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CHRISTIAN
PACKET
TO HELP OUR
BROTHERS AND SISTERS TRANSITION EASIER AND USE
THEIR GOD-GRANTED
"FREEDOM IN CHRIST"
FOR useful suggestions and items to put your Christian Freedom to work,
Friends, the following should prove very handy for you. As you read here note in particular that you
and anyone who wants a local fellowship require no further authorization beyond that of God's Holy Spirit prompting
your heart and mind to invite others to meet with you to fellowship in Christ with Bible readings, kind words and heart-felt
hands-on acts of kindness. Freely take the lead in being a servant to others, especially those most in need.
CONTENTS HERE ARE
1. Certificates Of
Appointment Or Ordination (Forms A:Direct & B:Group)
2. Charter Form
3. Christian Invitation
4.
Statement Of Beliefs
5. Helpful Suggestions (Main section regarding fellowships)
Introduction;
Elders;
Structuring;
Meetings;
Growth And Joyful Witness;
Names Of Groups;
Acts Of Kindness;
Good Association;
Preaching;
Disciple-making;
Reviving
Others Spiritually;
Bible Versions;
Orderliness
For Hearing, Learning And Enjoying;
Respecting One Another;
Teachings That Are Not Biblical;
Last Note
6. Prayers At A Burial Site
7. Baptism
Prayer
8. Marriage Ceremony
9. Last Supper Memorial
10. Bedtime Prayer
11. Common Table Or Meal
Prayers
12. The Lord's Prayer (Our Father Prayer) 1A. DIRECT CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT OR
ORDINATION
If you were, for example, ever baptised
as a Jehovah's Witnesses, then you were also appointed or ordained to the ministry at that time by the JW hierarchy and
would also, for example, have preached at doors, taught Bible Studies etc, all acceptable as valid proofs toward
qualification as a minister in association with the fellowship of Christian Witnesses. So, provided you wish to now
be known not as a JW minister but a minister in association with Christians in the Fellowship of Christian Witnesses, and
provided too that you are indeed reputable, then you are welcome consider yourself such at once, your appointment not
from the founder of the fellowship but direct from and on behalf of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. If you
wish for or need one, a sample form is provided below that you can print and use. To the extent that
you stay focused on hands-on CHRISTIAN LOVE for the greater happiness of others instead of
straying off into Armageddon fears, divisive politics and the like, then you remain a Christian servant or minister, a description
of you not a title or position of power.
Sincerely and as another fellow servant in Christ and following
Christ alone as
God's MOST Faithful and Discreet (Wise and Loyal) Slave ever,
Joe
J. Mason ("Joe") Emerson
CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT OR ORDINATION
This is to confirm that ______________________________, a resident of ______________________, on this date
which is __________________ is recognized by our Fellowship of Christian Witnesses as a Ministering Elder, in good-standing
with us insofar as s/he is known to be a Christian and as such is holding full rights as also already appointed or ordained
by Holy Spirit and under such laws of the land as exist wherever s/he may be or go to in order to be serving others in the
loving and merciful way of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Said services
or ministry includes but is not limited to, for example, the teaching, disciple-making and baptizing of new Christians
as granted under protection of documents in various lands such as the U.S. Constitution and the Charter of Canada (Mt
28:18-20); the planting, nurturing and growing of churches in homes or elsewhere; the conducting of weddings and funerals,
the dedicating of youths; observing of the memorial of the Last Supper or Lord’s Evening Meal, the appointing
or ordaining of others as elders believed scripturally qualified.
It
is recognized that for official state, province or federal legal benefits, standings etc, such as for example may deal with
taxes etc, said minister may likely also need to consult with appropriate, pertinent legal authorities for such further approvals.
(Ro 13:1) Said minister’s relationship to our Fellowship is that of autonomy and we hold in
common as the only overall Leader, the Most Faithful and Discreet Slave of God who is over all Christians being God’s
Son, to wit Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Term is for so long as s/he keeps to a Godly life.
For
reference, our Christian Fellowship began September 20, 2005 via the internet, based initially in the home of J. Mason
(“Joe”) Emerson located at 9662 Wedd in Overland Park, Kansas 66212; phone number 913 492-1564.
There were nearly 2,000 associates signed in as indicated by emails registered August 1, 2009, for http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChristianWitnesses/ which included the following description:
“WELCOME TO FELLOWSHIP; SPARKING HAPPINESS! Our
fellowship offers joy regardless of different beliefs (Ga 5:22), and Christian Witnesses' own beliefs are freedom to differ
united by love (Ro 14:1-5; Co 3:14); resurrection to heaven or earth; inviting friendly people to home Bible readings (Mt
28:19, Ro 16:1), praying, sharing meals, helping the needy (Ga 2:10); two or more can select elders (1Tim 3; Ac 6:5) but Christ
himself is our only top Leader. (Mt 23:10; 24:45)”
Please address questions to me if you should have the need.
