How To Have Church During Martial Law

[james34]

It might be helpful to have a plan on how we operate under martial law.
When travel is suspended and you cant moves about freely.
It is the will of God that we operate as a body if they (government) come against the church, are there workarounds to minister within the body? Obviously we are getting a taste of what that might be like now, but when the church is singled out in a purposeful way, by God's grace we will carry on.

Here is a document I received from Whirlpool, it authorizes me to go past legal checkpoints. Do the big corporations know something I don't. Is our present situation going to be purposely,(but unnecessarily)escalated to nationwide martial law?
6509

[Esaias]

It might be helpful to have a plan on how we operate under martial law.
When travel is suspended and you cant moves about freely.
It is the will of God that we operate as a body if they (government) come against the church, are there workarounds to minister within the body? Obviously we are getting a taste of what that might be like now, but when the church is singled out in a purposeful way, by God's grace we will carry on.

Here is a document I received from Whirlpool, it authorizes me to go past legal checkpoints. Do the big corporations know something I don't. Is our present situation going to be purposely,(but unnecessarily)escalated to nationwide martial law?
6509

Wow, appliance repair is an "essential service" that authorises travel during martial law????

Who issues these documents? How would a police officer or National Guardsman know they were legitimate? Can I just issue my own? If private companies can do it why not private people? Or churches for that matter?

Anyway, we have church they way we've pretty much always done it, which is the way it has been done since the days of the apostles. We gather at a set time, we pray, we sing, we testify, we worship, we read the Word, we exhort one another, we eat, we fellowship and discuss, etc. Rinse and repeat.

But that's house church.

[james34]

Wow, appliance repair is an "essential service" that authorises travel during martial law????

Who issues these documents? How would a police officer or National Guardsman know they were legitimate? Can I just issue my own? If private companies can do it why not private people? Or churches for that matter?

Anyway, we have church they way we've pretty much always done it, which is the way it has been done since the days of the apostles. We gather at a set time, we pray, we sing, we testify, we worship, we read the Word, we exhort one another, we eat, we fellowship and discuss, etc. Rinse and repeat.

But that's house church.
That was a document emailed to me by whirlpool, also have one from electrolux. It seems its more about letting you know they are in complete control of your every move, than it is about stopping you from moving.

A pastor i sat under told me when he was in Romania(under communism) that the church met in secret at various homes, often the next meeting would not be announced but you would have to be led of the Spirit to know where to meet.

[Esaias]

For those meeting in small groups at home for the first time, here's a starter pack.

There are 5 basic things the church is to do when meeting: Pray, sing, read the Word, minister, eat.

Pray:
1 Timothy 2:1-4 KJV
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; [2] For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. [3] For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; [4] Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

Pray for rulers, for neighbors, for one another, for all in society.

Sing:
Colossians 3:16 KJV
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

Singing is for a purpose: teaching and admonition. Not entertainment.

Read/teach the Word:
1 Timothy 4:13 KJV
Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

The Word is to be read. Elders are to exhort and teach.

Minister:
1 Corinthians 14:26-40 KJV
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. [27] If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. [28] But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. [29] Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. [30] If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. [31] For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. [32] And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. [33] For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. [34] Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. [35] And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. [36] What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? [37] If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. [38] But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. [39] Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. [40] Let all things be done decently and in order.

Each member should allow God to use them to build up and meet the needs of the whole assembly.

Eat:
1 Corinthians 11:23-34 KJV
For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: [24] And when he had given thanks, he brake it , and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. [25] After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it , in remembrance of me. [26] For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come. [27] Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. [28] But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. [29] For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. [30] For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. [31] For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. [32] But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. [33] Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another. [34] And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.

The Lord's Supper is a fellowship meal that includes a loaf of bread broken and distributed to each, and a cup of wine shared by each, in remembrance of the Lord's suffering and death (and resurrection) to make us one body sharing in one covenant.

The order in which these are done is not specified. Whatever works for each assembly is fine as far as I can tell. Our experience has led us to have two basic formats, what we call a short meeting and a long meeting.

The short meeting is just that - short and sweet, simple, basic, no frills. We gather together, we pray, take prayer requests, pray for one another as needed, we sing and testify and minister as the Lord leads, a passage of Scripture is read and taught through discussion and question/answer aka dialogue, we pray again, we eat, we fellowship and discuss, etc.

