If the temple of God is within us, why do we go to church?
The bible says that we are the temple of God (1 corinth 3:16)…. if so, what is the purpose of going to church. why do you go to church?
And if we are the temple of God, what does that make the church building? ….. the house of God?
OUR RESPONSE
The reason for our question is this;
A great number of us go to church on sundays as if it is some kind of task that needs getting out of the way. Many also perceive the church building to be the place where God resides and by going there, they are going to ‘meet with God’.
Infact, where 2 or more are gathered, that is a church; no matter where it is. The building in itself is NOT the house of God.
So, three reasons why we should go to church: to fellowship, growth and building up of others.
1) FELLOWSHIP – This being the most obvious one, we wont be touching on it. (1 Cor 12:12-31, Romans 12:3-8)
2) GROWTH – The purpose of growth is for us to be deeply rooted in the word of God enough that it will be impossible for anything or anybody to sway us (too many false doctrines)…. Eph 4:14-16, 2 Peter 1:5-11
It is irrelevant that pastors may be teaching the wrong things, we are ALL required to study the bible – Hebrews 5:12 “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food”.
Acts 17:11 “These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so”
1 Peter 2:1-3 “Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious”.
3) BUILDING UP OF OTHERS – We are supposed to help others to grow – Romans 15:1-2 “We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification” for example, those who are stronger in faith or more learned in the word should be able to help others who are weaker.
To conclude, bible study is in fact the most important in the life of a christian and not just sunday fellowship as most of us like to believe, hence this blog.
notsamson 
Well macadmaia nuts, how about that.
Now I’m like, well duh! Truly thanukfl for your help.
With the bases loaded you struck us out with that awsenr!
Could you write about Phsicys so I can pass Science class?
Loooooool. God bless you (Kaden), thank God for technology, we get to meet people like you. I can’t stop smiling.
People nroalmly pay me for this and you are giving it away!
Very true! Makes a change to see soomene spell it out like that. 🙂
Thank you for the opportunity to share Notsamson…when God is talking about the Temple He is not talking about the outer shell that is wasting away or the physical body, He is referring to the spirit, the soul, the mind and heart, these are the Temple. What we focus on in our heart will affect the others and produce feelings that motivate us and will be shown in our actions.
As Christians we are the Body of Christ, His Church, His hands, arms, feet and voice and He equips us through The Spirit to do the good works prepared in advance for us to do. We are to uplift, encourage, support, correct, warn and comfort each other and much more through the good and the bad. Jesus was the fulfilment of the Sabbath under the New Covenant the early Church meet everyday of the week, because in Christ Jesus every day is Holy and He is our rest.
To sum up those who are The real Church of Christ are drawn together from every Tribe and Nation and of course every Denomination and house Church and they are Born again of God’s seed and perfected in Love and have the same mind and focus and we are known as…..
1 Peter 2 : 9-10 But ye are a Chosen Generation, a Royal Priesthood, an Holy Nation, a Peculiar People; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light; Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
Christian Love Anne.
well done. again, thank you for your contribution. keep them coming
I’m shocked that I found this info so elaisy.
thanx for stopping by. pls stay tuned for more.
Cool! That’s a clever way of lokoing at it!
It’s imperative that more peploe make this exact point.
Wham bam thank you, ma’am, my quseotnis are answered!
Yo, that’s what’s up turhftully.
NOTSAMSON
I know the Colossians reference, but it makes no mention of doing away with Holy Days, only not to let people judge you concerning them.
I understand your interpretation, but I don’t think it is the only possible meaning. A change in Holy Days would be just as possible a reason for Paul making this statement, as I have said earlier.
ok.. well i am not exactly saying to not acknowledge it but rather, more concerned with the purpose, which i believe is to always come together in the name of the Lord (willingly), if possible everyday, then so be it. which you also had previously mentioned. my thing is the issue of waiting till sunday to “become a christian”, then the rest of the week, we are back in “our reality”.
