House Churches

There are situations in a small church that are completely different in a big church. We had several phone up with sickness last Sunday. That leaves us quite small. Next Sunday we are expecting a lot extra. That will make us a tight fit in our sitting room. These situations can also cause people to advise us to close down, or move into a hall, etc. Actually, it makes little difference. We are called to worship the Lord in our home, and others, and to have an open door, for others to join us. We do not close down if few come, nor seek a larger building if many come.

The Biblical church met in homes. Everybody could participate, and thereby grow. If there was a ‘big speaker’ in town, a hall would be rented. For example, when Paul visited Ephesus. There were no ‘church’ buildings to be paid for, and no ‘ministers’ to pay for. Larger buildings were rented, and those called into ministry, ministered. People gave generously to those called, or they worked part-time. For example, Paul was a tent maker, and at times worked for an income as such.

In a big church, people do not participate as described in 1 Corinthians 14 – and do not grow. If you have a big building, you will have to ask for money to keep it going. If you have salaried ministers, you will ask for money. In the Bible, eg the book of Acts, Paul asked churches to have periodic collections to give to the poor, and to help support those in ministry. That is our vision, and we are pleased to attend other house fellowships in the area, and pray they will increase.

It was good to have one new face last Sunday, Janis from Latvia. Thank you to Faye for bringing Jan, as he is called. Praise, worship, communion, and a look at Haggai 2. There are times when the Lord shakes the earth.

Things which are taken for granted start to look vulnerable, for example, the banking system. People whose integrity is taken for granted are found to be dishonest, etc. This week, such news has emerged. But we are not to fear. And before the Lord returns, there will be a major shaking. And the Lord says to us, “Fear not. I am with you”.

This coming Sunday, 8th February. Jonathan and Paige are guest speakers. There will be a Liberty Lunch after the meeting. If you are reading this, you are invited! 

The prayer meeting at Catfield next week is on Wednesday 11th February.

The following Sunday, 15th February, we will be having a healing meeting, looking at some scriptures on healing, and praying for the sick with the laying on of hands and anointing of oil.  Bring your sick friends.