Purpose of the Gathering...
In light of some recent struggles in our local church among certain folks, I have been reflecting on the whole purpose for our gathering in the first place. The truth is, we must gather, first and foremost because of charity. Charity beckons us to desire good things for our brothers and sisters in Christ, and not only does charity prompt us to desire goodness for them, it also compels us to actually demonstrate this desire by serving, and honoring one another, and preferring our brethren above ourselves.
It is of no use to come into the congregation if the only thing one has in mind is self satisfaction, for this is the radical opposite of Christianity. Our desire should be to serve, with humility, and gladness of heart. To give something of what God has placed in the depths of our own spirit, that others may be edified by the working of God through us.
Focusing on the benefit of others is paramount if we are to accomplish anything when we gather together, and if we expect to receive anything from God, we must first offer God to others in sincerity.
It is of no use to come into the congregation if the only thing one has in mind is self satisfaction, for this is the radical opposite of Christianity. Our desire should be to serve, with humility, and gladness of heart. To give something of what God has placed in the depths of our own spirit, that others may be edified by the working of God through us.
Focusing on the benefit of others is paramount if we are to accomplish anything when we gather together, and if we expect to receive anything from God, we must first offer God to others in sincerity.