House Church Talk - public meetings, singing

[Dan Beaty]

Claire,

That Bible study at Starbucks sounds interesting. I think I would be tempted
to investigate.

I agree with you that we should not feel required to sing especially in a
situation like in a restaurant meeting where others there would be disturbed
by it. The way I understand church is that we have freedom in Christ to
sing, pray, prophecy, share a revelation, a teaching according as He has
placed in our hearts with edification and His glorification in mind.

People do tend to want regular singing, even in HC, but we should not feel
required to force it into an inappropriate situation. Meetings in Starbucks
would have to be suited for that situation, IMO. Speaking in tongues, for
example might not be appreciated either!

You wrote:

---- Original Message ----- 
From: "Claire Bennett" <clairebnntt at cox.net>

"I would like to see the park/restaurant meetings as something that the
community can be aware of, and know it is a place they are welcome.  Jesus
went everywhere and fellowshipped among the non-religious, the sinners.  The
problem is, most groups that do this see it as a stepping stone to bigger
and better things :("

This partly what I had in mind. One of the brothers in our fellowship was
involved for some time with a restaurant owner who invited Gospel singers to
come in on Saturday nights. Those who participated had a great time until
the restaurant was sold.

Thanks for sharing the neat story:

"I have a story about singing in a public place.  I was part of a
choir/worship team, many years ago.  We would often go out afterwards for
fellowship and food.  Well, we went into this deli and it was very crowded
and we had to wait a long time.  So, we decided to sing, all of us doing
harmonies and parts, etc.  Patrons came up to comment positively.  However,
one of the people in our group had brought some guests who became
embarrassed and said they would leave if we continued, so, the concert
ended:)"

How ironic!

Dan Beaty
Columbus, Ohio USA
www.livingtruth.com




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