After a person has discovered that he has been in a Christian fellowship that has a great deal of man-made order, and separates from it, he might well ask, “Where then should I go?” When we look out at all the names and divisions in disordered Christendom, this is a perplexing question indeed. But, without hesitation we answer, “To God and the Word of His grace” (Acts 20:3232And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. (Acts 20:32)). We must seek God’s mind in His Word. If all agree that the Word of God is to be the guide for the Christian, then we must look into His Word to find the Scriptural order. We ask therefore, “Which denomination does the Word of God tell me to join?” This answer is obvious: why, to none at all, for it does not speak of joining denominations! The answer is clear then. Then, I can’t belong to one of any kind or size, for in doing so I would be putting myself in a position where the Word of God has not placed me.
The Pattern of the Apostolic Church
Turning to God and the Word of His grace, we find that He has not left us without light on this subject. “Unto the upright, there ariseth light in the darkness” (Psa. 112:44Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. (Psalm 112:4); Psa. 119:105; 130105NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105)). If we are truly upright about this, He will show us. His Word says, “And this is love, that ye walk after His commandments. This is the commandment, that as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it” (2 John 66And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. (2 John 6)). This is one great principle that will guide us in this matter. It indicates that in a day of departure and confusion, when evil teaching and practice are prevalent in the Christian testimony, (for that is the context of this 2nd epistle of John—see vss. 7-11), we must return to that which was “from the beginning”—to the first principles of Christianity. We need to go to the Word of God and see how the church in the days of the apostles met for worship and ministry, and let that be our pattern.
The Church is Not Revealed in the Old Testament
When we look into the Word of God to study the order and function of the church, we must look into the New Testament, and particularly, the epistles. It is here that the truth of the church is unfolded.
One of the greatest keys to understanding what the church is, is to see that it forms no part of the Old Testament revelation. Christ and His church is God's great mystery (Eph. 5:3232This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. (Ephesians 5:32)). A “mystery,” in the Biblical sense, does not mean something that is mysterious and hard to understand, but a secret that God has kept hidden from before the world was made (Rom. 16:2525Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, (Romans 16:25)). Now that the secret has been revealed, it is not something that is difficult to understand. The great secret of God’s eternal purpose, is that when Israel would reject their Messiah, and consequently be set aside for a time in God's governmental dealings, that the Holy Spirit through the gospel, would gather out of all nations, believing Jews and Gentiles to compose a new and heavenly company of saints who would be united to Christ as His body and bride. This is something that was hidden in the heart of God, and not revealed in the Old Testament (Eph. 3:99And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: (Ephesians 3:9)). Those in other ages knew nothing of it, for it did not even begin until the day of Pentecost (Matt. 16:1818And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (Matthew 16:18); Acts 2:1-3, 47; 11:151And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. (Acts 2:1‑3)
47Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. (Acts 2:47)
15And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. (Acts 11:15)). This secret then, was not made known until New Testament times, through the special ministry of the Apostle Paul. (Eph. 3:2-5, 92If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: 3How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, 4Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) 5Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; (Ephesians 3:2‑5)
9And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: (Ephesians 3:9); Col. 1:24-2724Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church: 25Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; 26Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: 27To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: (Colossians 1:24‑27)).
The mystery is not Christ in His person, nor is it His perfect life in this world as a Man, nor is it His death and His resurrection, nor is it His coming to reign over this world in power and glory. All these things were spoken of in the Old Testament Scriptures. The marvelous secret now revealed is that Christ would have a complement (the church—His body and bride) at His side in that coming day when He will publicly reign over this world. From the day of Pentecost until the coming of Christ (the Rapture), God is calling people out of all nations by the gospel to be part of this wonderful privilege (Acts 15:1414Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. (Acts 15:14)).
Now, seeing that the truth of the church forms no part of the Old Testament, we do not turn to it to learn how the church should worship and function administratively, since it is not there. This is an extremely important point. It is something that many Christians have misunderstood.