The long meeting is a bit more structured and includes a lot of corporate praying of the psalms, a Profession of Faith, a more structured and detailed prayer list, testifying, singing, ministering, reading, teaching, discussion, and a fellowship meal/Lord's Supper.

Which one we do largely depends on the needs, the circumstances, how the Lord is leading, etc.

If you are currently not able to meet with other brethren but are just at home, the same approach can be used. Gather your family, pray, sing, read, teach, exhort, discuss, and eat. Very simple and nothing needed except a Bible and a willing heart. God can lead anyone if they are willing to follow. :thumbsup

[james34]

I have never attended a home church, wish I knew of one I would like to check it out.

[Esaias]

That was a document emailed to me by whirlpool, also have one from electrolux. It seems its more about letting you know they are in complete control of your every move, than it is about stopping you from moving.

A pastor i sat under told me when he was in Romania(under communism) that the church met in secret at various homes, often the next meeting would not be announced but you would have to be led of the Spirit to know where to meet.

Interesting. Makes me think of this:

Galatians 2:4 KJV
And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:

The church has had to deal with spies before. But I think at this point if it is simply announced to the brethren where the next meeting is to be it should be fine. Assuming everyone knows one another, that is...

[Esaias]

I have never attended a home church, wish I knew of one I would like to check it out.

Just get together with at least 1 or 2 other believers at somebody's house and have church. That's house church. There's nothing mysterious or extraordinary about it. :)

[Amanah]

I have never attended a home church, wish I knew of one I would like to check it out.

Maybe Elder Esaias can live stream for us.

[Michael The Disciple]

I have never attended a home church, wish I knew of one I would like to check it out.

Most of my Christian life was in house Churches. Its not as structured and formal altho as Esaias pointed out there are Biblical guidelines. There is a greater chance for meaningful fellowship and love. Its not about "hot sermons". One can actually get to know the Pastor and be friends with him (or them) as the case may be.

I dont consider home Church in itself the answer to all things but saints do need to think about it. It is the wave of the future. Your Pastors past is our future.

[Amanah]

For those meeting in small groups at home for the first time, here's a starter pack.

There are 5 basic things the church is to do when meeting: Pray, sing, read the Word, minister, eat.

Pray:
1 Timothy 2:1-4 KJV
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; [2] For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. [3] For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; [4] Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

Pray for rulers, for neighbors, for one another, for all in society.

Sing:
Colossians 3:16 KJV
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

Singing is for a purpose: teaching and admonition. Not entertainment.

Read/teach the Word:
1 Timothy 4:13 KJV
Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

The Word is to be read. Elders are to exhort and teach.

Minister:
1 Corinthians 14:26-40 KJV
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. [27] If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. [28] But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. [29] Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. [30] If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. [31] For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. [32] And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. [33] For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. [34] Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. [35] And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. [36] What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? [37] If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. [38] But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. [39] Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. [40] Let all things be done decently and in order.

Each member should allow God to use them to build up and meet the needs of the whole assembly.

Eat:
1 Corinthians 11:23-34 KJV
For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: [24] And when he had given thanks, he brake it , and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. [25] After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it , in remembrance of me. [26] For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come. [27] Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. [28] But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. [29] For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. [30] For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. [31] For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. [32] But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. [33] Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another. [34] And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.

The Lord's Supper is a fellowship meal that includes a loaf of bread broken and distributed to each, and a cup of wine shared by each, in remembrance of the Lord's suffering and death (and resurrection) to make us one body sharing in one covenant.

The order in which these are done is not specified. Whatever works for each assembly is fine as far as I can tell. Our experience has led us to have two basic formats, what we call a short meeting and a long meeting.

The short meeting is just that - short and sweet, simple, basic, no frills. We gather together, we pray, take prayer requests, pray for one another as needed, we sing and testify and minister as the Lord leads, a passage of Scripture is read and taught through discussion and question/answer aka dialogue, we pray again, we eat, we fellowship and discuss, etc.

The long meeting is a bit more structured and includes a lot of corporate praying of the psalms, a Profession of Faith, a more structured and detailed prayer list, testifying, singing, ministering, reading, teaching, discussion, and a fellowship meal/Lord's Supper.

Which one we do largely depends on the needs, the circumstances, how the Lord is leading, etc.

