WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF OUR ASSEMBLY?

       "How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. (1 Cor 14:26)

Although the purpose of our gatherings is generally known among us, it is good to reaffirm
that design from time to time. Even though we are not to "forsake the assembling of ourselves together" (Heb 10:25), we do not come together out of a sense of mere obligation or duty. The nature of the faith-life requires frequent exposure to, and fellowship with, the sons and daughters of God. Within the context of the "congregation of the saints" (Psa 89:5), benefits can be derived that give the advantage to believers, strengthening their faith, hope, and love. The word for this ministry is "edification," or "edifying." It means to build up, like an edifice, or structure. It is as though each believer is a building project–an individual in whom God is working, conforming them to the image of His Son (Rom 8:29). That work is helped along by others in whom the Lord is also working–"the assembly of the saints" (Psa 89:7).
The church is not a club, or a community gathering of people with similar earthly interests and occupations. It is not where we come to watch the Superbowl, or simply get away from the humdrum of daily life. Here is a place we can both give and receive, be a contributor and a recipient. Our text spells out some of the things given to the Corinthian church. When the people came together, it was possible for everyone to have something–something that would minister to the body. Some brought a psalm, or song. Others had an extended teaching, or doctrine. Some delivered a message in another language–perhaps someone from another country. Others were able to make that message understandable to the rest of the people. This was not intended to be an exhaustive list, but an example of Corinthian possibilities. They were relatively new believers. There is every reason to expect that even more could be done in an assembly of mature disciples. Still, the purpose was not to simply to say something. The Spirit adds, "Let all things be done for edification"–not to entertain or put on a show. Not some things, but "all things." All of this is to be in an orderly environment, where confusion, opinion, and meaningless expressions are out of order. The Spirit says it this way, "But let all things be done properly and in an orderly manner" (1 Cor 14:40). The Lord placed no restrictions on WHO can build up His people, and neither do we. However, it is essential that this be done.