The Old Testament is a Book of Types And Figures For the Christian
We do not say that the Old Testament should not be read by Christians. It is quite the opposite. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:1616All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (2 Timothy 3:16)). The New Testament makes it clear that “whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope” (Rom. 15:44For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. (Romans 15:4)). This shows that even though the Old Testament was not written to us as Christians, it was written for us. It is of utmost importance for us to see that, apart from moral issues (for they never change with God), the way Christians are to read and apply the Old Testament is in type and figure. The things that are recorded in the Old Testament Scriptures are now types and figures for us as Christians (1 Cor. 10:1111Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. (1 Corinthians 10:11); Heb. 8:5; 9:9, 23-24; 10:1; 11:195Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern showed to thee in the mount. (Hebrews 8:5)
9Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; (Hebrews 9:9)
23It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. 24For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: (Hebrews 9:23‑24)
1For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. (Hebrews 10:1)
19Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. (Hebrews 11:19); 1 Cor. 9:9-109For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? 10Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. (1 Corinthians 9:9‑10); Gal. 4:2424Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. (Galatians 4:24); Rom. 4:23; 5:1423Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; (Romans 4:23)
14Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. (Romans 5:14); John 5:3939Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. (John 5:39); Luke 24:27, 4427And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. (Luke 24:27)
44And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. (Luke 24:44)). We are instructed from the Old Testament by learning the underlying principles therein.
Judaism is Not a Pattern For Christian Worship
Notwithstanding, the churches in Christendom have ignored the plain teaching of Scripture that says that the tabernacle is a figure of the true sanctuary into which we now have access by the Spirit (Heb. 9:8-9, 23-248The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: 9Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; (Hebrews 9:8‑9)
23It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. 24For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: (Hebrews 9:23‑24)). Instead, they have used the tabernacle as a pattern for their church buildings. They have borrowed many things from the Old Testament in a literal sense for their places of worship and religious services. In doing so, the true meaning of what those things figuratively signify is lost from sight. Magnificent buildings and cathedrals after the pattern of the Old Testament temple have been set up in Christendom. Often they name these buildings “Temple” or “Tabernacle” in keeping with the Old Testament Judaism. Some denominations have gone so far as to rail off one part of their building as being more holy than the rest, and they speak of it as being “the Sanctuary,” as in the Old Testament tabernacle. All this shows that Christians have long lost sight of the fact that the house of God today is “a spiritual house” made up of redeemed persons (1 Cor. 3:99For we are laborers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. (1 Corinthians 3:9); Eph. 2:19-2219Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. (Ephesians 2:19‑22); Heb. 3:66But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. (Hebrews 3:6); 1 Peter 2:55Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2:5)), and not a material literal thing.
The following is a list of some of the things that the church has borrowed from Judaism:
• The use of literal temples and cathedrals for places of worship.
• A special caste of men who officiate on behalf of the congregation.
• The use of musical instruments to aid worship.
• The use of a choir.
• The use of incense to create a spiritual atmosphere.
• The use of religious robes on the “Ministers” and choir members.
• The use of a literal (non-sacrificial) altar.
• The practice of tithing.
• The observance of holy days and religious festivals.
• A registry of names of the congregation.
It is true that many of these Judaic things have been altered somewhat to fit into a Christian context, but they still have the trappings of Judaism. This kind of Jewish influence of principles and practices has permeated the church. Much of it has been around in Christianity for so long that it has become accepted by the masses as God’s ideal. Most think that it is good to have this Judeo-Christian mixture. Unfortunately, mixing these two distinct orders of approach to God has destroyed the distinctiveness of each, and what has resulted from the mixture is neither Jewish nor Christian.
Church Buildings—A Help or A Hindrance To the Gospel?
The general public has become so accustomed to seeing church buildings and cathedrals, that they think that it is God’s ideal. In most people’s minds they are synonymous with Christianity. But the New Testament does not even hint that it is God’s will for the church. There are at least good five reasons why these edifices connected with Christianity tend to hinder rather than help the gospel.
1) They are unscriptural.
As we have already shown, there is simply no basis for it in the New Testament.
2) They send a wrong message to the world.
People may well be led to think that Christianity is a continuation of Judaism, only with some new Christian alterations. They may falsely conclude that God dwells in “temples made with hands,” and can only be worshipped therein (Acts 17:24-2524God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; 25Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; (Acts 17:24‑25)). Hence, there comes the false idea that one must go to a “church” building to pray and be near God.
3) They are not economical.
