Isn't that exactly what Rick Warren forces you to sign?
Jumping in late and having not read the entire conversation... do you mean "sign" literally? I've been a Saddleback member since 1999 and I've never signed any kind of covenant. Forgive me if that's not what you meant; I don't have time to go back and reread the discussion. Fifty new emails await me...
Have a great day, everyone! Day 24 of measurable rain in Seattle. Don't move here. :-)
He does not force any one to sign anything. If you want to be part of the small group bible study then you agree with those in the group to accountable, just like in any other commitment. It has made our bible studies more intentional rather than the usual convenience. People used to wander in 15-20 minutes late unprepared until they commited themselves to being there prepared and on time and if they could not come notifying the bible study leader. We call it consideration for the others in the study. If you want to be a member of the church you agree with the covenant. If you don't agree you don't have to join but you can still attend and be part of the bible studies.