Practical Hints for Church Gathering

N. John Jeyanandam, Amainthakarai Gospel Hall, India

Be in Good Time

Be in good time at all the gatherings of the assembly. Never be late for the fellowship and the Breaking-of-the-Bread gatherings. The LORD is there, present at the appointed time. ALL ought to be in their place, to receive HIM, and not allow HIM to wait for His people. And when the hour was come, He sat down, and the twelve apostles with Him. (Luke 22:14)

FOR YOUR OWN SAKE: If late, you will be coming hot, hurried, flurried. You are tired, embarrassed and vexed. Your spirit, mind and body are all unprepared. It will not be to your benefit or credit.

FOR THE SAKE OF OTHERS: Example is contagious. Arriving late breaks fellowship, disturbs the solemnity, creates disorder, distracts the concentration of others.

FOR THE LORD'S HONOR: Late coming dishonors the Dignitary Who is already present there - the Lord God Himself. It will despise the assembly, the church of God.

Reverence

God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints and to be had in reverence of all about Him (Psa. 89:7). This is due unto Him, and should never be ignored.

Godly Order

One leading the assembly audibly in praise or thanksgiving, should face the people and speak so as all may hear. Common courtesy, not to mention good manners, makes this apparent to all.

Singing

Hymn numbers should be mentioned clearly and audibly. Only such as have the capability and who are recognized should lead the singing. Such should be responsible for this exercise, and the rest are to own and make room for their service.

Intimations

The names of visitors and additions to the assembly, who are to be received into the fellowship, should be made at the beginning of the meeting, so that all may be able to recognize and welcome them worthily.

Duration of Meetings

Especially on the Lord's Day, meetings should be of such length as to allow mothers, wives, domestics, and others, whose duties demand their presence at home, being given time consideration, so that all may remain unto the close, in an orderly and reverent manner.

Announcements

These should be made in such a manner, so that all may hear and heed. It is due to the honor of the Lord that they be made audibly and understandably.

"Let all things be done decently and in order" (1 Cor 14:40)