To put such emphasis on luxurious buildings while there are millions of people around the world in spiritual and material need, is simply not a good use of money. The major part of the funds the church receives in its collections should be for the support of the gospel and the dissemination of the truth, not for funding modern building programs and parachurch organizations. The heavy payments on principal and interest tend to cause church leaders to encourage more generous offerings in order to pay for the building and its upkeep. Moreover, people may be led to think that God is only interested in money. With thousands of dollars being received weekly, it seems that the church does not have so much a problem in giving, as it does in directing the funds when received. Hudson Taylor said, “The problem of the church is not insufficient funds, but unconsecrated funds!”
4) They are hypocritical.
By building huge edifices on one hand, and then on the other hand tell the world that we love them and are deeply interested in their souls, does not have a very convincing message. If the church is so interested in the needy people of this world, why doesn't it sacrifice a little of its ornate splendor? By building such things the church is demonstrating that it has more concern for its own glory and comfort than it does for people in need.
5) They are intimidating.
It is difficult to get people to attend meetings in the lavish church buildings connected with Christianity. Imposing buildings tend to deter, not attract, people who have had little or no Christian exposure. The whole thing is usually obnoxious to them. (People of the world sometimes have a better sense of what is proper to Christianity than Christians—Luke 16:88And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. (Luke 16:8).) There is a strong reaction against formalism among the young especially. There is also a fear of being solicited for funds. Yet many of these same people are willing to attend a conversational Bible study in a home or in a less pretentious hall. They are more comfortable in an informal, unprofessional atmosphere, and therefore, more likely to receive the gospel.
These great buildings then, are really counter-productive to the gospel, and only show us that we are not wiser than the Word of God. The simple pattern that He has given us in His Word is always the best, for “His way is perfect” (Psa. 18:3030As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. (Psalm 18:30)).
Christianity is Characteristically Heavenly
If we are going to understand what true Christianity is, we must see that Judaism and Christianity are really two distinct and contrasting orders of worship—both set up of God. Judaism is an earthly way of approaching God in worship, given by Him for an earthly people with earthly hopes and an earthly inheritance. Christianity, on the other hand, is a heavenly order of worship, given by Him for His heavenly people who have heavenly hopes and a heavenly inheritance (Heb. 3:11Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; (Hebrews 3:1); Col. 1:55For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; (Colossians 1:5); Phil. 3:2020For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: (Philippians 3:20); 1 Peter 1:44To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, (1 Peter 1:4)).
Consequently, in true Christianity there is not the keeping of holy days or special religious festivals, for those things belong to earthly religion. When the Galatians turned aside after the weak and beggarly elements of earthly religion, the apostle Paul rebuked them saying, “How turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years” (Gal. 4:9-109But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? 10Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. (Galatians 4:9‑10)). Israel observed special religious holy days because they had an earthly religion. This was right and proper for them, but the church, which belongs to heaven, has no such thing. Notwithstanding, the denominations have largely lost sight of the heavenly calling of the church and have invented special religious days such as; Good Friday, All Saints Day, Lent, etc. These things are found nowhere in the Bible. Colossians 2:16-1716Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. (Colossians 2:16‑17) tells us, “Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of a holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: which are a shadow of things to come.” There is only one day that should have any significance for a Christian, and that is “the Lord’s day”—the first day of the week (Rev. 1:1010I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, (Revelation 1:10)).
True Christianity is “Without the Camp”
The New Testament indicates that the early church, which was predominantly made up of Jewish converts, left that Judaic order of things (after some prompting) for true Christianity. The burden of the epistle to the Hebrews is to show that Christian worship is actually a contrast to Judaic worship, not an extension of it.
After many points are made to this end in the epistle, the conclusion of the whole matter is to exhort the church to leave that Judaic order of things altogether because the Lord Jesus Christ is presently outside of it all! It says, “Let us go forth therefore unto Him without the camp, bearing His reproach” (Heb. 13:1313Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach. (Hebrews 13:13)). The “camp” is a term that stands for Judaism and all of its related principles and practices. A Jew would have no difficulty understanding what this term meant, since it was used in the Old Testament in connection with Israel. The early church went “without the camp.” Under Paul’s teaching they were brought to see that Christianity was not an addition or an alteration of Judaism as many Christians today think, but an entirely “new” way of approaching God in worship (Heb. 10:2020By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; (Hebrews 10:20)). It was something that was difficult for converted Jews to do at first, and God bore with them in patience. It was actually the cause for the writing of the Hebrew/Christian epistles. These epistles (Hebrews, James, 1 Peter) are particularly devoted to taking the converted Jew out of Judaism and establishing Him in Christianity. They are also very applicable for the church today, which has immersed itself in a quasi-Judaic order of things, and desperately needs extrication there from.