If you are currently not able to meet with other brethren but are just at home, the same approach can be used. Gather your family, pray, sing, read, teach, exhort, discuss, and eat. Very simple and nothing needed except a Bible and a willing heart. God can lead anyone if they are willing to follow. :thumbsup

As govt becomes more intrusive and society continues to break down, this could be in our future. Now is a good time to practice.

[Nicodemus1968]

We have house services. That’s how Home Missions starts out, at least for me. We have service in my home, church building, saints home, while we’re at the grocery store parking lot. There is no pamphlet on how to have home services, we follow the spirit.

[Amanah]

We have house services. That’s how Home Missions starts out, at least for me. We have service in my home, church building, saints home, while we’re at the grocery store parking lot. There is no pamphlet on how to have home services, we follow the spirit.

:highfive

[Evang.Benincasa]

Wow, appliance repair is an "essential service" that authorises travel during martial law????

Who issues these documents? How would a police officer or National Guardsman know they were legitimate? Can I just issue my own? If private companies can do it why not private people? Or churches for that matter?

Anyway, we have church they way we've pretty much always done it, which is the way it has been done since the days of the apostles. We gather at a set time, we pray, we sing, we testify, we worship, we read the Word, we exhort one another, we eat, we fellowship and discuss, etc. Rinse and repeat.

But that's house church.


I love the way you see the obviously logical conclusion. Bravo!!!

[james34]

This all sounds like the direction God seems to be moving. I will probably start having such a meeting. Definitely going to be praying about this.

[Esaias]

This all sounds like the direction God seems to be moving. I will probably start having such a meeting. Definitely going to be praying about this.

Keep me updated on how things go. If you need anything let me know, we'll see what we can do. If you get involved in starting a work we'll add that work to our regular prayer list.

Remember, the only supplies you really need are a Bible and faith, everything else flows from that. No need for big budgets. :thumbsup

[Birddog]

That was a document emailed to me by whirlpool, also have one from electrolux. It seems its more about letting you know they are in complete control of your every move, than it is about stopping you from moving.

A pastor i sat under told me when he was in Romania(under communism) that the church met in secret at various homes, often the next meeting would not be announced but you would have to be led of the Spirit to know where to meet.

I also have heard that that was very common there.

[coksiw]

I second Esaias post regarding structure. My experience with small "informal" gatherings is that there is soon somebody or two trying to take over the public discourse and trying to raise among everybody else. It is because of their personality, no necessarily a bad thing, and no necessarily because they are being lead by the Spirit.

So a structure, with clear expectations, and a clear appointing of who is teaching, leading singing, etc..., is crucial for the stability of the small group. This consequentially calls for some to rule: the elders of the tiny assembly.

I also personally like to give some time to the kids as well. I do one kid's song for them after we are done singing, and then I let them recite three verses they memorized.
Then after that the teaching goes, which is more like a classroom, where I try to get people to participate with Q/A format. And finally, we end all seeking God together in prayer and praying for one another. Great Pentecostal experiences. We love it. My older toddler still remembers what I taught last time and has began to use it in his prayers.

[james34]

We are in the middle of a move from West Tn Jackson area, to Nw Arkansas....Batesville area...where we are from. We plan to start a home church there and see where it goes, I'm really looking forward to it.
Probably be 2 to 3 weeks from now.

[diakonos]

We are in the middle of a move from West Tn Jackson area, to Nw Arkansas....Batesville area...where we are from. We plan to start a home church there and see where it goes, I'm really looking forward to it.
Probably be 2 to 3 weeks from now.

Awesome

[Esaias]

We are in the middle of a move from West Tn Jackson area, to Nw Arkansas....Batesville area...where we are from. We plan to start a home church there and see where it goes, I'm really looking forward to it.
Probably be 2 to 3 weeks from now.

We will be praying for the work there. :thumbsup

[Esaias]

I second Esaias post regarding structure. My experience with small "informal" gatherings is that there is soon somebody or two trying to take over the public discourse and trying to raise among everybody else. It is because of their personality, no necessarily a bad thing, and no necessarily because they are being lead by the Spirit.

So a structure, with clear expectations, and a clear appointing of who is teaching, leading singing, etc..., is crucial for the stability of the small group. This consequentially calls for some to rule: the elders of the tiny assembly.