Sincerely In Affirmation Of What God's Spirit Already Shows,
J.
Mason Emerson (“Joe”) J. Mason Emerson (“Joe”) A Fellow Servant In Christ jmasonemerson@yahoo.com
1B. CERTIFICATE OF APPOINTMENT OR ORDINATION
FROM A LOCAL GROUP We the undersigned certify that upon recommendation by believers called
forth in Christian service at the location(s) noted as follows ______________________________________, and who have had
full and sufficient opportunity to confirm the Christian reputation and experiences shown by ___________________, have found
that this person is a friend in Christ, in Christian ministry and fellowship and therefore is approved of and appointed
(ordained) by us as a Christian minister as also in line with the Constitution of the United States of America
and in documents of similar standing in many other nations and lands. (Ro 13:1, 16:1)
So, as the afore-said
needs able to legally solemnize marriages, conduct baptisms, burials, visiting the sick and afflicted at hospitals, the appointment
or ordination of others as ministers and helpers (deacons or ministerial servants etc) or group committees for charitable
causes and deeds of mercy, and to conduct other official forms of ministry and worship, etc, We do solemnly and publicly appoint
or ordain as Minister said person upon this day ____________ during the month of ___________ in the year ______.
Name and Address of person appointed (ordained) at time of the appointment or ordination:
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Name(s) of Witnesses and Date(s) of Signing.*
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
* In many places at least two persons may have to sign this document, and three is even better.
It is good to also keep a smaller copy of the certificate to carry in your purse or wallet to also serve as proof
of appointment/ordination and a handy identification card for example to show if ever questioned for any reason. For
example make at least one photocopy of this document reduced in size for keeping with you. For any and all further official
clarifications you can contact the appropriate governmental office(s) in your land(s) or nation(s), that being,
in the United States, an official at your local county seat, or else an attorney of choice. 4. CHRISTIAN INVITATION Hi, there! You are invited
to attend informal, fun Bible readings with us. Come dressed in plain old everyday clothing. Christian Witnesses is
a fellowship not obligating others to change beliefs although our own beliefs are freedom to differ united by love (Ro 14:1-5;
Co 3:14); resurrection to heaven or on Earth made paradise; inviting to read Bibles in a home (Mt28:19,Ro16:1), pray, enjoy
a meal, help the needy (Ga 2:10); 2 or more can pick or vote elders (1Tim 3;Ac 6:5) but Christ is our only top Leader. (Mt
23:10) As do most all Protestants and Catholics we also enjoy unity as Christians in agreeing with the Apostles'
statement first distributed about 50 years after the last apostle which in modern English says
"I believe
in God Almighty the Father who created all things. I believe in His only born Son, the Lord who is Jesus Christ. Christ
was born of the virgin Mary after conceived by Holy Spirit. Christ suffered on a cross at the hands of Pontius Pilate. He
was buried and dead three days then resurrected to heaven. Christ now sits on the right hand of the Father, God Almighty.
From there He shall judge the living and the dead. I believe in Christianity in the universal broad sense. I believe
in trying to be like those who have been saints. I believe in Holy Spirit, communion (spiritual fellowship) with other Christians,
seeking forgiveness of sins, resurrection and eternal life. Yes, I agree to these things! (or: Amen.)"
As
also unites most all Protestants as well as Catholics we believe that Romans 1:20 speaks of Godship or godhead in reference
to God Almighty the Father, Jesus Christ the Son of God, and Holy Spirit. The three are united in the state of
absolute perfect holiness held only by the Divine, that is God, in a state of existence, godship or godhead that is eternal.
The three are different yet one in state of divineness and substance of holiness.
Where we differ some in views
about the Christian Bible we do not shun or act unkindly but encourage each other to read and continue reading the Bible so
that God's Spirit will inform us all better not only as to knowledge but loving Christ-like conduct. To read the
Weekly Bible Reader which includes helpful Bible readings see http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChristianWitnesses and to help you develop a local Bible reading group in your own area you can make and hand out copies of this invitation
to still others along with a place and time at the end here for them to join with you in informal friendly fellowship, for
example reading part of a Bible chapter, eating, visiting, doing acts of kindness together etc.
