Covenant
Once you’ve decided to make Harbor Church your home, the next step is to join us in a covenant we make together. Download the covenant and read answers to frequently asked questions below.
Download Harbor Covenant (pdf)
What’s a covenant?
In biblical terms, it’s a promise by which two parties obligate themselves to one another in such a way that the obligation of one party is not dependent on the faithfulness of the other (Ezekiel 20:44; 36:22; Psalm 76:11; Hosea 2:19-20; 3:1; 2 Timothy 2:13).
The Harbor covenant is not an agreement made between an individual and an institution, it is made between brothers and sisters in a church family and their Lord.
Why is this kind of covenant necessary in a church?
Three reasons. First, God instituted this covenant. Hebrews 8:8-12 details the new covenant between God and the church that was prophesied by Jeremiah: For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws into their minds, and write them on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Notice how the only singular pronouns in the covenant refer to God. God didn’t make this covenant between himself and individuals… he made it with a people, which demands that we covenant with each other in a church.
Second, the Greek word most often used for “church” in the New Testament is ekklesia, which literally means “the called-out ones.” If we’ve been called out of something (the world), that means we’ve also been called in to something else (the church). In the book of Acts, there is a consistent pattern of new believers joining a local church and covenanting together with that group of believers. Acts 2:42-47 describes the church in Jerusalem committing to fellowship together, study God’s word together, care for each others’ needs, praise God together, and reach their community together.
Third, our church wouldn’t be a church without it. As an Evangelical Free Church, our government is congregational in nature. Harbor wasn’t formed by a bishop’s decree or a presbytery’s vote. It exists because a group of people have joined together for the common cause of worship, fellowship, and ministry. A written covenant is the way we express our commitment to that common cause.
Does it have to be so formal? It feels like I’m getting married or something.
You’re exactly right. In the gospels, Jesus refers to himself many times as the bridegroom. And who is his bride? The church. When you join with other Christians in the church, you’re essentially getting married. And what is it that makes a marriage different from any other kind of relationship? The vows. That’s what a church covenant is like: the necessary commitments of a serious relationship.
Does that mean I’m committing to this church ‘til death do us part?
Of course not. There are sometimes very good reasons why a Christian might be led to commit to another church. But if you do choose to leave Harbor, we would expect to hear your reasons and help you unite with another church where you can live out the same kind of covenant relationship.
What if I don’t like commitments?
You’re not alone. In our individualistic age, we all have commitment-phobia to some degree or another. Committing ourselves to a group of people feels like it might hinder our transient lifestyles. While it might be counter-cultural, it’s what God expects: Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near (Hebrews 10:24-25).
So what’s in it for me?
Ahhhh, there’s that consumeristic individualism again! It’s true, what you’re committing to is greater sacrifice and service on your part. But since you asked, there are a few specific benefits that come with the commitment. The leaders of Harbor commit to pray for you regularly (James 5:14), equip you for service (Ephesians 4:11-13), teach you the whole counsel of Scripture (Acts 20:27-28), guard you against false teaching (Acts 20:28-31), and exercise church discipline when necessary (Matthew 18:15-20). You will also qualify for certain leadership roles that are not open to those who have not committed themselves to the church family through this covenant.
And what if I decide not to commit?
You’re welcome to be an active attender at Harbor, be involved in small-groups and ministries, and volunteer in certain roles. Still, to a certain extent you will remain separated from the maturity, protection, accountability, and care that comes with being an active part of the church. We humbly ask you to examine your motives, recognizing that Christians who consume rather than commit to a church family are doing a disservice to Jesus’ body (the church) and themselves.
All right, you convinced me. How do I take the plunge?
Sign up for a Harbor Bootcamp session. You’ll get intensive training on the values and priorities of our church, along with the implications of the commitment you’re making. Email info@harborhawaii.org for details on the next bootcamp session.
