Stephen reflects on the fundamental purpose of Christian gathering, emphasizing that it is rooted in God's eternal purpose concerning His Son, Jesus Christ. He recounts the story of D.L. Moody and Haring Henry Morehouse to illustrate how a simple focus on God's love, exemplified through John 3:16, transformed Moody’s ministry from a fear-based to a love-centered message. This shift underscores that our gatherings are not for personal needs or denominational pride but to fulfill God's purpose of making Christ preeminent in all things. Stephen stresses that the church's true identity is to be gathered unto the name of Jesus Christ alone, not under human leaders, doctrines, or organizations, but under His authority and presence. He highlights that "unto His name" signifies submitting to His headship and living under His authority, which is essential for unity and effective expression of Christ. The gathering is also for building up the body of Christ through commitment, facing crises, and bearing the cross—necessary steps for spiritual growth and unity. Furthermore, Stephen emphasizes that the church is a living organism, not an organization, called to express Christ corporately and function as a priesthood, serving God and the world. Ultimately, our purpose in gathering is to work with God, manifest His wisdom, and fulfill His divine plan through Christ, seeking His glory and unity among believers.
Purpose of Gathering: To fulfill God's purpose concerning His Son, Christ, and to express Him fully.
Gathering unto His Name: Signifies submitting to Christ's authority, not just using His name as a title.
Unity in the Body: Based on the Spirit, not denominational or doctrinal differences; rooted in the oneness of Christ.
Building the Church: Requires commitment, facing crises, and bearing the cross to grow spiritually and corporately.
Function of the Church: To serve as a living organism, expressing Christ, and functioning as a priesthood under the Holy Spirit.
Our Mission: To work with God, manifest His wisdom, and bring His kingdom to earth through Christ.
19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;
22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.