Page 1 - Taking Part in the Assembly Meetings | Truth & Tidings
P. 1
Have you ever wondered mentions in the chapter). And while we
how to know when to take don’t think of this principle so much with
part in a meeting? It isn’t respect to the remembrance of the Lord,
sweaty palms or nervous- there is an aspect of it which does apply
ness rising to a crescendo. even there.
Nor is it some internal voice which tells
you that you better get up or else. Nor is There were some serious problems in
it mere determination that you are going Corinth. As you read through the epistle
to get up and take part. Come ready, but up to chapter 14, you cannot help but
not resolved, to take part. notice the competitive spirit, the confu-
sion, and the lack of consideration. In this
There is actually one chapter in the vital chapter Paul had to give instruction
Bible which is devoted to participation in concerning tongues and sisters taking
public meetings. It may surprise you that part. Amidst the disorder, he was trying
this chapter says nothing about the Holy to introduce an order which would re-
Spirit (although He is definitely involved). flect the character of God. But amidst his
It says nothing about themes to a meeting instructions, certain vital principles are
(although there frequently is one directed evident in regard to public participation.
by the Spirit, and not by men); and there is If you read the chapter carefully, you may
no mention of time or length of participa- well be able to add to my short list.
tion. And finally, there is mention of gift
only when it comes to teaching, not pray- It might be helpful to survey the chap-
ing or suggesting a hymn. ter first and notice some of activities
which were carried out in the assembly
In 1 Corinthians 14, we discover a at Corinth. Paul speaks of praying (v14),
number of principles to guide regarding singing (v15), blessing or speaking well of
participation in a public meeting, be it the (v16), of giving thanks (v17), and of teach-
Breaking of Bread, prayer, or ministry. ing (v19). These were some of the elements
When it comes to ministry or teaching of each of the gatherings of the believers.
of the Word of God, the key word, em- On reflection, these are the very same
phasized again and again, is edification activities that mark out assemblies today.
or profit (see, for example, the seven