I also personally like to give some time to the kids as well. I do one kid's song for them after we are done singing, and then I let them recite three verses they memorized.
Then after that the teaching goes, which is more like a classroom, where I try to get people to participate with Q/A format. And finally, we end all seeking God together in prayer and praying for one another. Great Pentecostal experiences. We love it. My older toddler still remembers what I taught last time and has began to use it in his prayers.

Honestly sounds a lot like simply moving the modern religious enterprise into somebody's living room.

Forget house church vs "institutional" church for a moment. Think instead Biblical church. Instead of taking the liturgy and structure of the denominational world and trying to squeeze it into a "small group setting", why not take the Bible as the blueprint and just do what they did the way they did it?

Who decides who is going to teach? How about God?

Romans 12:3-8 KJV
For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. [4] For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: [5] So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. [6] Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; [7] Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; [8] Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

1 Corinthians 12:4-12 KJV
Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. [5] And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. [6] And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. [7] But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. [8] For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; [9] To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; [10] To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: [11] But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. [12] For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:18 KJV
But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

1 Corinthians 14:26-33 KJV
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. [27] If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. [28] But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. [29] Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. [30] If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. [31] For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. [32] And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. [33] For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

Notice the part that says "If anything be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted."

Those are some of elder Paul's instructions for the meeting. Surely we will submit to the instructions of a bona fide apostle of the Lord?

Here are some other instructions:

2 Timothy 2:2 KJV
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

1 Timothy 5:17 KJV
Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

Elders are responsible for The Teaching, but they are not the only ones who are to teach. The job of an elder and bishop (episkopos, overseer) is to "look upon" or "oversee" what goes on in the group, and correct by the Word any errors. This is why Paul taught us:

1 Corinthians 14:29 KJV
Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.

What is taught, whether by doctrinal presentation or alleged divine utterances, are to be judged. Judged as to the message's conformity to the Word of God, its expediency, and application, to the assembly, etc.

The Bible contains the "structure... and appointment..." for the assembly to do its thing. And we need to really get away from viewing church as a "group that meets on ___day". Church is more than a meeting or "service". It is a COMMUNITY, literally an alternative society (alternative to the world). It is not just a "part" of our lives, it IS our life, it is 2 or more people living for Jesus - together.

This is why we see this:

Acts 5:42 KJV
And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

Acts 20:20 KJV
And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you , but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house,

It's not just group meetings. It is constant interactions and teaching and ministering, especially outside of the main gathering.

As for children, they are simply adults-in-training. They do best with the best results by simply being with their parents in the meeting, learning by example how to be functioning Christians. It's great that you encourage them to participate, and every meeting needs to take into account every member, and minister to each regardless of what "level" they are at. But care must be taken to avoid giving ANYONE, whether a child, an adult, a visitor, or a preacher, the idea that the meeting of God's church is to be somehow altered for them and their personal wants. Otherwise, church becomes entertainment, regardless how "serious and somber" things may appear.

[Michael The Disciple]

Honestly sounds a lot like simply moving the modern religious enterprise into somebody's living room.

Forget house church vs "institutional" church for a moment. Think instead Biblical church. Instead of taking the liturgy and structure of the denominational world and trying to squeeze it into a "small group setting", why not take the Bible as the blueprint and just do what they did the way they did it?

Who decides who is going to teach? How about God?

Romans 12:3-8 KJV
For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. [4] For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: [5] So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. [6] Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; [7] Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; [8] Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

1 Corinthians 12:4-12 KJV
Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. [5] And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. [6] And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. [7] But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. [8] For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; [9] To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; [10] To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: [11] But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. [12] For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:18 KJV
But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

1 Corinthians 14:26-33 KJV
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. [27] If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. [28] But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. [29] Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. [30] If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. [31] For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. [32] And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. [33] For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

Notice the part that says "If anything be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted."

Those are some of elder Paul's instructions for the meeting. Surely we will submit to the instructions of a bona fide apostle of the Lord?

Here are some other instructions:

2 Timothy 2:2 KJV
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

1 Timothy 5:17 KJV
Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

Elders are responsible for The Teaching, but they are not the only ones who are to teach. The job of an elder and bishop (episkopos, overseer) is to "look upon" or "oversee" what goes on in the group, and correct by the Word any errors. This is why Paul taught us:

1 Corinthians 14:29 KJV
Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.

What is taught, whether by doctrinal presentation or alleged divine utterances, are to be judged. Judged as to the message's conformity to the Word of God, its expediency, and application, to the assembly, etc.