Until a local
body of two or more Christian believers form to meet regularly, our contact information is as follows:
http://www.christianwitnesses.com/
and/or
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChristianWitnesses
On this month, day and year, __________________, we who have signed below do make known that we are a fellowship
of Christians sharing beliefs and the mission of worshipping and working together in love, joy, and other fruits of God's
Holy Spirit in order to help others as Jesus Christ did and still does. We have chosen to call our local
Christian group ___________________________________________. May God Almighty direct us in this and bless
our service to one another and others; as chartering members we are the following persons:
Name:
Date:
_____________________________________________________ ________________________________
_____________________________________________________ ________________________________
3. SAMPLE STATEMENT OF BELIEFS:
THE FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN WITNESSES is a fellowship not obligating others to change beliefs although Christian
Witnesses' own beliefs are freedom to differ united by love (Ro 14:1-5; Co 3:14); resurrection to heaven or on Earth made
paradise; inviting to read Bibles in a home (Mt28:19,Ro16:1), pray, enjoy a meal, help the needy (Ga 2:10); 2 or more can
pick or vote to appoint elders to serve as they feel best (1Tim 3;Ac 6:5) but Christ is our only top Leader. (Mt 23:10)
As do most all Protestants and Catholics we also enjoy unity as Christians in agreeing with the Apostles' statement first
distributed about 50 years after the last apostle which in modern English says
"I believe in God Almighty
the Father who created all things. I believe in His only born Son, the Lord who is Jesus Christ. Christ was born of
the virgin Mary after conceived by Holy Spirit. Christ suffered on a cross at the hands of Pontius Pilate. He was buried and
dead three days then resurrected to heaven. Christ now sits on the right hand of the Father, God Almighty. From there
He shall judge the living and the dead. I believe in Christianity in the universal broad sense. I believe in trying
to be like those who have been saints. I believe in Holy Spirit, communion (spiritual fellowship) with other Christians, seeking
forgiveness of sins, resurrection and eternal life. Yes, I agree to these things! (or: Amen.)"
Those
who believe as stated above, although imperfect as all are, are in good standing in the fellowship, and all who serve any
group of two or more Christians in a Bible reading or study group while recognized as in good repute are such a group's
servants or ministers. For ordination to officially marry people etc, a minister in most lands needs a signed and dated
statement by two or more fellow Christians who declare the person their minister.
Local Contact Information such
as email/phone/address:
BIBLE VERSIONS
Any reputable Christian translation of the Bible is fine.
For example some have used the New American Standard Version (NASV), the New International Version (NIV), the Revised King
James etc. It would not be as beneficial to use a paraphrase of the Bible in place of a precise translation.
Remember that the Bible says that it itself is from God, a perfect teacher able to train and discipline us.
(2 Timothy 3:16) Although Christians are free to offer testimonials, talks or sermons, counsel etc, why not read the
Bible regularly at meeting and to oneself and let it itself be our Great Teacher for staying on the road to life.
INTRODUCTION
Although this was written because it is short and therefore handy for rapid reference,
it is to always be remembered that the Bible is the only one true manual for Christians.
When something
is not answered here, then, definitely look for answers in the Bible. One can also normally consult helpful Christian
friends, wisdom being in the multitude of counselors so long as they too are wise and truthful (Pr 11:14) rather than just
tickling our ears. (2 Tim 4:3)
So this is designed to be a generally very handy manual which offers suggestions
not rules or regulations; and which stresses that the one over-riding principle greater than anything written here is the
principle of showing Christian love. (1 Pe 4:8; Col 3:14)
ELDERS
Note that in any genuine Christian fellowship or church any older Christian man or
woman of reputable, character who is serving or ministering to the needs of a group of two or more Christians is by factual
description, not by an appointed title or formal paper saying so, already a de facto Christian elder. (1Tim 3; Ac 6:5) The Bible verb "cheirotoneo" is used in telling of earliest Christians deciding who their servants or elders
were. It is a word which reputable Bibles translate as to appoint by stretching out hands for voting or election.
