We don’t have a temple today—we are the temple (2 Cor. 6:16). From the book of Acts, we know it was a practice of the early church to meet at the temple or somewhere on the temple mount and publicly proclaim the message of Christ. Another meeting place for the early church was the home.
Look at these passages from the book of Acts. “Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart” (Acts 2:46). “And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they kept right on teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ” (Acts 5:42). “How I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from house to house” (Acts 20:20). In his letters, Paul mentions several families that had the church meeting in their home (Rom. 16:5; 1 Cor. 16:19; Col. 4:15; Phile. 1:2). There are some great benefits for us meeting in our homes once a month. Meeting in the home during the week…
Provides opportunities for spiritual growth. The more contact I have with God’s word the more He can influence me and use me for His work. It is also great for children to feel that they can help and be a part of what is happening and seeing their parents live their faith.
Makes it easier to invite friends and coworkers. It is easier to say, “Come over to my house” than, “Come to church with me.” Many people are apprehensive about visiting a church building, but going over to a friend’s house is less intimidating.
Is great for “one-anothering.” There are so many responsibilities that we have to one another and these types of events provide opportunities for that to happen.
Can foster closer relationships and community. Seeing each other more frequently and outside of the normal worship times will help us to grow closer to one another. With more familiarity, hopefully, we will feel comfortable enough to open up and ask for help.
Provides opportunities to develop leaders. People will have to step up and lead, and this is a great environment to learn how to lead.
As we look at the possibilities, this has the potential to help us grow as individuals and as a congregation. There is also a possibility for greater impact in our communities and Palm Beach County. Send me one soul today!