The Bible contains the "structure... and appointment..." for the assembly to do its thing. And we need to really get away from viewing church as a "group that meets on ___day". Church is more than a meeting or "service". It is a COMMUNITY, literally an alternative society (alternative to the world). It is not just a "part" of our lives, it IS our life, it is 2 or more people living for Jesus - together.

This is why we see this:

Acts 5:42 KJV
And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

Acts 20:20 KJV
And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you , but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house,

It's not just group meetings. It is constant interactions and teaching and ministering, especially outside of the main gathering.

As for children, they are simply adults-in-training. They do best with the best results by simply being with their parents in the meeting, learning by example how to be functioning Christians. It's great that you encourage them to participate, and every meeting needs to take into account every member, and minister to each regardless of what "level" they are at. But care must be taken to avoid giving ANYONE, whether a child, an adult, a visitor, or a preacher, the idea that the meeting of God's church is to be somehow altered for them and their personal wants. Otherwise, church becomes entertainment, regardless how "serious and somber" things may appear.


:highfive

[Evang.Benincasa]

Wow, appliance repair is an "essential service" that authorises travel during martial law????

Who issues these documents? How would a police officer or National Guardsman know they were legitimate? Can I just issue my own? If private companies can do it why not private people? Or churches for that matter?

Anyway, we have church they way we've pretty much always done it, which is the way it has been done since the days of the apostles. We gather at a set time, we pray, we sing, we testify, we worship, we read the Word, we exhort one another, we eat, we fellowship and discuss, etc. Rinse and repeat.

But that's house church.

House church :thumbsup

[Amanah]

For those meeting in small groups at home for the first time, here's a starter pack.

There are 5 basic things the church is to do when meeting: Pray, sing, read the Word, minister, eat.

Pray:
1 Timothy 2:1-4 KJV
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; [2] For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. [3] For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; [4] Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

Pray for rulers, for neighbors, for one another, for all in society.

Sing:
Colossians 3:16 KJV
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

Singing is for a purpose: teaching and admonition. Not entertainment.

Read/teach the Word:
1 Timothy 4:13 KJV
Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

The Word is to be read. Elders are to exhort and teach.

Minister:
1 Corinthians 14:26-40 KJV
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. [27] If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. [28] But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. [29] Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. [30] If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. [31] For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. [32] And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. [33] For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. [34] Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. [35] And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. [36] What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? [37] If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. [38] But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. [39] Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. [40] Let all things be done decently and in order.

Each member should allow God to use them to build up and meet the needs of the whole assembly.

Eat:
1 Corinthians 11:23-34 KJV
For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: [24] And when he had given thanks, he brake it , and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. [25] After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it , in remembrance of me. [26] For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come. [27] Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. [28] But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. [29] For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. [30] For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. [31] For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. [32] But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. [33] Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another. [34] And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.

The Lord's Supper is a fellowship meal that includes a loaf of bread broken and distributed to each, and a cup of wine shared by each, in remembrance of the Lord's suffering and death (and resurrection) to make us one body sharing in one covenant.

The order in which these are done is not specified. Whatever works for each assembly is fine as far as I can tell. Our experience has led us to have two basic formats, what we call a short meeting and a long meeting.

The short meeting is just that - short and sweet, simple, basic, no frills. We gather together, we pray, take prayer requests, pray for one another as needed, we sing and testify and minister as the Lord leads, a passage of Scripture is read and taught through discussion and question/answer aka dialogue, we pray again, we eat, we fellowship and discuss, etc.

The long meeting is a bit more structured and includes a lot of corporate praying of the psalms, a Profession of Faith, a more structured and detailed prayer list, testifying, singing, ministering, reading, teaching, discussion, and a fellowship meal/Lord's Supper.

Which one we do largely depends on the needs, the circumstances, how the Lord is leading, etc.

If you are currently not able to meet with other brethren but are just at home, the same approach can be used. Gather your family, pray, sing, read, teach, exhort, discuss, and eat. Very simple and nothing needed except a Bible and a willing heart. God can lead anyone if they are willing to follow. :thumbsup

I would like to post this on FB if you don't mind.

[coksiw]

Honestly sounds a lot like simply moving the modern religious enterprise into somebody's living room.

Forget house church vs "institutional" church for a moment. Think instead Biblical church. Instead of taking the liturgy and structure of the denominational world and trying to squeeze it into a "small group setting", why not take the Bible as the blueprint and just do what they did the way they did it?