Since the so-called churches in Christendom have taken many Judaic things and have woven them into their system of worship, so that it has become an integral part of their services, Hebrews 13:1313Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach. (Hebrews 13:13), in principle, is a very needed exhortation today. We are to leave “the camp” wherever we see it, whether it is in the Jewish synagogues or in the man-made denominational churches of Christendom. This verse also furnishes us with another reason why we are to separate from the denominational and non-denominational churches. It exhorts us to go unto Christ who is now outside of that earthly order of things, because Judaism is an order of worship, though originally set up of God, that has been set aside.
Christian Worship Is “In Spirit and Truth”
This change in the way of approach to God in worship was first announced by the Lord Jesus to the Samaritan woman at Sychar’s well. He indicated to her that there was going to be a cessation of that earthly order of worship. He said, “Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father” (John 4:2121Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. (John 4:21)). That “mountain” (Gerizim) was the place where the Samaritans worshipped, and “Jerusalem” was the place where Israel worshipped Jehovah. But now all that was going to give way to an entirely new way of worship and approach to God. (We are told elsewhere that after the church is called home to heaven at the Lord’s coming—the Rapture, that Judaism will once more be resumed on earth by Israel and the converted Gentiles, because it is the proper way for earthly people to worship God. See Ezekiel 40-48. This shows that Judaism is not bad, it has just been set aside for a time while God is calling out a heavenly company—the church.)
The Lord also told the Samaritan woman that another change would occur. While Israel worshipped Jehovah, Christians would now worship “the Father.” This was a new thing and is distinctly a Christian revelation, for to approach God as the Father was not known in the Old Testament.
Furthermore, He showed her that there was also going to be a change in the character of worship. The Lord said, “The hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship Him” (John 4:23-2423But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:23‑24)). Worshipping in “spirit and in truth” is a spiritual worship according to the Christian revelation of the truth. This was something that did not characterize Israel’s worship, because the Lord clearly indicated that it was something that was about to begin; it was not in practice then. Israel’s worship of Jehovah was through ritual and ceremony. They had a religion that was designed, if at all possible, to induce man in the flesh to worship God. This was because man at that time was still under testing (from Adam to the cross of Christ is 40 centuries—the number signifying testing). Hence, practically every outward means in the name of religion was employed to reach this end. But Christians do not need a religion of ritual and ceremony to worship God—as did Israel—because we now have access by the Spirit into the very presence of God (Eph. 2:18; 3:1218For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. (Ephesians 2:18)
12In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. (Ephesians 3:12); Heb. 10:19-2219Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, 20By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; 21And having an high priest over the house of God; 22Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. (Hebrews 10:19‑22)). In Christianity, the worship is aided by the indwelling Holy Spirit, not by the efforts of men's hands (Phil. 3:33For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. (Philippians 3:3); Acts 17:24-2524God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; 25Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; (Acts 17:24‑25)). This is a blessing that Israel did not have. Christian worship is a “new and living way” (Heb. 10:2020By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; (Hebrews 10:20)). It is “new” because it is not a rehash of Judaism, and it is “living” because one must have a new life (born again) to approach God in this heavenly way.
Spiritual Sacrifices or a 'Music Ministry'
Consequently, Christian sacrifices are not an outward literal thing as in Judaism, but are “spiritual sacrifices” (1 Peter 2:55Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2:5); Heb. 13:1515By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. (Hebrews 13:15); John 4:2323But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. (John 4:23); Phil. 3:33For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. (Philippians 3:3)). Since the Christian worships “in spirit and in truth,” he could sit motionless in a chair, and there could be produced in his spirit, true praise and worship to God by the indwelling Holy Spirit. This is true heavenly worship. The Christian does not need an orchestra or a choir to draw out the worship of his heart, as did Israel in Judaism. To worship with the aid of musical instruments is really worshipping on Jewish ground. Mixing Christian knowledge and revelation with the Jewish order of worship (which is essentially what most so-called churches in Christendom are doing) is not true Christianity. In heaven there will be no need for those outward mechanical props in the worship of God. And Christians have no need for them now, for they are to worship God now in that heavenly way.
