What To Do When We Gather
In an age of endless entertainment and constant innovation, it's easy to wonder if our church gatherings should follow suit. Should we spice things up with dramas, interpretive dances, or even snake handling? While these elements might add excitement, they miss the heart of what church gatherings are truly about.
The Bible provides clear guidance on what should happen when believers come together. Far from being a list of individual instructions, passages like 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 offer a blueprint for how local churches should structure their gatherings:
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil."
This passage reveals four main ingredients of faithful church gatherings:
1. Praise
The command to "rejoice always" is not about forcing individual happiness, but rather an invitation to joyful, corporate worship. Our gatherings should be marked by celebration, even in the face of difficulties. But how should this praise be expressed?
The New Testament gives us a clear answer: through singing. Ephesians 5:19 and Colossians 3:16 instruct us to address one another "in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord." This congregational singing should be inclusive, allowing everyone to participate regardless of musical ability. The focus should be on biblically rich lyrics that teach and encourage, spanning a variety of styles and tempos.
2. Prayer
When we read "pray without ceasing," it's not a call for individuals to pray 24/7, but rather an instruction for churches to weave prayer throughout their gatherings. This can take various forms:
- Prayers of praise, focusing on God's character
- Prayers of confession, humbly acknowledging sin
- Intercessory prayers, bringing requests before God
- Prayers of thanksgiving after hearing God's Word
To truly engage in corporate prayer, we should actively pray alongside the person leading, saying "Amen" aloud to affirm our agreement. Churches should also provide opportunities for different members to lead in prayer, fostering a sense of shared ministry.
3. Thanksgiving
The Greek word for "thanksgiving" used here is "eucharistia," which early Christians associated with the Lord's Supper (Communion). This sacrament serves as a powerful, visual representation of the gospel, reminding us of Christ's sacrifice and our unity in Him.
When we partake in Communion, we should do so with:
- Contentment: Recognizing it as Jesus' chosen way to remember Him
- Joy: While solemn, it should not feel like a funeral
- Faithfulness: Regularly participating as we gather with fellow believers
4. Word
In the early church, before the New Testament was completed, God spoke through prophets during gatherings. Today, we have the full, written Word of God. Our gatherings should center on the reading, explanation, and application of Scripture.
As we listen to sermons or teachings, we should:
- Test everything against the standard of God's Word
- Actively engage, keeping our Bibles open and minds alert
- Hold fast to biblical truth, seeking ways to apply it in our lives
The beauty of these four ingredients – praise, prayer, thanksgiving, and the Word – is their simplicity and power. When faithfully practiced, they provide everything necessary for a spiritually nourishing church gathering.
Reflection and Application:
1. Singing: Do you actively participate in congregational singing, regardless of your perceived musical ability? How can you engage more fully in this act of corporate worship?
2. Prayer: During times of corporate prayer, do you find your mind wandering? Practice praying along silently with the person leading, making their words your own.
3. Thanksgiving: When was the last time you participated in Communion? Reflect on its significance and approach it with both reverence and joy the next time it's offered.
4. Word: How do you prepare your heart to receive God's Word during church gatherings? Consider reading the passage in advance or committing to discuss the sermon with others afterward.
5. Simplicity: Are there elements in your church gatherings that might distract from these core practices? How can you help foster an environment focused on these essentials?
6. Community: Remember that these instructions are given to the church as a whole. How can you encourage and build up others in your congregation as you engage in these practices together?
As we embrace these biblical elements in our church gatherings, we create space for God to work powerfully in our midst. We grow in unity, are strengthened in faith, and are equipped to live out the gospel in our daily lives. Let's recommit ourselves to these simple yet profound practices, trusting that God will use them to transform us individually and as a community of believers.