When we talk about salvation, we often focus on forgiveness. And that matters. Deeply.

But the gospel does more than wipe away sin. The gospel restores relationship.

Ephesians 2 tells us that in Christ, we move from being strangers to being family. From outsiders to members of God’s household. That is not just legal language. That is relational language.

Salvation is adoption.

God does not bring us into His family reluctantly. He does not keep us at arm’s length. He does not place us in the corner and hope we behave. He welcomes us fully. He gives us His name. He pulls up a chair and invites us to the table.

Jesus tells this story beautifully in Luke 15. The prodigal son comes home expecting a lecture. Instead, he finds a father who has been watching, waiting, and running to meet him. No shame. No delay. Just restoration and celebration.

Grace does not shame you at the door.
Grace puts you in a chair.

That is the posture the church is called to reflect.

The church is not a courtroom where people are judged.
It is not a country club with membership requirements.
It is a family built on grace.

People are far more likely to come home to God when they experience a healthy, loving church family. No one wants to belong to a toxic environment. People can sense when a church is divided, cold, or closed off.

But they can also sense warmth. Joy. Genuine care.

When a church loves well, welcomes generously, and lives with unity, it becomes a powerful picture of the gospel.

That is why membership matters. Not as paperwork. Not as control. But as covenant.

Membership says, these are my people. I will walk with them. I will love them. I will not disappear when things get hard.

At the table, everyone matters. Every seat counts.

And maybe today, God is inviting you to come home.