Two Instruments in Christian Worship
This is why we do not read of any instances in the book of the Acts or in the epistles, where Christians worshipped the Lord using musical instruments. There is not one mention in the New Testament epistles where Christian worship was aided by musical instruments. The only two instruments Christians use to worship God are their “hearts” (Col. 3:1616Let 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. (Colossians 3:16); Eph. 5:1919Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; (Ephesians 5:19)) and their “lips” (Hebrews 13:1515By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. (Hebrews 13:15)). In Christianity we only read of “singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord” (Eph. 5:1919Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; (Ephesians 5:19); Col 3:1616Let 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. (Colossians 3:16)). We are told to “offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name” (Hebrews 13:1515By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. (Hebrews 13:15)). Regardless of this, the distinction between Christian worship and Judaism has been ignored in the denominations. Musical bands (sometimes large orchestras) have become an integral part of today’s Christian “worship services.” It is called a “music ministry,” but the purpose seems to be more for entertainment of the audiences than for ministry.
Not only does the Word of God give no direction for Christians to worship in this way, church history tells us that music had virtually no part in Christianity for the first 1400 years! (There has been the complete absence of music in the church in the first 700 years, followed by much stormy opposition to it during the next 700 years.) It is only in the last few centuries that music has become accepted and used in worship and gospel activity. We ask, “If a so-called ‘music ministry’ is as important to assembly life as the church today emphasizes, why didn’t the Apostle Paul exhort the assemblies to which he wrote, to make sure to have a “music ministry” in their meetings?” And, “Why is there no mention of it in the New Testament?” We believe that musical instruments in worship—and many other man-made things that have been introduced—are evidence of the departure that Scripture tells us would come into the church. As things in the Christian testimony have departed farther and farther from God’s order, music has slowly gained a place (and not without opposition), until it has been accepted as normal for Christian worship. It may well have come in through good intentions, but still it has no place in Christian worship.
We do not say that a Christian should not play music, but that it has no place in Christian worship. J. N. Darby said, “If I could put a poor sick father to sleep with music, I would play the most beautiful I could find; but it only spoils any worship as bringing in the pleasure of sense into what ought to be the power of the Spirit of God.”
New Wine in New Bottles
Notwithstanding, many Christians reject this, and insist that Israel’s way of approach to God in worship is indeed the pattern for Christian worship. We ask, “If Israel’s way of worship in the Old Testament is the pattern for Christian worship, then why does Scripture say that Christian worship is a ‘new’ way of worship?” (Heb. 10:2020By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; (Hebrews 10:20))
The Lord knew that there would be an attempt to attach the old order of things to the new order in Christianity, and He warned that by doing so, it would be like putting a new patch on an old garment, and new wine in old bottles (Luke 5:36-3936And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old. 37And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. 38But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved. 39No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better. (Luke 5:36‑39)). The result would be that both would be spoiled. This is just what has happened in the Christian profession. He went on to say that “new wine” must be put into “new bottles.” This means that the new things connected with Christian worship need to be found in a new Christian setting suited to that worship. The Lord also said that when one who is accustomed to the old wine of Judaic things is presented with the new wine of Christianity, he will at first say that the old is better (Luke 5:3939No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better. (Luke 5:39)). Being affectionately attached to that outward order of worship that appeals so greatly to the senses, a person does not easily let go of it. As we have said, the epistle to the Hebrews carefully deals with this problem. It takes up one feature of Judaism after another, and compares it with what we now have in Christianity, and concludes in almost every chapter, that we have something “better” (Heb. 1:4; 6:9; 7:7, 19, 22; 8:6; 9:23; 10:34; 11:4, 16, 35, 40; 12:244Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. (Hebrews 1:4)
9But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. (Hebrews 6:9)
7And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better. (Hebrews 7:7)
19For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God. (Hebrews 7:19)
22By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. (Hebrews 7:22)
6But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises. (Hebrews 8:6)
23It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. (Hebrews 9:23)
34For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance. (Hebrews 10:34)
4By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. (Hebrews 11:4)
16But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. (Hebrews 11:16)
35Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: (Hebrews 11:35)
40God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect. (Hebrews 11:40)
24And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel. (Hebrews 12:24)).