I agree that this is a problem. However, it is not what I would advocate. Every action we perform, and every thought we have, should be to the glory of God.
I am a student, and when I take a class in European History I do so to the glory of God, for I am learning of the history of his creations and his children to better understand how to serve them. When I take a class on biology I do so to the glory of God, for I am learning his works and my part in them.
When I graduate and take a job I will seek one that I can perform to His glory. I will raise my children to His glory. When I watch TV I seek out those shows that do not degrade my soul, so that I can do so to His glory.
Every action I take every day must be to His glory, or it will condemn me at the final judgment. I must be a ‘Christian’ every day and in every deed.
However, it is once a week that I gather with His saints to devote a single day exclusively to Him and his gospel; to fulfilling those things that I generally cannot do the rest of the week.
God bless you for sharing once again.. However, the purpose of our post is not to accuse or question anyone’s visit to the church; who made us the “gospel police”?, but rather to shine more light on the importance of the everyday living of the people, not the building.
That being said, i’ll have to disagree with your statement on devoting a single day to the gospel as you have taken numerous time out to discuss the word of God on this forum. i think this will also qualify as fellowship. Hence, the reason for the blog.
Pls come back soon. many thanks.
NOTSAMSON
You asked “why we think God commanded that we observe a certain day in the first place…. what do you think?”
I think it is fairly simple. Because of the conditions of mortality our lives are filled with the needs of survival and industry. It is part of the Lord’s plan for us to have families and raise children. In order to do this we must uphold society, and we must work in the mortal world for the physical salvation of our family and neighbors.
However, if we do this to the exclusion of revering, worshiping and serving God we neglect the weightier matters of spiritual salvation. While we are to be constantly remembering God, and every day should be filled with prayers offered to him, we still need one day that is wholly devoted to the service of God. It is in this day that we renew our spirits, gain the strength of fellowship, and enlighten our minds concerning things of the spirit.
While these things can, and should be done everyday, the needs of mortality make such very difficult, and the benefits only slight. One day reserved for this can do what no amount of time otherwise could accomplish.
mmm.. makes sense (shematwater) but the new testament stated that we ought to do away with the observation of Holy days.. hence my question, why then did God command it in the first place, only to now later say no need… my take is perharps we missed the point (something about what Jesus said on the subject).
However, i like your response. pls keep them coming.
Where in the New Testament does it say to due away with Holy Days? I do not remember reading this.
I do admit that many of the Holy Days proscribed in the Law of Moses were done away with, as they were commemorating events that were unique to the Jews. However, the Sabbath was a Holy Day long before the Jews ever existed, being instituted during the creation of the Earth. In fact, when Paul writes to the Colossians he makes a distinction between the Sabbath and other Holy Days.
I don’t God ever intended anyone to give up observance of the Sabbath.
colossians 2:16-17/// Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.
I feel we missed the point as Jesus’ reply would suggest, when He was accused of breaking the Laws on sabbath… He said that “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” mark 2:27.
This forum nedeed shaking up and you’ve just done that. Great post!
It’s hard for me to feel at home in a church. In fact, I feel rather uncomfortable because there is a lot of religiosity going on in the churches I’ve been to. I’ve been to hundreds of churches around the world, and I haven’t really felt the presence of God. I have, however, felt the presence of God at home, or in my high school small group. If two or more gather, Christ will be there with them. Christians don’t have to assemble in a church building by the masses. Just two people, that’s all it takes. Cool question, keep them coming! Cheers.
thank you so much for the encouragement and for sharing (Jan Simson). thank God for technology. pls stay tuned for more questions, looking forward to learning from each other.
This piece was a lifejacket that saved me from drnowing.
Holy shzniit, this is so cool thank you.
Scripture also warns us, “Do not forsake the gathering together of the saints, and watch and pray, are two more reasons to attend church.
We need to know one anthers needs in order to meet those needs, church facilities an opportunity to do that. And as someone already mentioned, unity is a major factor for Christians. We must be on one accord to affect people and events in this world.