(Acts 14:23, 2 Cor 8:19) Acts 6:5-6 notes that a whole group selected Stephen and others to minister to widows'
food needs. Campaigning for election was not done so there were no divisions over congregational
politics, but mature Christians simply considered if other Christians met the descriptions Paul gave at 1 Timothy 3 which
says for example designated servants must be helpful and free of scandal. Being a servant or elder (older servant) was
not a position of power to boss others but acknowledgement that you were friendly and reputably doing fine works rather than
just telling others to do so. Some modern groups forbid and call such voting "misguided democracy"
as it counters their ideal of "theocratic order," and often use Bibles misrendering cheiretonoeo as "appointed"
top-down rather than "voted on" from bottom-up. They say it causes divisive "campaigning" although
such campaigning rarely goes on. However, in doing so such groups are not actually showing correct
knowledge of the scriptures but trying to justify their efforts to centralize, control power and dominate. Paul and other apostles may have appointed or had a helper like Timothy appoint but after a group had been thus jumpstarted,
they moved on and the local Christians were left to make their own decisions locally. There was also
freedom to vary in how decisions were made. For example, the apostles drew lots to decide who replaced Judas. (Acts
1:26) Similarly in the Old Testament priests sometimes prayed then cast lots called Urim and Thumim for direction from
God. (Ex 28:30, Ez 2:63) At Hebrews 13:17 Paul says to "obey" ("peitho" in Koine
or New Testament Greek) and submit to those taking the lead, but the Greek word peitho means obey due to having been persuaded
to do so. Similarly, those who took the lead among groups of Christians were to have positive traits and conduct such
as be well-balanced, temperate, reasonable and reputable. They were not to have negative traits or conduct such as be
overbearing, power-hungry, dictatorial, harsh, violent, wild, drunkards, dishonest, greedy, mere talkers, or lazy. (Matthew
20:25-28, Lu 22:25-27, 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1) In short, Christian elders were, and today too need to continue
to be respected for guiding those who might otherwise be lost, being far more like caring shepherds or persons who had a great
deal of personal loving interest, not like some stoney-faced board members for an impersonal or callous business. Paul
in 1 Thessalonians 5 notes:
12 Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over
you in the Lord and who admonish you. 13 Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with
each other. 14 And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
16 Be joyful always; 17pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in
Christ Jesus. 19 Do not put out the Spirit's fire; 20 do not treat prophecies with contempt. 21 Test everything.
Hold on to the good. 22 Avoid every kind of evil. 23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and
through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls
you is faithful and he will do it.
STRUCTURING
It is usual that groups of Christians, at least in lands without undue great persecution
or tribulation, will decide when it is best or in line with governmental requirements that they formalize who such ministering,
serving friends are by seeking recognition from governmental entities such as a state or national government. Elsewhere
in this packet are sample forms for that although the governments themselves may have specific forms of their own that must
be filled out, kept and referred to.
The Bible clearly says that freed people, slave, males and females, all are
as one in Christ. (Galatians 3:28, Acts 10:34) However, in some lands (e.g. in 2008 in Afghanistan and the Sudan)
it may not be legal or safe for a woman to be thus formally acknowledged as a minister, so each group is free to handle the
situation as it knows or feels best.
There is no central headquarters or central group or individual dictating
or making important decisions for every group of Christians, including not for this which is a Christian fellowship.
Only Christ is over all such groups and each individual Christian. However, the groups are free to and encouraged to,
where beneficial, associate and cooperate on a voluntary basis.
This is a bottom-up type of structuring which has,
for hundreds of years been common to many Protestant groups such as Baptists and Methodists, in contrast to the top-to-bottom
type of structuring of, for example, Roman Catholicism and the Watchtower Society over Jehovah's Witnesses.
It is a structuring that provides a great amount of Christian freedom while also requiring much responsibility on
the part of those taking the lead in ministering to fellow Christians. It provides local autonomy or local-governance.
To make matters more clear, in the secular world of governments, the structuring is comparable to that of federated democracies
or republics in contrast to that of dictatorships.
The Bible shows that God blessed ancient Israel's cooperative
tribes with much autonomy and freedom for hundreds of years. When needed they came together and men like Samson and
women like Deborah led them in defeating the Philistines and other foes.
When the tribes of Israel unwisely decided
they wanted to have a king over them all as did the surrounding nations, God said they had actually rejected Himself, and
they would suffer severe loss of freedom because their human kings would be tyrannical. (Please read 1 Samuel 8:7-18) And,
of course, that happened.
Thus with our own modern groups we too must be careful. Sometimes groups go for
years enjoying Christian freedom then someone gets the bright idea that things can get done faster and "more efficiently"
by appointing a formal board or body of directors formally governing over them all. Remember and avoid that.
No servant is greater than his master. (John 15:20) Christ himself is the only leader over all Christians (Mt
23:8), the very most "faithful and discreet slave" of God. (Mt 24:45)
MEETINGS
Paul says it is good to meet and spark one another to fine works but doesn't say or command as to how often.
(He 10:24-25) Most would say once a week on a Sunday or at least twice a month, at least so in lands where there is
no great tribulation or persecution going on such as has happened on an off to Christian for some two thousand years now and
continues even in some mostly parts of Asia and Africa.