Christians Are to Meet Together For Worship and Ministry in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ and Wait on the Leading of the Spirit
Looking into the New Testament as our guide for the function of a Christian assembly, we see that God’s great purpose is to exalt His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. We learn that God thinks so much of His Son that He has set the highest value on His name. The Bible says that He has “given Him a Name which is above every name: that at the Name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth [infernal beings]” (Phil. 2:9-109Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; (Philippians 2:9‑10); Eph. 1:2020Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, (Ephesians 1:20)). The Lord Jesus told His disciples that when the church would be formed after His death (at Pentecost) that His NAME was to be their gathering point. He said, “For where two or three are gathered together unto my name there am I in the midst of them” (Matt. 18:2020For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. (Matthew 18:20)). The early church did this. They met in that exalted name of the Lord Jesus when they gathered together for worship, ministry, and administrative responsibilities (1 Cor. 5:44In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, (1 Corinthians 5:4)). They took no other name than His. This is still God’s pattern for the church today!
What must angels think, knowing and delighting in the exalted name of Jesus Christ, when they see Christians coming together for worship on earth bearing all sorts of denominational and non-denominational names? While God sets the highest value on the Name of Jesus, men say that it doesn’t matter what name you bare! We ask, “Will the Lord's people bear those names in heaven? Will there be Presbyterian, Baptist, Christian Reformed, Methodist, Pentecostal, Alliance, etc. up there?” No, when we get there, all other names will be gone.
The name of Christ is supreme in heaven. And it should be on earth too! The Lord Jesus taught His disciples that God wants His will to be done on earth as it is done in heaven. They were to pray to that end. “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven” (Matt. 6:1010Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. (Matthew 6:10)). Yet in spite of this, Christians on earth still want to meet together under all kinds of sectarian names, even though they admit there will be no such thing in heaven! If we honestly prayed, “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,” we would have to give up every name and sect on earth as it is done in heaven. Surely, the Lord Jesus is worthy that we should meet together in no other name but His alone.
What a difference there is today from the days of the apostles. In their day, the Lord Jesus Christ was the exalted Name to which they gathered: to exalt another name, though it be a Paul, or a Cephas, was denounced by the Spirit of God as carnality and schismatic (1 Cor. 1:12; 3:3-512Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:12)
3For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 4For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? 5Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? (1 Corinthians 3:3‑5)). What a sad departure from God’s order to see so many Christians today bearing all kinds of different denominational names.
If we, in faith, simply acknowledged our weakness, and took our place of expressed dependence on God, and were gathered together unto the name of the Lord Jesus alone, under the leading of the Spirit, we would find that Christ would be in the midst as He promised. Even if there were but two or three who sought to act on this Word, they would experience the joy of His presence with them. They might receive reproach from other Christians for meeting in such a simple way, for the Word of God says that if we go outside “the camp” we will surely bear “His reproach” (Heb. 13:1313Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach. (Hebrews 13:13)). But they would also have the happy confidence that they were meeting according to the Word of God. This is because there is a joy in doing God's will that is known only to those who do it.
The Biblical Practice of Christians Meeting Together For Worship and Ministry
Besides being gathered together unto the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we also learn from the New Testament that the early church came together for at least four main reasons. It says, “They continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:4242And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. (Acts 2:42)). These are the same reasons why the church today should gather together. We might call them "the four anchors" of assembly life.