Moreover, hearing the preached Word is the primary path to salvation and or deliverance from issues.
Hence attend church because “When two or more agree”…
Let me say it how I see it then.
First, I don’t think the Bible is clear enough for us to determine which day the early saints observed as their weekly Holy Day. There is enough evidence to support either position given, with neither side having more than the other.
Second, I really don’t think it matters. From the beginning God has commanded his saints to reserve one day in every seven as set apart for Him, and I don’t think he cares which of the seven that is. All he cares about is that his saints are unified as to the day they will worship him.
This is what I think Paul was trying to teach in Colossians. Let no man judge you in respect of Holy Days; or don’t let other men tell you that one day is more desirable to worship on than another. As long as the church itself is united, or gathers for worship on the same day, which day it is means very little.
thanx again… don’t think it matters neither. According to paul, as you have illustrated… if we choose to gather everyday, so be it, there is nothing particular about sunday. but that being said, i wonder why we think God commanded that we observe a certain day in the first place…. what do you think?
Touchdown! That’s a really cool way of ptuntig it!
Love this post. You are right; the four walls of the church doesn’t make the church…it’s God’s followers that do. We must continue to worship, fellowship, and witness if order to build up His righteous kingdom.
Thank u so much for dropping in Keisha… Pls stay tuned for more questions.
Gee whiz, and I thgohut this would be hard to find out.
Articles like this really grease the sahtfs of knowledge.
Hi shematwater
If my response gave the impression that, I was in any way judgemental, then I unreservedly apologise. I have absolutely no authority to judge anyone for their beliefs.
I sincerely hope my further response to your comments will be received in the same spirit as that in which they are written.
Sometimes Revelation 1:10 is used as Bible authority for calling Sunday “the Lord’s DAY.” It says: “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice ….”
However, this does not say the “first day of the week,” or “Sunday,” is the “day” here called “the Lord’s day.” As a matter of fact, it is not speaking of ANY day of the week at all, but of “the day of the Lord”—the time of the coming PLAGUES, climaxing in the coming of Christ, and the Millennium. This is the THEME of the Revelation. However, if one wants to disagree, and insist upon this text applying to some definite day of the week, then one needs to look elsewhere to see WHICH day THE BIBLE calls the LORD’S DAY. For this text does not designate ANY day of the week.
1 Corinthians 16:2: “Upon the FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him ….”
Often we see this text printed on the little offering envelopes in the pews of popular churches, and we have been told that this text sets THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK as the time for taking up the church collection for the carrying on of God’s work, paying the minister, etc.
Let us begin with the first verse and really catch the true intended meaning of this verse.
“Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.”
This speaks of a collection, but for WHOM, for WHAT?
Not for the preacher, not for evangelism, but “the collection FOR THE SAINTS.”
The poor saints at Jerusalem were suffering from drought and famine. They needed, not money, but FOOD. Notice Paul had given similar instruction to other churches. Now observe his instruction to the Romans:
“But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints. For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia [where the Corinthian church was located] to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. … When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain” (Romans 15:25-28).
It was not money, but FRUIT that was being sealed for shipment to the poor saints at Jerusalem! (The Greek word can also refer to grain, wine, and other produce which can be stored a long time without spoiling.)
Now turn back to 1 Corinthians 16. Paul is speaking concerning a collection FOR THE SAINTS.
Upon the first day of the week, each one of them is instructed to do what?
Does it say drop a coin in the collection plate at a church service?
It says, “[L]et every one of you lay by him in STORE.” Note it! LAY BY! STORE UP! Store up BY HIMSELF—at home! Not lay by at the church house—lay by HIM—at home.
WHY? – “[T]hat there be no GATHERINGS when I come.”
Men GATHER fruit out of the orchard—they GATHER vegetables out of the ground, to be STORED UP. However, putting coins in a collection plate at church, or handing in your tithe envelope could not be called a GATHERING, but an offering or collection.
Notice further: “And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem. And if it be meet that I go also, they [more than one] shall go with me” (verses 3-4).