Groups may begin by meeting in someone's home as was common in the time of Paul. See for example Acts 2:34;
5:42, 12:12, 16:14-15, 31-34, 40; 20:7-12; 1 Cor. 1:11, 16:19, Rom 16:1-3, 3-5, Philemon 2, Col 4:15)
Or they may
meet in a rented meeting room such as at a hotel, in a community center, a restaurant etc. However, meetings can
be anywhere. Christians have met alongside lakes or seas such as the Sea Of Galilee, in forests, in caves, in moving
vehicles (e.g. Phillip in the chariot) etc. Groups without a formal church building are every bit as much a church are
those who purchase or receive the gift of a building. A church is not just a building but a body of Christians
called out of the world to serve for Christ as a healing of the nations, teaching and making new disciples, helping the needy
etc.
Groups are free to vary but some common group
activities are praying together, singing songs, reading part of a chapter in a book of the Bible, invitating one or more to
give an upbuilding or informative testimonial or impromptu talk, enjoying a simple fellowshipping meal (e.g. cookies and milk;
sandwiches and ice water, warm bean soup), chatting and visiting together, possibly hosting some wholesome games for the young
people, holding a weekly or at least a once a year formal memorial of the Last Supper (aka communion, Eucharist) as a separate
event or if weekly then possibly as part of the fellowshipping meal, remembrance of what Christ has done for us each time
we meet, laying and implementing plans for helping the needy such as collecting money or articles of clothing etc, inviting
others to come forth into Christ etc.
There
are historical documents stating that Christians commemorated the Last Supper weekly, possibly at if not part of a common
love feast meal that also benefitted the needier, hungrier brothers and sisters among them. The main symbols at the
meal are a little wine with unleavened bread. Wine was a common clean drink preferred in Bible times, understandable
for that period of history, especially so since even today in Europe people commonly drink wine or beer at meals because water
is so often from ground sources that are polluted or too full of minerals.
If some prefer to drink no wine out
of reasons of conscience, help them. Perhaps they would instead take grape juice or some other drink, even water.
The same, also under the principle of love, would apply for unleavened bread. It might even be that for various
reasons something like plain water and regular bread might need to suffice, for example, if in a land where Christians
are persecuted and there is need, for the sake of lovingly guarding lives, to not call undue attention to oneself in
purchasing such things. Go by love in such cases, and you will still be in unity with Christ.
In early Christian times foot-washing was also sometimes observed.
For example an elder might bathe the feet of those whose feet were dirty and sweaty from walking in the dust as a matter
of showing Christian loving concern as an humble servant in Christ. Many modern church groups still practice foot washing
and on semi-regular or regular basis. Read more at John 13:1-15, 1 Tim 5:10, 1 Sa 25:41, Ge 18:4 etc. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foot_washing
It
could also be a matter of genuine health concern, and in any case today those groups deciding to have a group meal or communion
would find it good to at least encourage those present to wash their hands, all the more so during times of flu or other diseases.
Earliest Christians also greeted each other with
a "holy kiss," however, some two thousand years have passed. A modern equivalent would be a short handshake,
brief peck on the cheek, or in the case of someone missed for a long time possibly a sincere hug. Such things, though,
are dependent upon the context of cultures and the need to not stumble or offend. If you may find this subject interesting
read for example http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_kiss , Rom 16:16, 1 Cor 16:20, II Cor 13:12, 1 Thes 5:26, 1 Pet 5:14)
GROWTH
AND JOYFUL WITNESS
Christian groups tend to grow and be added to so long
as they are relatively small and can experience better and more frequently the powerful joy of true love, but after they
have become too large for a meeting place, especially if it's a single room in a regular house (house-church), then they
may tend to stagnate, implode or even die out.
Therefore, it is good for those taking the lead as ministering elders to from early on
remind, indeed encourage those in any given group each time of gathering or at least from time to time to feel free to
form new groups. Groups last and grow because they receive the healing oil of love, so remind and encourage those servants
going forth to form new groups to be quick to apply that oil liberally.
In fact some groups have found great success
when reminding all who are in attendance near the end of each meeting to look for others to invite to attend the next meeting
and to consider forming a group of their own. Growth is good, natural and necessary. Neither fear mentioning the
need for it, nor feel that having different ones to go and begin new groups will forever damage morale. Initially there
is some sorrow, but later there is great joy, including when there are occasional reunions.
The size of groups can be
as small as two or three Christians. (Matthew 18:20) The Bible gives no upper limit as to how many can meet. That
is a local decision and those meeting would want to consider physical space, ability to get around to show Christian love
to the others etc. Most people think of a modern Western home as best accommodating no more than twelve to at most twenty,
but, yet again, there is no rule about such things. Beyond the most essential element which is Love, what else causes Christian
growth? The following scriptures are instructive:
Acts 6:2 So the Twelve gathered
all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order
to wait on tables. 3 Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit
and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4 and will give our attention to prayer
and the ministry of the word."
