Bible Thoughts

July 25, 1999

This passage indicates a problem that existed among the saints in the early century. Paul is teaching these disciples not to follow the custom(habit) that some had fallen into, that is, forsaking the assembling together with other saints. The apostle was pointing out the importance in being considerate of other disciples by being present in order to "provoke unto love and good works." This admonition has been appropriate in every age, and is needed at present.

The word "assembling" indicates an ongoing action. Hit and miss is not the way of fulfilling the admonition of Paul. One is to make plans to be at all services. It will take some time; it will take some preparation; it will take some effort; but--it will be well worth the sacrifice in order to assemble with God's people to worship the Lord and to honor and praise him in the actions of service. Only good can come from being present for all of the services of the local church.

Ten Reasons From Scriptural Principles For Attending All Assemblies(Services)

1. Christ will be present in the assembly. He promised, while upon earth, "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them"(Matthew 18:20). Jesus had been teaching the disciples about meeting his requirements for discipline. Such was to be executed in the assembly of the saints, but he expressed a principle that is true of any approved gathering of God's people.

2. Brethren in Christ will be present each service. "And when they were come and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all things that God had done with them, and that he had opened a door of faith unto the Gentiles"(Acts 14:27). The brethren were eager to hear how Paul and Barnabas had been active in the Lord's work. The interest in one another, and others--such as Paul and Barnabas, brought them together in the Lord's service.

3. An opportunity to study the Word of God with other disciples is available in each service. "And upon the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul discoursed with them, intending to depart on the morrow; and prolonged his speech until midnight. And there were many lights in the upper chamber where we were gathered together"(Acts 20:7-8). All of us need the assistance of others to better understand the scriptures. Spiritual growth comes through our gathering together to learn more about God's word.

4. One can enjoy the fellowship of other Christians at every service. "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and the prayers"(Acts 2:42). The early Christians treasured those moments they had in studying together and sharing spiritual matters. Should it be any different today? When one forsakes an assembly, he/she misses those spiritual benefits.

5. Any assembly of Christians offers an opportunity to sing praises to God. "Speaking one to another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord"(Ephesians 5:19). What a privilege for the disciple. An opportunity to express in song the praises, works, and care of God. (Prayer could also be included.) The Old Testament writer stated he "was glad when they said, Let us go unto the house of God." Should we not also be happy to gather at every opportunity?

6. When we are present for all assemblies, a righteous example is set for all others. "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an ensample to all that believe, in word, in manner of life, in love, in faith, in purity"(I Timothy 4:12). Paul is impressing upon Timothy the power of examples. What does one do to his/her influence by willfully forsaking the assemblies of the saints? Are Christians obligated to fully support the work of the church in all righteous activities by being an example in word and deed?

7. Being present for all assemblies of the local church will strengthen one's faith. "Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might"(Ephesians 6:10). This strength comes from many areas, such as, being with people of like faith, studying together, worshipping together, etc.--all of which can be found in the assemblies.

8. Attending all assemblies encourages others to continue stedfast in the faith. "And we exhort you, brethren, admonish the disorderly, encourage the fainthearted, support the weak, be longsuffering toward all"(I Thessalonians 5:14). Is it encouraging to see all members present at services? Does it give an opportunity to admonish? Will it encourage the weak? Does it not bring a better understanding of others to each of us? Think about the effect that faithful attendance to all services has on others.

9. By being present for all assemblies, you will guide your family to be stronger in the faith. "And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but nurture them in the chastening and admonition of the Lord"(Ephesians 6:4). We teach by example, as well as word. What are we saying to our children when we deliberately forsake the assembling together with other saints?

10. When we attend all of the assemblies, we put the Lord and His Kingdom first and enjoy the blessings He bestows. "But seek ye first his kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you"(Matthew 6:33). What am I doing at service time that is more important than being with the saints in worship and service to God?

In conclusion, can you give ten scriptural reasons for not putting forth an effort to be present for all of the assemblies of the Lord's church?

(Thought question: Would you be willing to appoint a man to be an elder or deacon who does not support the work of the local church by making an effort to be present for all services?)