Apparently, it was going to require several men to carry this collection, gathered and stored up, to Jerusalem. If it were tithe or offering for the minister or the spread of the gospel, Paul could have carried the money alone.
So, once again, the last and final text in the Bible where we find “THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK” mentioned, it is a WORKDAY—a day for gathering fruit and food out of the orchards and the fields and gardens, and storing it up. It was to be the FIRST labour of the week, hence the first day of the week, as soon as the Sabbath was past!
Matthew 28:1: “In the end of the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.”
This is the first place in the Bible where “the first day of the week” is mentioned.
Mark 16:2: “And very early in the morning THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.”
This is merely Mark’s version of the sunrise visit to the tomb. It was written 10 years after the crucifixion. This first day of the week, also, was “WHEN the Sabbath was PAST,” according to verse 1.
So, this text proves the same thing as the one above—that the first day of the week was not at that time (three days after the crucifixion) the Sabbath, but the day AFTER the Sabbath. The Sabbath, then, still was the SEVENTH day of the week.
Luke 24:1: “Now UPON THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.”
This text tells again the same event recorded by Matthew and Mark, and it shows that on THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK these women came to do the work of a common weekday, AFTER having rested the Sabbath day “according to the commandment.” We read, in the verse just before this, “And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the Sabbath day according to the commandment.”
Acts 20:7: “And upon THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight. And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.”
Here, at last, we find a religious meeting on the first day of the week – But it was not a SUNDAY meeting!
Notice, Paul continued his speech until midnight! “And there were many LIGHTS in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.” It was AFTER SUNSET, prior to midnight, the first day of the week. Now at that time the first day of the week did not begin at midnight, as men begin it today. It began, and the seventh day ended, AT SUNSET! All Bible days begin and end at SUNSET. Throughout the Roman world at that time, and for a few hundred years afterwards, days began and ended at sunset. The practice of beginning the new day at midnight was started much later. Therefore, this meeting, and Paul’s preaching, took place during the hours we now call SATURDAY NIGHT—it was not a Sunday meeting at all!
Colossians 2:16 was written as a warning to the Gentile Christians at Colosse to protect them from false teachers—teachers who were subtly perverting the message Paul taught. Notice what Paul wrote: “Let no MAN therefore judge you in meat, or in drink [margin—for eating or drinking], or in respect of an holy day, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days”
There is no mention of the abolition of God’s law or His Holy days. Nothing is done away in these verses. In fact, it is just the opposite. The very criticism the Colossians were receiving about their observance of these days proves they WERE keeping them. How could they be criticized “with regard to” days they were not keeping?
The once-pagan Colossians never kept these holy days of God before! They were heathen prior to conversion. Now that they had learned the gospel, they were keeping holy the days God made holy. Paul is warning them not to return to or be influenced by their old pagan ways—the ways of those who hated God’s laws and His festivals.
The watchword here must be: CONTEXT
Taking all things into context nothing you say actually proves the meaning of the verses I gave to be anything other than what I said.
Revelation 1: 10
In context this particular verse is not part of the great vision of John, but is part of the salutation that he opens his litter with, and through which he introduces that vision. On the day that the vision was opened to him he was on the Island of Patmos (vs. 9) and while in the spirit on the Lord’s day he had this vision.
The context of this verse establishes this as a day of the week that was well known to the seven churches that he was writing too, as no explanation is given. Thus they knew and understood the reference. As it is referenced as being the setting in which the vision was given, and not as part of the vision (which begins in verse 11) it cannot be referring to the final day or the millennium.
Now, I believe this is a reference to the first day of the week, because it was the first day of the week that Christ rose from the dead, as you have so nicely explained with all the references in the four gospels. If it had been the sabbath it would have been referenced as the Sabbath. Since this reference is not there the logical reference is to the first day of the week.
1 Corinthians 16: 1-2
You are very correct that this is dealing primarily with the collection for the saints, or what one might call the tithes and offerings that God has always required at the hands of his saints.
