Cottage Meetings

[1watchman]

COTTAGE MEETINGS

What is known as House Meetings is not a new thing. In the beginning the church met in homes (even a "upper room"), and later rented buildings. Many assemblies from the past couple of centuries have met in homes (often called Cottage Meetings). One can read more about this at the Bible Counsel site: Bible Counsel. Since the revival of church truth in the early 1800's assemblies often meet in homes until growing large enough to need to rent or own a building for it. The important thing about such a gathering is that it must be fully scriptural, without innovations, religous ceremonies, carnal reasoning and activities, and should express the truth of "one body in Christ" worldwide. That is getting back to basics and holding what God intended for His church testimony in the world, I believe.

- 1 Watchman

 

[Johnnz]

If you look at the phrase "one another' in the NT you will soon sense why Christians met together. Together they explored their ongoing journey with Jesus. They met not primarily to worship God as we understand that word but for each other. Small groups allow this to happen best.

John
NZ

 

[1watchman]

It is true that we need each other for help and encouragement, and Matt. 18 shows the importance of collective testimony. We need to study together for help, lest we go off with some idea that is contrary to the Word, and by joining in praise we honor God. Correction and discipline is part of this also that apostates do not draw faithful ones away by deceit, etc. Acts 2:41-42 give us that which the church should hold and practice. God would have us together, as He often declares, even as we will be in Heaven. The local expression of the church was never intended to be a great religious organization, but a company of faithful worshippers.

- 1 Watchman

 

[Jamey]

What God has made so simple for us we have taken and made it into an impossible mess.
It seems that we did the same thing to Grace too.
Sorry, just random thoughts after reading the above excellent posts.
J.

 

[Episaw]

and later rented buildings

Can you tell me where it says in scripture that the NT church rented buildings? I seem to have missed those.

 

[Episaw]

(often called Cottage Meetings).

This term comes from the UK. A house that was single storey was known as a "cottage."

 

[1watchman]

Yes, but one does not need to call it a "cottage", but that name kind of stuck down through the years from the beginning in the UK in the 1800's. It is different, though, than what is happening in the so-called "House Churches". That revival of over 180 years ago was and still is fully scriptural and is worldwide. You can write me personally if you would be interested in the subject further. Look up always!

- 1 Watchman

 

[Matthewop]

ok. Thanks for offering this.. IT is very useful!!