by Herbert W. Armstrong

Some have been supposed to be considered in the NON-Scriptural category of “inactive members.” There is no such status given us in the Word of God. The assumption of such status has never been official, nor authorized by me or the Word of God.

Therefore I announce officially that no such status exists, and any such unauthorized status is hereby discontinued.

The Bible plainly reveals that those who “ARE CHRIST’S” are members in the Church. But WHO are Christ’s? NOT those baptized in water. But, “by ONE SPIRIT [the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD] are we all baptized [inducted into] one body” (I Cor. 12:13). And, “Ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, IF so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, HE IS NONE OF HIS” (Rom. 8:9) – and “there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care (love) one for another.” (I Cor. 12:25).

Either a member has and is led by the Spirit of God, and therefore is CHRIST’S and a member of His spiritual Body, the Church, or else that person IS NOT a member.

Therefore the so-called status of “Inactive Member” is ABOLISHED, and all so listed are simply not members.