The question then becomes, why this day? We are not talking about a harvest, but of a weekly gathering. As such to apply this to crops of any kind does not work.
I also have to disagree with you in that a collection of money can be considered a gathering. It is not a harvest, but it is a gathering of the resources of the people into one place for the use of others.
To go back to the question of why the first day, as it is obviously not talking about harvests, as you claim, than could it not be a gathering that does not require the kind of work that is forbidden on the sabbath. If so than why not gather it on the sabbath when everyone is coming together anyway?
There had to be a reason for Paul to direct this on the first day of the week, and it being the first day of work doesn’t really satisfy the point. Maybe they were gathering clothes that the tailors had sewn during the week; or tools; or furniture that had been made. It doesn’t say what they are gathering, only that it should be done in order, and to accomplish this it is all done on the same day.
The context of these verses does not make your explanation any more satisfying than mine.
Acts 20: 7
I am well acquainted with the way days are measured in the Bible. But nothing you say really means anything.
They were gathered together on the first day of the week. You assume this gathering began during the first half of the day, meaning the dark hours. I would disagree. In fact it would not be very common for an official meeting to begin at this time.
You use as your proof that he spoke until midnight. However, he could have started speaking during the daylight hours on the first day of the week and continued to speak until midnight, without changing the meaning of the words.
Just compare this to the modern day. An event may be scheduled for one day, but may last until one or two in the morning. Thus it would have technically carried into the next day, but it is never described as a such. It is described as having been on the day it started, and lasting until the time of day it ended. It will not be described as lasting two days, unless it lasts into the daylight hours of the next day.
Now, my evidence for it being the weekly, Sunday service is the fact that it was the day they had gathered to break bread, or partake of the sacrament that Christ had instituted.
So, Paul met with these saints in their weekly meeting, and he spoke for several hours, even lasting until midnight. We know it was an extremely long time as Eutychus fell asleep.
In the context of breaking bread, and the measuring of time, it seems clear that this was indeed the Sunday service that Paul was attending.
Colo0ssians 2: 16
Again I have to disagree. A man can be judged for not keeping holy days. Indeed, much of the Law of Moses addressed the act of not keeping the Sabbath day or the other Holy Days.
The Jews criticized the Gentiles for not keeping the Law of Moses, part of which was the observance of a number of holy days. Thus, if the gentiles were gathering and worshiping of the first day of the week, rather than the seventh, they would have been severely criticized, and most likely in the same fashion that you are criticizing me (not that I am insulted, or that you are being rude).
To give a personal experience, I and my church have been criticized for not observing Good Friday.
Your interpretation of this verse assumes that which cannot be assumed. In context, they could have been criticized for this very thing, and thus my interpretation stands.
Pleasure talking to you.
Pleasure talking to you too shematwater,
I expect the mysteries of Christ will be discussed and disagreed upon until the’Day’ He returns, just as they have been throughout the ages.
If we agree to disagree, then hopefully TIME will provide the answers for us both.
Warmest regards
John
I can agree to that.
No more s***. All posts of this qaulity from now on
You keep it up now, unrdseatnd? Really good to know.
thank u loads guys (John Graham & Shematwater) for taking your time to enlighten us, but pls let me encourage you (us) to speak ur mind without apprehension.
we are all learning.. nobody knows it all. pls lets lay aside our emotions and tell it like it we see it.
You’re the graeetst! JMHO
Yeah that’s what I’m talinkg about baby–nice work!
That’s the best aswenr of all time! JMHO
I was looking eveyrwhere and this popped up like nothing!
Thank God! Someone with brains sepaks!
The church is the members (many) and one head(Jesus Christ) – called congregation in OT era.
Much like a school that is comprised of pupils, teachers and one head – it is not a building.
Who made Sunday the Lord’s weekly Sabbath?
It will not be found in any Book of Scripture – it is man made.
Jesus Christ kept the Jewish weekly and annual Holy Days, even though He disagreed with the way the Pharisees and Sadducee’s administered His church(temple).