5 This proposal pleased the whole
group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and
Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. 6 They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed
and laid their hands on them. 7 So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in
Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
So Acts 2:2-7 shows that
growth can come from helping needy, hungry brothers and sisters in ways that are fair and regular. Christ also
literally fed bread and fish to the hungry, and we are to follow his example closely.
Acts 5:14-16 reveals growth
because of sick people being healed by Christians. So groups that help sick people become healthier also grow.
For example a group might help its members get discounts on vitamins, remind, encourage and assist members to get flu shots,
etc. Christ took a hands-on approach to healing. The Bible often mentions items of diet etc.
Acts 2 says: 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of
bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44
All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone
as he had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate
together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their
number daily those who were being saved.
Thus we see the early Christians grew enjoying
fellowship with at least a basic meal and prayer, selling things to help the needy. Simlarly a modern group may wish
to consider projects to help the needy such as a yardsales, baked cake and cookie sales, car washes, etc
Resurrections such as when Peter resurrected Tabitha resulted in growth. (Acts 9:42) Today Christians do
not resurrect bodily but we can spiritually revive or resurrect, so occasional spiritual revivals are beneficial. If
a man who has been a life-long drunkard changes his life for the better, it is a good witness and conducive to growth from
those who see it.
Acts 17 says: 11Now the Bereans were of more noble character than
the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what
Paul said was true. 12 Many of the Jews believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.
This shows that encouraging people to regularly read the Bible itself and make comparisons
and contrasts with what is read there with what the group is actually like can lead to more insights, improvements
and growth.
Acts 11 teaches us: 19 Now those who had been scattered by the persecution
in connection with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, telling the message only to Jews. 20 Some of
them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about
the Lord Jesus. 21 The Lord's hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.
So preaching in new areas or among different language or cultural groups can also bring new growth.
Even when there is persecution, such times can be used for witnessing to others about God.
At the start of Acts 2 the apostles are gathered in Jerusalem during
the Festival called Pentecost. Foreigners who speak many languages are also in the city. Suddenly a stiff breeze
rushes in upon the apostles, and what looks like flames of fire appear upon their head. They instantly speak to foreigners
in their own languages. The foreigners are amazed. Peter tells them it is a sign from God as predicted from scriptures.
Many believe and some 3,000 are baptized.
So we see that it is good to know scriptures and current events, and be able to relate
those to each other. It is also good to either learn at least enough of other languages to communicate the basic beliefs
of Christians such as summarized in theApostles Creed, or at least find ways to communicate about spiritual matters in other
languages such as by translations of Bible scriptures.
 Farther below are more in-detail suggestions and useful forms or documents
for starting and maintaining real-world (non-internet web) fellowships of ex-JWs and other friends. However, here is
the basic idea.
You invite friendly seeming people to regularly gather in a home (or other location)
following your invitation to do so at that place as well at a time that you set for doing so. Part of a book
in any reputable translation of the Bible is read while all in attendance listen and each is encouraged to try
to make some kind of personal application.
Include prayers, simple inexpensive meal (e.g. soup with finger
sandwiches; cookies and ice-cream), some singing, perhaps a Bible or fun game for youngsters, visiting, planning for Christian
activities such as collecting and getting blankets to the homeless, getting donated food to the hungry, helping the elderly
clean up lawns etc, assisting widows, orphans, the infirm and ailing, alien residents isolated due to cultural barriers and
languages etc.
Some people like to offer teachings or insights on life's hard knocks and the value of
Christianity. Invite those who attend to give some kind of testimonials or spiritual experiences etc if they wish.
Interactivity and getting the group involved in positive Christian activities is great. Encourage all who want to to
take the lead in areas where they have God-given talents and abilities.
Who's the preacher of such
a newly formed Bible fellowship group? The Bible itself is, although if some present wish, as said, to give
a testimonial or short upbuilding talk, then they are welcome to do that, too. The Bible that is used may
be read by yourself, someone else, or by various persons taking a turn. Instead of reading an entire chapter, focus
on doing maybe 12 scriptures, long enough for people to think about and learn from but not so long as to lose the attention
of anyone or bore them.
How might you contact people? Among the following are some handy sample
"Invitation" forms. You might also try putting a piece of cardboard or posterboard in the back
of a car's windshield with some short message like "FOR NEW LOCAL CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: JMASONEMERSON@YAHOO.COM"
(using your own email though) or, say, "CHRISTIANWITNESSES.COM."
