God And His Word - A Question And Answer Approach To Understanding The Bible

5. WHY DOES THE LOCAL CHURCH NEED A MEETING PLACE? It is necessary for people to gather in a recognized place if they are to: A. Assume responsibility in ministering to their community. B. Maintain spiritual unity among themselves in promoting God's program in their local area. C. Recognize leadership ministries that God has given and submit to apostolic authority. D. Experience the wonders of congregational worship, prayer and communion. E. Influence their children in the habits, disciplines and sacraments of Christian living and cooperation. NOTE: Acts 2:1, 42, 46; 4:23, 31; 12:5, 12; 13:l; 15:20, 36, 41; 18:7; 19:9; 20:7, 20. 6. THE CLOSET CONCEPT APPLIED TO THE CHURCH'S MEETING PLACE. Jesus taught the importance of personal, secluded "closet" praying, Matthew 6:6. Church meetings should also be "closet" experiences - on the congregational level. When the church meets, the influence of the world should be shut out. It should be a gathering of the Body of Christ to glorify God, not just an effort to please the non-Christians. Hebrews 2:12. When Christians leave their homes and jobs and journey to a central meeting place, they have a right to expect something greater than they could experience at home (or another church). For instance, every Christian should have wonderful times of prayer in his home - but it should be much greater to pray in the church's power 199 7. WHY MEET TOGETHER AS A CHURCH?