Do the Scriptures reveal to us that Jesus Christ started a new Church that should observe completely alien Holy Days along with a host of other ordinances that have no scriptural authenticity. – I do not think so.
Food for thought perhaps?
John
While Christ did indeed observe the Sabbath while in life, the Lord’s Day, as mentioned in Revelation 1: 10, is the first day of the week, being the day Christ was resurrected, as well as the day the Apostles received the Holy Ghost at Pentecost.
The observance of the first day of the week is seen in 1 Corinthians 16: 1-2 in which it states “Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye.
Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.”
Again in Acts 20: 7 we read that “And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.”
The Lord’s Day is distinguished from the Sabbath in Colossians 2: 16 “Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days”
In this Paul is telling the people not to let people judge them for what they eat, what they drink, or what days they observe as Holy.
I take all this to indicate that the Christians, who wished to be distinguished from the false religion of Jews at that time, switched observance of the Sabbath to observance of the Lord’s Day, and they received a great persecution for it.
Having said this, I am curious as to why the mention of ordinances and holy days was brought up. It doesn’t seem to be directly concerned with the subject at hand.
Right up my street mr Graham… thank u so much for sharing. pls stay tuned for other questions and the responses of others and ours.
mmm… very enlightening shemawater. never thought of that. thank you so much for that.
At last! Someone who undesrtands! Thanks for posting!
Hot damn, loonkig pretty useful buddy.
I don’t want to argue, but I think there is plenty of evidence in the New Testament itself to show a very well organized churched at the time of the Apostles. Just because we have no direct description of it we should not assume that it did not exist.
I have also seen other interpretation of the parable of the mustard seed. It explained that the tree is the true church, and when the true church is on the earth angels (represented by the birds) will minister to the faithful.
As I say, I do not want to argue. I simply present an alternate understanding of the scriptures.
Not sure you understand our views. Ofcourse there are churches in the new testament, the purpose of the question is to highlight the fact that the actual buildings are not the church but the people.. pls refer to the response of Pam Sheppard, below.
Did God not say He does not dwell in a building built by the hands of man?
Furthermore, pls let me encourage you not to shy away from arguing your views, pls let’s do away with old traditions. i have heard pastors telling people they are not permitted to argue about scriptures, this a complete lie. A form of having complete control over their customers (sorry, congregation).
if we spoke-up more, churches today might not be in the position they currently are. we christians need to learn to stand up for our beliefs.
Too many people have been demonised for arguing the scripture.
what then do you make of this Acts 17:1-3 “NOW AFTER [Paul and Silas] had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews. And Paul entered, as he usually did, and for three Sabbaths he reasoned and argued with them from the Scriptures, Explaining [them] and [quoting passages] setting forth and proving that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead, and saying, This Jesus, Whom I proclaim to you, is the Christ (the Messiah).” AMP version.
No one knows it all, so pls share your views so that we can all grow. Iron sharpeneth iron.
Oh, I understand your views, and I was not arguing anything different. As I said in a previous post the building itself doesn’t truly matter, but is merely a thing of convenience for the saints, so that they are not relying on the charity of others for a place to meet.
I guess I was a little confusing, as I didn’t attactch my comment to the one I was commenting on, which was the one by Pam Shepherd.
Pam Sheppherd said “when the scripture was written the organized church and its various buildings, sects, and denominations did not even exist. Gathering or assembling together can be by 2 or 3 for the word says in so doing He is in the midst. In our day and time 2 or 3 can “assemble” in the home, at McDonalds, or on the world wide web.”
My point is that, while all the buildings may not have existed, the organized church did exist, with its several division and callings, such as Elders, Bishops, and all the rest. Now, I may have misunderstood Pam, but it seemed as if they were saying that such organization did not exist until the time of the Chatholic church.
The people are most definitley the Church of Christ, and from the time that Christ began to preach they have been organized into groups and areas unto the authority of designated leaders and ministers. This is all I was saying in regards to this topic.
ofcourse, you are completely right. Misunderstood you intially. thanks for taking the time out to share with us.
