The Assembly of the Early Christians – The Power of the Gathering of the Saints
Let us turn our attention to the powerful example of the early Christians, their dedication to gathering, and the profound impact of their assemblies.
1. The Promise of Christ's Presence in the Gathering of Believers (Matthew 18:20)
Jesus Himself assured us, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20). This is not merely a comforting thought, but a divine promise. The church is not a building, but the living, breathing communion of saints, united in His name. When we gather, we invite His very presence into our midst.
2. The Disciples Gathered After the Resurrection (John 20:19)
Even in fear and uncertainty, the disciples gathered. “Now when it was evening on that first day of the week, and the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’” (John 20:19).
Their gathering, born of fear, became a moment of divine encounter. Jesus, the risen Lord, brought peace and encouragement, transforming their fear into faith.
3. The First Assembly Before Pentecost (Acts 1:4,14)
Before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the disciples gathered in obedience to Jesus’ command. “And being assembled together with them, he commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which (he said) ye have heard of me.” (Acts 1:4). “These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.” (Acts 1:14).
Their unity and persistent prayer were essential. They waited together, as one body, for the promised Holy Spirit.
4. The Church Born at Pentecost (Acts 2:1)
“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.” (Acts 2:1). The Holy Spirit descended upon a united church, birthing the great revival and the evangelistic mission that would transform the world. The power of God is unleashed when His people gather in unity.
5. Prayer and Power in the Church Assembly (Acts 4:31)
“And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken: and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and spake the word of God with boldness.” (Acts 4:31). Their collective prayer moved heaven and earth. Their gathering was a place of power, where they were filled with the Holy Spirit and emboldened to witness.
6. Seeking God in Prayer Assemblies (Acts 16:13)
Even in simple places, by the riverside, the early Christians gathered to pray. “And on the sabbath day we went out of the city by the river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down and spoke to the women who were assembled.” (Acts 16:13). Where there is a heart that seeks God, He is found. Their gatherings were a testament to their hunger for His presence.
7. The Practice of the Supper and Worship on the First Day of the Week (Acts 20:7)
“Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul talked with them, intending to depart the next day, and continued speaking until midnight.” (Acts 20:7). They gathered on the Lord’s Day for fellowship, the breaking of bread, and the teaching of the Word. Their gatherings were a celebration of their communion with Christ.
8. Order and Respect in the Assembly (1 Corinthians 11:33)
“Therefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another.” (1 Corinthians 11:33). Paul reminds us that our gatherings should be marked by order, respect, and unity. They should be a time of edification, communion, and reverence for God.
- Preaching on Bad Associations – The Danger of Bad Company
- Preaching on Touching Jesus – Heals Those Who Touch
- Preaching on The Amazement Caused by Christ
Conclusion
Let us learn from the example of the early Christians. Let us cherish the power of gathering, seeking God’s presence, and building up one another in faith. Let us come together in unity, in prayer, and in love, that we may experience the fullness of His glory. Amen.