Firstly, the early church assembled for the learning of “the apostles' doctrine.” We need meetings specifically for the learning of the truth of Scripture too. However, a lot of Christians do not regard doctrine as being important. It seems with many, that as long as we all get along together and love the Lord, that it doesn’t really matter what a person holds as to doctrine. The Bible teaching in the denominations generally reflects this attitude. The focus of most sermons is usually geared to some practical point in Christian living. As a consequence, people do not get grounded in the truth. Many dear Christians spend their lives being “tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine” that comes their way (Eph. 4:1414That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (Ephesians 4:14)). We need to have meetings, as the early church had, that are led by the Spirit, where two or three might address the saints in a word of exhortation, or in a presentation of the truth. Paul said, “Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the others judge. 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 [encouraged]. And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets” (1 Cor. 14:29-3229Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. 30If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. 31For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. 32And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. (1 Corinthians 14:29‑32)). A Bible reading too, where the Scriptures are read, and brethren have opportunity to expound on a passage for the edification of the assembly, is also a viable means of communicating the truth to the saints. It was the practice of the brethren in the early church to come together for the reading of the Scriptures. Paul exhorted Timothy, “Give attendance to reading (Literally – “the readings”), to exhortation, to doctrine” (1 Tim. 4:1313Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. (1 Timothy 4:13)). The kind of reading Paul was referring to is not personal Bible study, but the public reading out of the Scriptures to others. The fact that “exhortation” and “teaching” are connected with the reading out of the Scriptures, naturally suggests that there was opportunity for those, like Timothy, who were able, to make comments on the passages read for the edification of the others. These are the basic elements of a reading meeting. It is God’s way for Christians to get established in the truth.
The early church also met together for Christian “fellowship.” Many Christians see fellowship as nothing more than getting together with other Christians for recreation and sports. There is certainly nothing wrong with recreation, but Christian fellowship is fellowship over Christian things. These are divine things that we have in common with all other members in the body of Christ. In the early church, this no doubt, took place when they were together for the learning of the apostles’ doctrine, for it is closely connected with it in that verse. However, we should not confine our fellowship with other believers to when we are assembled together for the learning of the truth only; we need to have one another in our homes too.
Furthermore, the early church also met together for the “breaking of bread.” After the church was established, each first day of the week (the Lord’s Day) they came together to break bread (Acts 20:77And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight. (Acts 20:7)). This is a privilege that we have too, as the Lord requested, “This do in remembrance of Me” (Luke 22:1919And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. (Luke 22:19)). Notwithstanding, this again is something that is apparently not that important to Christians today, for most church groups have the Lord’s supper once a month, or every three months. The manner too, in which it is done, is often barely recognizable from that in Scripture. Even when it is done, it is usually something that is squeezed in for a few minutes during the middle of the church “services.” Often it is done with a mixed company of believers and unbelievers, even though when the Lord instituted the supper, He indicated that only true believers were to break bread in remembrance of Him (John 13:3030He then having received the sop went immediately out: and it was night. (John 13:30); Luke 22:1919And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. (Luke 22:19); 1 Cor. 11:23-2623For 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: 24And 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. 25After 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. 26For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come. (1 Corinthians 11:23‑26)). He wants those whom He has redeemed to take time to think on Him—to contemplate the great cost of their redemption. We would not be dogmatic about this, but it seems that when the Lord instituted the supper, that there was an hour set-aside for that purpose (Luke 22:1414And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. (Luke 22:14)).
And lastly, they met together on regular occasions for “prayers” (Acts 4:23-31; 12:12-1723And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them. 24And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is: 25Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? 26The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ. 27For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, 28For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done. 29And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, 30By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus. 31And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. (Acts 4:23‑31)
12And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying. 13And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. 14And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. 15And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel. 16But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished. 17But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go show these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place. (Acts 12:12‑17)). The original language says, “the prayers,” indicating that they had specific times when they came together for that purpose. Hence the early church had prayer meetings when they would collectively express their dependence upon the Lord for their needs. This is again something that is sadly lacking in the church today. Many Christian groups have only Sunday services. A mid-week prayer meeting is all but gone in many places. And those that do have prayer meetings, generally have poor attendance. This only proves that Christians today do not consider prayer meetings important. Nevertheless, the Lord would have His people gather regularly for prayers.
These are the main kinds of meetings that the early church assembled together for, and they are what we need today in the church. They are essential to the spiritual health of an assembly, and are the reason God has recorded it for us in His Word. The “apostles doctrine” forms our “fellowship,” the “breaking of bread” expresses it, and the “prayers” maintain it. These four things have been called the four anchors of assembly life. (There is another kind of assembly meeting that Scripture indicates—a meeting for discipline; but it is of a different character – 1 Cor. 5:4-54In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, 5To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. (1 Corinthians 5:4‑5).)