God bless you.
The church building is a place set apart for the meeting of the saints, and as such is also the property of God, in a more literal sense. It is a place to gather and be strengthen through association with other saints.
Remember Elijah. Without this association our power to resist evil is weakened and our chances of falling increase incredibly. I go to church to recieve instruction in the Gospel, but primarily to enjoy the company of the saints and strengthen my own will to obey God.
People can talk all they want about having God dwelling in them, but He will not dwell in an unclean temple, and it is up to us to keep our temples clean so that he can dwell with us. If we do not meet oft our temples will become filthy and we will drive him away.
However, I will say that the building itself is not really important. I have met in several different buildings, and am currently meeting in the building of a different denomination, as our building was destroyed in recent tornado activity. It is the meeting that matters, not the building. Having a building for that purpose is just more convenient than having to borrow of rent one.
Another great answer.. thanks 4 sharing and pls stay tuned 4 others’ views and ours. thanks alot
It’s wnoedrufl to have you on our side, haha!
Wow! Great tnkhiing! JK
God said we should not forsake our gathering,and He said,where 2 or 3 are gathered in one mind and in unity,He is there to answer their prayers,so i gather HE likes our gathering.
true… thanks for sharing that. was hoping we can dig a little deeper tho. surely, that can’t be the only reason why we or you, go to church…
pls stay tuned for others’ replies and ours too. thanks again 4 dropn in
The term “gathering” or “assembling” does not presuppose that it meant “going to church.” In fact, when the scripture was written, the organized church and its various buildings, sects, denominations did not even exist. Gathering or assembling together can be by 2 or 3 for the word says that in do doing, He is in the midst. In our day and time, 2 or 3 can “assemble in the home, at McDonalds or on the worldwide web.
In the parable of the mustard seed, it is clear that the Lord knew what would become of the organized church. Starting out in an unorganized way was the mustard seed of the 120 believers who were in the upper room, who turned the world upside down, preaching the gospel without church buildings. Form its modest beginnngs, the trunk of the tree symbolizes the Catholic church, the many branches, the Protestant church, and the birds of the air symbolizes demons, as Jesus explained later on in the same 13th chapter of Matthew. In the 21st century, the organized church has become a dwelling place of demons. It is dangerous for the elect of God to gather behind its walls.
Thank you so much for that… good to have this coming from a minister. God bless and continue to strengthen you madam. pls stay tuned for our response
Samson…good thoughts on Church. Deep subject! After Christ ascended and His Holy Spirit returned at Pentecost and indwelled the true believers, their bodies became Temples of God…Body of Christ. They came out of their old religions/beliefs and became ‘a separate people.’ They healed the sick, cast out devils, sold everything and gave to the poor…had all things common. They ‘failed not to assemble’ themselves for strength, for edification, for receiving spiritual food from God by way of His Holy Spirit within. Many were killed for their testimony…including most of the apostles…and they counted it all joy. They were in the world but not of the world. And they were few. Many of our established churches of today are offspring of the early beginning and the Gospel of Christ. But in the passing of time many of these churches went the way of Ephesus and left the First Love and have only a form of godliness but denying the Power. We are, for the most part, fruitless…barron. Our vessel that should be the temple of God is used to serve mammon rather than God. I have become painfully aware that I am one of these powerless and pathetic replicas of a true Christian. I don’t answer for any others…only myself. I don’t have time to speak to the sins of others when my own is so very displeasing to God. Of southern baptist heritage and Methodist experience, I am solely seeking relationship with the Living Christ. I am seeking for Him to indwell my temple so I can be His hands, His feet, His heart, His mouth and HIs Light to a dark and dying world. I have no problem at all with Church. I met Christ at Church when I was nine. I learned of scripture, friendship, community…there. But I had to learn for myself that Church is not salvation. Relationship with Christ is salvation…His moving me from death to Life.I believe that holiness is the outcome of fellowship/relationship with Christ in obedient adoration. I believe Christ continues to desire that we ‘do greater works’ than He ….by His Spirit. The problem with Church today is that it consists mostly of people like me. I can’t change Church. I can’t change the world. But God demands that I change me….and I’m barely managing that. But now..the desire of my heart is to be Christ-like…regenerated…transformed into His image.