You could also try posting notes
on bulletinboards such as in supermarkets and laudromats, running a regular newspaper ad, use a yard sign, use a phone directory
listing, etc. Put a stack of leaflets (or tracts) upon a table in your house-church where all who wish to take and give
away some can easily do so. On each leaflet include a contact email for interested readers so that when a leaflet goes
to somebody new, that person also can start attending. In fact at each meeting ask those attending to try to invite
someone new in the coming week.
We are all Christians whether male or female, and whoever starts a group and lovingly
helps keep it going may be of either sex, though later on a group can decide if it wants to formally ordain or not, whom or
whom all to ordain, etc as it has an understanding about such matters from actual reading of the scriptures in actual context.
(See a handy form for ordaining farther below.) Also, farther along are some more suggestions about such matters.
A true fellowship doesn't compel the exact same beliefs on everything. The emphasis is not on doctrines,
although correct basic doctrines (see Hebrews 6:1) are important, but rather the emphasis is put upon the hands-on
showing of genuine love for one another, and a helping and comforting of those in genuine need. There is great Christian
freedom of thought and expression of views. More about these and other matters also appear farther
below.
NAMES OF GROUPS
A group can name itself however it wishes. By examining the start of each
book of the New Testament we see that group were often called "Christians at" followed by the name of a town in
which they met, for example, the Church, Congregation or Christians at Ephesus; the Church, Congregation or Christians in
Corinth. The Christians in Berea were simply called the Bereans. Again, though, there is no rule about such things.
If a group wants to call itself the Thomas Family House-Church or some other name, that's fine.
The one and
only overall name of Christians is simply "Christians." Acts 11:26 says Christians were first called by the
name at Antioch. This does not mean that extra names for branches of the faith or for various locally meeting groups
are wrong. It does mean that a Christian is a Christian.
ACTS OF KINDNESS
We are saved by God's grace not by works, (Ephesians 2:8-9) not by
seemingly powerful works or mighty miracles (Matthew 7:22), and yet works of kindness are natural for all true Christians,
much and often encouraged in the Bible. Yes, words in and of themselves can be loving too, but Christian actions that
are loving do indeed often speak far better than words.
For example, Christ and Paul spoke of things we
can do so as to show love. For example, we can have regular programs or mission activities to help out the elderly,
widows, orphans, the homeless, those poor not from laziness but for various common reasons such as being laid off from work;
also the blind, lame and otherwise impaired. Throw a Christian party and don't forget to invite them over.
Look around our communities. Can gang graffiti be painted over, litter picked up and removed? Such
activities are a great witness to God's glory and the depth to which He has reached in and inspired our hearts, minds
and hands.
Remember too, the "alien residents in the land," that is those who have immigrated and could
use with help. Some of us have a talent for learning and speaking other tongues, translating etc.
There are people in jails and prisons, sometimes put there unjustly, at other times rightly so but now repentant.
Lions can lie down with lambs when they too become as lambs from learning to look up to and follow the greatest of Lambs,
Jesus Christ.
Make sure that your meetings are in agreement with the "fruits of God's Holy Spirit."
(Galatians 5:22) For example in addition to love provide the fruitage of JOY. Hold a Christian "love feast."
Have plenty of fun activities for the kids. Yes, they need to learn some scriptures, but they also need to experience
the joys of being children.
GOOD ASSOCIATION
True, Christian elders can and in
fact need to suggest to younger ones who is and who isn't good association since "bad association spoils
useful habits." (1 Corinthians 15:33) However, try extra hard not to be so quick to judge or to unduly judge
others, for even as we judge God will judge us too. (Matthew 7:1)
The book of James warns in particular that we
not go so far as to set up formal judging. Therefore formal "judicial committees," whether by that or some
other name, are not Christian. Christ says lay bear a matter between just yourself and someone who's believed to
have done wrong and then if he won't listen get two or three others to go with you to the perceived wrongdoer. (James
4:12; 5:9)
We obviously need to shun the world in the sense of the world of wickedness. (James 4:4)
To imagine that shunning the world meant most all of humankind in general is impossible and wrong. We are in bodies
of flesh upon the world and trying to isolate ourselves would keep us from being able to reach those needing helped.
Christ did not snub wrongdoers or sinners but went out of his way to invite and help those in need.
Some groups
practice formal shunning, calling it by terms such as disfellowshipping, expulsion, cutting off, excommunication etc.
We want to encourage a major wrongdoer to think what he's doing is okay but as 2 Corinthians 2:6 shows while any elder
can and indeed needs to warn people that someone is acting so harmfully toward himself and or others (that is sinning) that
his conduct shows he isn't actually Christian, yet the other Christians in a group do not necessarily have to go by what
the suggesting person says, regardless of who he is.