Who decides who is going to teach? How about God?

Romans 12:3-8 KJV
For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. [4] For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: [5] So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. [6] Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; [7] Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; [8] Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

1 Corinthians 12:4-12 KJV
Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. [5] And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. [6] And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. [7] But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. [8] For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; [9] To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; [10] To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: [11] But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. [12] For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:18 KJV
But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

1 Corinthians 14:26-33 KJV
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. [27] If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. [28] But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. [29] Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. [30] If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. [31] For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. [32] And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. [33] For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

Notice the part that says "If anything be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted."

Those are some of elder Paul's instructions for the meeting. Surely we will submit to the instructions of a bona fide apostle of the Lord?

Here are some other instructions:

2 Timothy 2:2 KJV
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

1 Timothy 5:17 KJV
Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

Elders are responsible for The Teaching, but they are not the only ones who are to teach. The job of an elder and bishop (episkopos, overseer) is to "look upon" or "oversee" what goes on in the group, and correct by the Word any errors. This is why Paul taught us:

1 Corinthians 14:29 KJV
Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.

What is taught, whether by doctrinal presentation or alleged divine utterances, are to be judged. Judged as to the message's conformity to the Word of God, its expediency, and application, to the assembly, etc.

The Bible contains the "structure... and appointment..." for the assembly to do its thing. And we need to really get away from viewing church as a "group that meets on ___day". Church is more than a meeting or "service". It is a COMMUNITY, literally an alternative society (alternative to the world). It is not just a "part" of our lives, it IS our life, it is 2 or more people living for Jesus - together.

This is why we see this:

Acts 5:42 KJV
And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

Acts 20:20 KJV
And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you , but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house,

It's not just group meetings. It is constant interactions and teaching and ministering, especially outside of the main gathering.

As for children, they are simply adults-in-training. They do best with the best results by simply being with their parents in the meeting, learning by example how to be functioning Christians. It's great that you encourage them to participate, and every meeting needs to take into account every member, and minister to each regardless of what "level" they are at. But care must be taken to avoid giving ANYONE, whether a child, an adult, a visitor, or a preacher, the idea that the meeting of God's church is to be somehow altered for them and their personal wants. Otherwise, church becomes entertainment, regardless how "serious and somber" things may appear.

I don’t see how your post contradicts my post. Of course God raises people with gifts and not all teachers are elders. I am just saying that it should be done in order and the elders are the ones that decide if you are teaching that day or not, or singing that song or not, whether it as decided two days ago or right before the service starts. There should be a structure, and an order, and elders ruling. And there is still room for gifted people to do their function even prophetic words or interpretation.

I like to set a structure before the service starts, otherwise what happens is that during singing everyone wants to sing their favorite song, or have “something to add” after the teaching. I don’t know how many type A personality you have had but I had to deal with it more than once in me lifetime in small gatherings :D. You want to keep the service on track otherwise your service will last long and some won’t enjoy the dynamic going on, and not necessarily because the Spirit is moving.

Regarding the house to house, I do teach Bible Study for salvation and also for new converts. All my Bible Studies right now are for new converts.

[Michael The Disciple]

I don’t see how your post contradicts my post. Of course God raises people with gifts and not all teachers are elders. I am just saying that it should be done in order and the elders are the ones that decide if you are teaching that day or not, or singing that song or not, whether it as decided two days ago or right before the service starts. There should be a structure, and an order, and elders ruling. And there is still room for gifted people to do their function even prophetic words or interpretation.

I like to set a structure before the service starts, otherwise what happens is that during singing everyone wants to sing their favorite song, or have “something to add” after the teaching. I don’t know how many type A personality you have had but I had to deal with it more than once in me lifetime in small gatherings :D. You want to keep the service on track otherwise your service will last long and some won’t enjoy the dynamic going on, and not necessarily because the Spirit is moving.

Regarding the house to house, I do teach Bible Study for salvation and also for new converts. All my Bible Studies right now are for new converts.

:highfive

[Esaias]

I would like to post this on FB if you don't mind.

I don't mind. :highfive

[Esaias]

I don’t see how your post contradicts my post. Of course God raises people with gifts and not all teachers are elders. I am just saying that it should be done in order and the elders are the ones that decide if you are teaching that day or not, or singing that song or not, whether it as decided two days ago or right before the service starts. There should be a structure, and an order, and elders ruling. And there is still room for gifted people to do their function even prophetic words or interpretation.