…. with teary eyes, in all humility. Thank you so much for sharing that. God help us all. I am so moved into pouring out my heart now, but still must wait for the views of others…
pls stay tuned for others’ views and our response too. God bless you.
Please keep thoriwng these posts up they help tons.
Will do, by the grace of God. You are too kind.. thank you so much for stopping by. pls stay tuned for more.
I can’t hear aynthing over the sound of how awesome this article is.
At last, smoenoe comes up with the “right” answer!
The temple is the house of God. This is stated throughout the Old Testament. By saying that we are the temples of God he is claiming us as his, or as his possession. As his temples he is always with us, as he is the good shepherd who always looks after what is his.
But just as the sheep are all herded together for mutual protection, we are to gather with other believers to strengthen us against the evil one.
Remember, even the great prophet Elijah wanted to give up and die when he thought he was alone, but took courage when God showed him the thousands in Israel who had never bowed to Baal.
Thank u very much for that, couldn’t agree more but that being said, since we are the temple of God then what does that make the church building and why do you need to go church.
or rather, why do YOU go church?
I believe that it is God’s will for us to go to church and have fellowship with our brethren so that we will be encouraged, enlightened and strengthened
Hebrews 10 : 24 – 25 says ” And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another…”
true… thanks for sharing that :-). pls stay tuned to others views and ours
Rev 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven saying, come out of HER my people, that you be not partakers of her sins, and that you receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquity.
God never did live in her(the building)in the first place.
MinisterMarlene
Thank you very much for that Minister Marlene. pls stay tuned 🙂
I believe that God is everywhere — no place in reality is separated from His presence. But there is something special about a human being who believes. As humans who acknowledge that God is present and God is good, we are able to respond and *communicate* this in a way that a rock,or an animal or a tree cannot.
And a church functions the same way. A church is a place where (hopefully) attention, honor and worship is centered on our God, and His goodness to us. Going to a place where other believers are focused on God is a big encouragement to me, because sometimes everyday life distracts me from the truth!
Great question 🙂
Thank you so much for your contribution :-). pls stay tuned
If time is money you’ve made me a waelhteir woman.
“Those who worship God must worship in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24)
So many people have a misconception of why they go to church. Many think, “It’s all about me. I must get something out of it. It should meet my expectations.” We go to church on Sunday to gather with others and worship God. It is not about getting, it is about giving. When we concentrate on ourselves and what we are getting out of something we are not free to worship. We are on our minds, not God. Our spiritual growth comes out of worship. Our desire and ability to share God with others comes out of worship. Our ability to pray comes out of worship. God says our praises are an offering – a gift we are able and allowed to give to Him. When we enter our churches we make a decision – are we there to give glory and praise to God or are we there for our own selfish desires. Worship cannot happen as a spectator. Worship is a verb – a word of action. We can’t worship if we just sit and listen and have the attitude – perform for me. We are there to give our praises to God. We do this through songs. God’s word just says to make a joyful noise. It doesn’t say you must be able to sing on tune or have a good voice. We can even say the words to the songs if we can’t sing them. We worship through prayer. We can do our own praying. During vocal praying we can join in by paying attention and quietly agreeing with what is prayed. We worship through the reading of God’s written word – the Bible. We bring our own Bibles and read along even if it is a different version. We worship through listening to the sermon with open hearts and minds. There is encouragement and direction given in sermons. Ask yourself each Sunday morning, “Why am I going to church?” Choose to go to give worship and praise to our God. Remember one piece of charcoal by itself will soon go out. It needs others with it to keep the fire going.
Thank you very much for sharing this 🙂