I wanted to share what a great discussion/conversation I had yesterday with some fellow believers who attend a typical, organizational church. We met at church shortly after moving here to Bayfield, Colorado. But because of numerous doctrinal differences and for the sake of peace, we felt to go another direction. That direction led us back into the scriptures and church in our home. We've maintained a great friendship even though we assemble together differently. I know where they are....they respect where we are. We occaisionally get together for potlucks and yesterday was one of those pleasant times of fellowship. They invited me over to their house for lunch after their service.
I believe I've mentioned to some that I've been seeking the Lord about producing some videos on church according to the scriptures. In my research, I wanted to ask other believers these questions:
1. In your opinion, what do you think is supposed to happen when we come together as the church? 2. Does the Bible give us an outline of what's supposed to happen?
The atmosphere of our fellowship was perfect, and an opportunity for these questions opened up. What followed was one of the most engaging, and fun dialogues in the scriptures I've ever had. I asked these questions and the answers ranged initially from, "Well...uh, worship...preaching... teaching of the Bible...the Pastor giving out the Word to the congregation..." Then when we really focused the answer to what the Bible says...a couple of the folks finally answered very candidly, "I really don't know...that's a very good question."
Eventually, things came back to me, since I asked the question. I restated my whole reason for asking, which was doing research and getting their thoughts and opinions. I didn't raise the question to tell them what I think. But...since they asked me... I told them I belive that I Cor. 14, specifically vs. 26 (in addition to Rom. 12 and I Cor. 12 & 13) gives us a simple outline to follow for when we come together.
Well folks, nearly everyone had an eye opening experience into the Word concerning the blueprints of the church. We conversed for nearly 3 hours, without any heated, contentious words. There were some legitimate concerns brought up, but no angry words. One guy said, "I know I've read that scripture before, but it's never hit me." I thanked them for sharing their thoughts and views...but I also saw lights coming on. I saw that look that said, "This is what the Bible says...How come we're not doing this? What am I going to do with this information (revelation)?
I'm not trying to get anyone to "join me in what I'm doing." That's between them and the Lord. We all must be fully persuaded in our own minds and hearts, knowing that we will all give an account of ourselves. If they feel to do anything different - great! Again, that's between them and God. If they want to talk about this more, I am always open!
I wanted to share this praise because of how God put this together. I haven't pushed home church on anyone. Not going to. But as the Lord directs and doors open, people can hear the word and respond. It wasn't anything I had to "work up". Anytime we can "reason together from the scriptures" we are functioning as the church! I don't know what the end of this conversation will be. But it was a truly great, mutually edifying time in the Lord and in His word! It was church - by the Book! Glory to God!
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