I like to set a structure before the service starts, otherwise what happens is that during singing everyone wants to sing their favorite song, or have “something to add” after the teaching. I don’t know how many type A personality you have had but I had to deal with it more than once in me lifetime in small gatherings :D. You want to keep the service on track otherwise your service will last long and some won’t enjoy the dynamic going on, and not necessarily because the Spirit is moving.

Regarding the house to house, I do teach Bible Study for salvation and also for new converts. All my Bible Studies right now are for new converts.

I didn't really say our posts contradict each other, that wasn't my point. I was trying to say we shouldn't distinguish between house church or small group church on the one hand and something else on the other, rather the focus should be on the BIBLICAL MANNER, we should all want to have BIBLICAL church rather than X, Y, or Z style church.

The only structure that should be set is God's structure. If that is taught nobody is gonna worry about "their favorite song" because they will have been taught all singing is for TEACHING and ADMONITION not enjoyment.

One guy making all the decisions is most certainly NOT Biblical church.

Singing? Here is apostolic instruction:

1 Corinthians 14:26 KJV
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.

In our meetings, and in the meetings we had with the house church we were originally with years ago, nobody "structured" anything except God. Nobody decided which songs and how many and what order, nobody decided what teaching was presented (and no more). We gathered, we prayed, then anyone could speak, testify, preach, read, sing, etc as they were led. And whatever was said was JUDGED RIGHT THEN AND THERE IN THE MEETING. The elder would usually give a word of exhortation or doctrine. More praying, testifying, etc. Then often a meal together. There was no need for some person to "structure the meeting to prevent people from wanting to sing something" that the alleged "person in charge" didn't want to hear. It's not their personal meeting anyway, it's the Lord's.

But to each his own.

[n david]

How many are being baptized and filled with the HG in these house churches?

[coksiw]

How many are being baptized and filled with the HG in these house churches?

If you are asking about the effectiveness of small gatherings, I can tell you the one we started years ago increased from 3 to a little less than three dozens in 2 years. When the group reached one dozen, 8 received the Holy Ghost in one night speaking in tongues. After that revival followed with signs, prophetic words and conversions.

Then I moved, and the church I went to started home groups, and the home groups initiative became strong. Many people were reached through that ministry. The main church could not hold that many new converts so they had to split the Sunday morning service in three services.

I moved again, and now in small gathering at my house, everyone has the Holy Ghost and is baptized, except my toddlers, and we are working on it.

[Amanah]

If you are asking about the effectiveness of small gatherings, I can tell you the one we started years ago increased from 3 to a little less than three dozens in 2 years. When the group reached one dozen, 8 received the Holy Ghost in one night speaking in tongues. After that revival followed with signs, prophetic words and conversions.

Then I moved, and the church I went to started home groups, and the home groups initiative became strong. Many people were reached through that ministry. The main church could not hold that many new converts so they had to split the Sunday morning service in three services.

I moved again, and now in small gathering at my house, everyone has the Holy Ghost and is baptized, except my toddlers, and we are working on it.

Awesome testimony

[coksiw]

If you are asking about the effectiveness of small gatherings, I can tell you the one we started years ago increased from 3 to a little less than three dozens in 2 years. When the group reached one dozen, 8 received the Holy Ghost in one night speaking in tongues. After that revival followed with signs, prophetic words and conversions.

Then I moved, and the church I went to started home groups, and the home groups initiative became strong. Many people were reached through that ministry. The main church could not hold that many new converts so they had to split the Sunday morning service in three services.

I moved again, and now in small gathering at my house, everyone has the Holy Ghost and is baptized, except my toddlers, and we are working on it.

It does take time, though. In my experience, it always took few years to see a significant expansion. I also was the minister in another small gathering in somebody's house with mature Christians in between the first and second testimony above. I recall only a couple of conversions in that one. However, it was still awesome. I recall one night three people out of like seven attendants received instant healing in Jesus name.
I didn't last long in that one as I had to move.

I am strong believer in small gatherings. The book of acts shows small gatherings and large gatherings. They all have their place. If you go to a large church building you better do home groups. If you go to house churches it is good to have fellowship with other ones in then area, especially the ones that came out of the same missionary work.