As we look over these four basic things, we ask again, “Do we need all or any of the extra accessories that are in Christendom today to do these simple things?” No, the early church did not need them, and neither do we! Why not then, just return to the pure and simple Christianity that is found in the Bible, and find what a blessing it can be?
The Practical Consequences of Letting Go of the “Four Anchors”
If we let go of any one or all of these “anchors,” there is going to be serious practical consequences felt in our lives. An illustration of this is in Acts 27:40-4140And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoised up the mainsail to the wind, and made toward shore. 41And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves. (Acts 27:40‑41). When the sailors cut themselves loose from the “four anchors,” they soon fell upon the rocks and were shipwrecked. Like those sailors, some Christians think they can cut themselves loose from these four important things and there will be no consequences. But sooner or later they drift into spiritual danger and make “shipwreck” (1 Tim. 1:1919Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: (1 Timothy 1:19)). Without meetings specifically arranged for these purposes, we are going to drift in some area of our Christian lives. A good question to ask ourselves is, “How many of these anchors do I have in my life?”
Without “the apostles’ doctrine” we will not get “established in the present truth” (2 Peter 1:1212Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. (2 Peter 1:12)). Consequently, we will be “tossed to and fro, and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the slight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive” (Eph. 4:1414That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (Ephesians 4:14)). Some Christians think that doctrine should be left to the “Pastor” of their church, but Scripture says that the truth has been delivered through the apostles to the saints—all of them, not just a special qualified group among the saints (Jude 33Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. (Jude 3)). It was not delivered to the apostles, but through the apostles to the saints. The apostles were not the terminals of the truth: they were merely the channels through which it would come to us. Christian doctrine, therefore, is for every Christian to know, and enjoy, and walk in. J. N. Darby said, “No Christian knows his true place without it.” Let us, therefore, pay attention to doctrine, for there is a practical salvation connected with it (1 Tim. 4:15-1615Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. 16Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. (1 Timothy 4:15‑16)). We cannot live properly without it.
Without “fellowship” with other Christians in divine things, we will not get corrected and adjusted in our thoughts on doctrine, and in any personal faults and quirks we may have. Being with other Christians will do this for us. Furthermore, if we do not walk in practical fellowship with our brethren, misunderstandings will come in, and this often leads to strife and contention (Phil. 2:2-32Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. (Philippians 2:2‑3)).
Without “prayer” our lives will become independent of Him Who is our Head. We will begin to choose our own way through life, not holding the Head (Col. 2:1919And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God. (Colossians 2:19)). Without dependence on the Lord, we will surely make steps that will take us out of the Christian path.
Three or Four Outward, Tangible Things In Christianity
If we practice simple Christianity as found in the Bible, we will find that there are really very few tangible things in the whole new order of Christian worship:
• The ordinance of baptism.
• The ordinance of the Lord’s supper.
• The Bible.
• The head covering.
The reason Christianity has so few outward things is that it is a faith system. Scripture says, “We walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Cor. 5:77(For we walk by faith, not by sight:) (2 Corinthians 5:7)). Having a new life (new birth) and the indwelling Spirit of God, we need nothing more to practice Christianity. Christians could meet together for worship and ministry in a house, a kitchen, or in a barn, etc; and if it was done according to the Word of God and the Spirit of God, they would have the Lord in their midst. The Lord’s supper was first instituted in a guest room in a house in Jerusalem (Luke 22:7-207Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed. 8And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that we may eat. 9And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare? 10And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he entereth in. 11And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The Master saith unto thee, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples? 12And he shall show you a large upper room furnished: there make ready. 13And they went, and found as he had said unto them: and they made ready the passover. 14And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. 15And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer: 16For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God. 17And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves: 18For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come. 19And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. 20Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you. (Luke 22:7‑20)). His presence in their midst was all they needed.
Now, we ask, “Where is all the embellishment of Christendom’s professional religion in this simple pattern for Christians meeting together for worship and ministry? Where is the need for building huge cathedrals and complex denominational organization? Where is the need for the orchestras, the entertainment, and the money that too often marks the churches in Christendom?” Why it’s gone in a moment! If it is true that Christianity has only these few tangible things, then it is all swept away in a single stroke. But where is Christ in this simple way of meeting together? He is in the midst where He promised to be! (Matt. 18:2020For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. (Matthew 18:20)). And if we have Christ, we have all that we need.