One definition of ‘Church’ is an assembly of people. So, the assemblies who were believers of Jesus Christ met and still meet in the outdoors, in homes, and in buildings. No matter the beauty of many meeting places, the emphasis of those meetings should be the sharing of the Word of God from the Holy Bible. If monetary offerings are taken, I believe it should further the efforts of spreading the gospel and furthering the works that Jesus did, like taking care of people in destitute circumstances.

So, what happened to start a need for people to gather to praise and worship God and learn about His Son, Jesus? Jesus came to earth to die for people’s sins and was raised from the dead to soon return to heaven. Jesus told people that one day, when they die, they can go to Heaven if they believe in Him. And, while He was on earth, his life was to be an example to live by, which showed kindness, love, and compassion. He also taught the importance of forgiveness.

Of course, living by these standards helps the world to become a better place.

When Jesus told his 11 disciples to spread the Word of the news of His Resurrection, it was the hottest news around. It didn’t take long for the need for people to meet in bigger places than their homes. Hundreds met outdoors when Jesus was preaching. As the Good News (of Jesus and why He came to earth) became more popular, it became obvious that bigger places were needed for assemblies, especially in bad weather. So meeting places, or churches, began to be built through the efforts of the Jewish disciples, according to the Christian Bible. When Jesus was pre-paring to go on to Heaven, he proceeded to tell the disciples to go into all the world, making disciples in all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything he has commanded. And to remember, that He would be with them always. Praying to Him keeps us connected to Him.

The followers of Jesus Christ had already been meeting in homes to share the miraculous actions that they witnessed Jesus doing. So, now they would be sharing all they had learned from Him—the miracles, the lessons from the parables—which are short stories that people can relate to in order to get the point He was making. And more importantly, the Good News of His Resurrection.

In these meetings, tithing and offerings became a part of the gatherings to continue the efforts Jesus talked about to help people in need. He kept things simple. The Bible doesn’t say he wore fine, rich clothes, or lived in a fabulous home. He spent His life serving people, physically, mentally, and spiritually. He regarded people’s needs over His own. His life and His teachings always point to God, His Father. We have an example to go by. We should always strive to be more like Him. Learn more about this way of life by attending a church whose sermon teaches the words of the Bible.

Have a blessed week and continue to bless others.