[n david]

If you are asking about the effectiveness of small gatherings, I can tell you the one we started years ago increased from 3 to a little less than three dozens in 2 years. When the group reached one dozen, 8 received the Holy Ghost in one night speaking in tongues. After that revival followed with signs, prophetic words and conversions.

Then I moved, and the church I went to started home groups, and the home groups initiative became strong. Many people were reached through that ministry. The main church could not hold that many new converts so they had to split the Sunday morning service in three services.

I moved again, and now in small gathering at my house, everyone has the Holy Ghost and is baptized, except my toddlers, and we are working on it.
I understand the effectiveness of home (cell) groups. I'm asking about house churches.

[Nicodemus1968]

I understand the effectiveness of home (cell) groups. I'm asking about house churches.

Are you wondering about how many are filled with the Holy Ghost in each service? What do you mean by effectiveness?

House church is the foundation of the early church.

The question is, how effective will the church (i.e members) be with House Service? The western mindset has damaged our faith on how God works.

[hometown guy]

Are you wondering about how many are filled with the Holy Ghost in each service? What do you mean by effectiveness?

House church is the foundation of the early church.

The question is, how effective will the church (i.e members) be with House Service? The western mindset has damaged our faith on how God works.

Forgive me I have not read through this thread ... I don’t mind a house church but on what grounds do you feel that mindset has damaged our faith on how God works? Maybe you have been on different type churches that i have been apart of....

[Nicodemus1968]

Forgive me I have not read through this thread ... I don’t mind a house church but on what grounds do you feel that mindset has damaged our faith on how God works? Maybe you have been on different type churches that i have been apart of....

I was referring to what nDavid was asking about. I believe Home Church/Service was the foundation of the early church. I believe the effectiveness isn’t dependent on the platform of “Home Service” yet it depends upon the members that are going.

The western mindset has I believed damaged us in our walk for God. We have it so easy in this country our dependence on God is not where it should be in various areas of our life.

For instance,
Financial problem, we have credit cards
We get sick, we have insurance
We have problems, we can solve them
We lose our job, we have unemployment insurance

Being dependent on God, is being dependent. When the Lord tells us he’ll take care of us, then he will. Yet, before God can act, we move forward with the “answer”. The western mindset is, God doesn’t help those that don't help themselves. So, we help ourselves and we don’t allow God to help us. This is my personal opinion, if you have other thoughts please tell me.

As far as Home Service, there are several church’s I know would be against it, they’re so used to having service in a building they don't believe in Home Service. The western mindset is there is a better, more modern way to have church, thats why 90% of church’s have been live streaming there services.

[jediwill83]

I didn't really say our posts contradict each other, that wasn't my point. I was trying to say we shouldn't distinguish between house church or small group church on the one hand and something else on the other, rather the focus should be on the BIBLICAL MANNER, we should all want to have BIBLICAL church rather than X, Y, or Z style church.

The only structure that should be set is God's structure. If that is taught nobody is gonna worry about "their favorite song" because they will have been taught all singing is for TEACHING and ADMONITION not enjoyment.

One guy making all the decisions is most certainly NOT Biblical church.

Singing? Here is apostolic instruction:

1 Corinthians 14:26 KJV
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.

In our meetings, and in the meetings we had with the house church we were originally with years ago, nobody "structured" anything except God. Nobody decided which songs and how many and what order, nobody decided what teaching was presented (and no more). We gathered, we prayed, then anyone could speak, testify, preach, read, sing, etc as they were led. And whatever was said was JUDGED RIGHT THEN AND THERE IN THE MEETING. The elder would usually give a word of exhortation or doctrine. More praying, testifying, etc. Then often a meal together. There was no need for some person to "structure the meeting to prevent people from wanting to sing something" that the alleged "person in charge" didn't want to hear. It's not their personal meeting anyway, it's the Lord's.

But to each his own.


But Bro n Sis so and so paid for the fellowship hall, pews, water fountain, pulpit, AND the songbooks! Their names are even inscribed in gold around the rim of the offering plate and speaking of offerings...if they left thatd be a lot of money gone and the "First Lady" was really looking forward to that Alaskan Gospel Cruise this year because Branson is just old hat these days.


Seems house church would cut alot of that out...puts people on equal footing before the cross in a genuine and real way thats unscripted and flexible.


Good post man...not that my opinion matters or anything lol