciplines.”

Matthew 18:15-17… “If your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private… if he does not listen, take one or two more… if he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church…”

Discipline is always done with the hope of repentance and restoration. It is never about shame or rejection, but about bringing a wandering believer back into wholeness and alignment with Christ.

Our eldership is committed to carrying out discipline in accordance with the Word of God, with humility, prayer, and a firm commitment to both grace and truth.

Statement on Mediation

As members of the City of Refuge, we agree to resolve our legal disputes through Christian mediation, not secular courts. This reflects our obedience to Scripture and our commitment to peace within the Body of Christ.

1 Corinthians 6:1-7… “Does any one of you, when he has a case against his neighbor, dare to go to law before the unrighteous and not before the saints?... Why not rather be wronged?”

We are a covenant people. We seek biblical resolution through godly counsel and Spirit-led mediation, governed by the principles outlined by the Institute for Christian Conciliation (ICC).

This practice preserves our witness, promotes healing, and keeps our church family aligned with God’s ways.

Walking Together in Holiness, Grace, and Accountability

Our call is not just to believe in Christ, but to become like Him. That happens in the context of a church body—through encouragement, correction, prayer, and accountability.

1 Peter 1:15-16… “But like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written: ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.’”

Galatians 6:1… “Brothers and sisters, even if a person is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual are to restore such a person in a spirit of gentleness…”

Covenant means we don’t walk away when things get tough. It means we stay, love, restore, and grow together. It means we encourage one another to holiness, and we submit ourselves to be lovingly corrected if we stray.

What It Means to Be Part of a Spiritual Family

When you join the City of Refuge, you are not just attending a service—you are being welcomed into a family.

Acts 2:42… “They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”

This family is built on truth that does not compromise, love that does not abandon, grace that does not excuse sin, and accountability that leads to maturity.

We honor covenant. We protect one another. We disciple one another. And we walk in the light—together.

Ephesians 4:15-16… “But speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, that is, Christ… causing the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.”

Covenant means you are never alone. It means you have a place, a people, and a purpose. At the City of Refuge, we will walk with you—encouraging you, correcting you, loving you, and helping you fulfill the call of God on your life.

Discerning Your Covenant Journey

You’ve reached the final step in the City of Refuge New Members Orientation. We pray this information has helped you understand who we are, what we believe, and how we live as a Spirit-led covenant community. Our mission remains clear: to build kingdom people who will strengthen families, impact cities, and glorify God in every generation.

Now comes the moment of reflection and response: is God calling you to walk with this house as a covenant member?

The Meet & Greet: A Time of Connection and Discernment

After completing and submitting your Membership Covenant Submission Form, your next step is a personal Meet & Greet. This in-person gathering is designed to:

• Answer any remaining questions you may have
• Provide an opportunity to share what God has revealed during your walk
• Give you space to connect with leadership and fellow prospective members
• Allow our elders to meet you in-person and prayerfully begin the process of spiritual discernment

Please note: submitting the Membership Covenant Form does not automatically confirm membership. At the City of Refuge, covenant membership is a spiritual commitment that is confirmed only after the elders pray, seek the Lord, and discern His leading concerning your joining this house.

We do this not to exclude, but to honor the sacredness of covenant. As shepherds, our calling is to watch over the flock—not just to receive, but to rightly affirm who the Lord is planting in this field.

Acts 13:2… “While they were serving the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for Me…’”

Just as the early church sought the Spirit’s confirmation before commissioning, we seek His guidance before receiving new covenant members.