Why do we so gather?
In this message, Stephen emphasizes the importance of understanding one's identity in Christ, as exemplified by John the Baptist. John knew who he was not, which is crucial for believers today. He baptized with water as a preparation for the coming of Christ, who would baptize with the Holy Spirit. Stephen highlights that the baptism of John was a call to repentance, contrasting it with the transformative baptism of the Holy Spirit that unites believers into one body. He stresses that the authority for gathering as a church comes from the Word of God, not from tradition or personal preference. The early church, as described in Acts, gathered naturally and spiritually without rigid structures, focusing on teaching, fellowship, and prayer. Stephen warns against the dangers of creating a comfortable, man-made system of worship, urging believers to seek God's pattern for the church, which is centered on Christ. He reflects on church history, noting the continuous desire for a return to the simplicity of the New Testament teachings. Ultimately, Stephen calls for a deeper understanding of corporate life in Christ, emphasizing that the church is not merely a gathering but a living body of believers united in purpose and faith.
Outline of Main Points
- Understanding Identity in Christ
- John the Baptist's Role and Baptism
- Authority from the Word of God
- Early Church Practices
- Dangers of Man-Made Worship Systems
- Return to New Testament Simplicity
- Corporate Life in Christ
24 And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. 25 And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? 26 John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not; 27 He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe’s latchet I am not worthy to unloose. 28 These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing.
