We are an autonomous church. That means we are a self-governing body with no higher supreme earthly being or "national headquarters" to whom we must answer to. There is no earthly authority superior to the elders of the local church. Jesus Christ is the head of the church and it is to God that we must one day give an account.

We do not "join" the church of Christ. We are added to the church upon baptism.

The New Testament tells how you may be added to the Lord's church:

Hear the Gospel. "How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher?Romans 10:14).

Believe. "And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6).

Repent of past sins. "Therefore having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent."(Acts 17:30).

Confess Jesus as Lord. "As they went along the road they came to some water; and the eunuch said, "Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?" And Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." (Acts 8:36-37).

Be baptized for the remission of sins. "Peter said to them, "Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ."(Acts 2:38).

Continue to live the Christian life. "But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9).