Paul says he told the Corinthians to avoid a major wrongdoer
and the "majority" of them did as he said, but this word "majority" means that a minority did not go by
his suggestion. The Bible does not say they were condemned in any way for not taking Paul's suggestion.
So formal harsh, rigid shunning and judicial committees are no-nos.
PREACHING
The most effective way to preach or witness to God's goodness is
the informal method in which happy Christians tell others of their joy by words or by actions of loving-kindness. We
may find ourselves witnessing by the fruitage of the lips when we informally run across someone at a store, a hotel, a park
etc.
It's true that the Bible does speak of preaching "house to house" in the sense of going from
a house in one location to a house in another location; but it never anywhere says Christians must knock on door after door
of house after house. In fact at Luke 10:7 Christ told the apostles to find lodging at a town and do "not move
around from house to house." Look it up in the Bible, please.
If at the lodging place, usually
someone's home, they found no interest in the Good News of the kingdom message on the resurrection hope from Christ, then
they were to knock the dust off their feet then travel on elsewhere. On finding interest, though, they were to heal
anyone sick via hands-on healing, apply soothing oil or prayer, and say God's kingdom is near!
This
is not to say that those who voluntarily wish to go up and down a street passing out free Christian leaflets or invitations
of attendance can't or shouldn't do so. Solomon said there's a place for everything. Individuals and
groups can make their own decisions on these things. If your land allows freedom of expression, you can use it in any
good and reputable way that God's Holy Spirit moves you to help people.
A group can make and have available
absolutely free (no cost) leaflets or "tracts" with Bible verses on them for visitors to take home with them, and
it can be mentioned or written on a sign by the leaflets that anyone is welcome to use them for witnessing either informally
or methodically, as Holy Spirit may move them.
Whether by word of mouth, our conduct or deeds of kindness, we are
to preach. 2 Timothy 4:5 says "do the work of an evangelizer."
 DISCIPLE-MAKING
Preaching can be for comforting and informing others etc.
Witnessing or disciple-making is for bringing new people into Christianity, and Christ says to do so for example at Matthew
28:19, 20.
The Bible tells of various conversions of people from paganism to Christianity. This happened
in a matter of minutes or within a day, so there never was and still isn't any scriptural reason for, for example, "six
month long Bible study" programs.
No, the basic Christian message is short and sweet, simple.
Not long after the apostle John died the earliest Christians wrote down the good news message in what has become known as
The Apostles Creed, which both Catholics and most all Protestants still go by and are thus united in the basics of Christianity.
In modern English it says:
"I believe in God Almighty the Father who created all things. I believe in His
only born Son, the Lord who is Jesus Christ. Christ was born of the virgin Mary after conceived by Holy Spirit. Christ
suffered on a cross at the hands of Pontius Pilate. He was buried and dead three days then resurrected to heaven. Christ
now sits on the right hand of the Father, God Almighty. From there He shall judge the living and the dead. I believe
in Christianity in the universal broad sense. I believe in trying to be like those who have been saints. I believe in Holy
Spirit, communion (spiritual fellowship) with other Christians, seeking forgiveness of sins, resurrection and eternal life.
Yes, I agree to these things! (or: Amen.)"
It's a message easy to print and pass along or simply to recall
by word of mouth. Similarly Paul tells us what the basic foundation beliefs are for Christians:
Hebrews 16:1
"Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation
of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, 2 instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the
resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment."
As Christians we are granted great freedom, though, to differ
in our views. (Romans 14) Our bond of UNITY is not same beliefs on everything, which is uniformity not true unity and
comes only from force, but rather the greatest bond is the light and gentle from Christ, that is, it is LOVE. (Matthew 28:19,
20)
REVIVING OTHERS SPIRITUALLY
In early Christian times the apostles had the gift
of literally healing by laying on the hands, and also sometimes resurrected the dead. Today we can lay on our hands
for healing in the sense of using our hands to help others, for example by freely mowing the lawns of elderly people, washing
their windows, or making and give away soup to the poor. We can spiritually resurrect or bring back to life those whose
lives have previously been wasted on illegal drugs and alcoholism.
Songs and music can do much to upbuild and revive.
Ephesians 5:19 says "speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your
heart to the Lord." Colossians 3:16 similarly says "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom;
teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with gladness in your hearts to the
Lord."
At II Chronicles 29:25-28 God gave specific instructions on the use of musical instruments.
Indeed there are countless verses noting songs of praise and instruments such as cymbals, drums or tambourines,
harps, lyres, trumpets, bells, gongs, flutes and some believe possibly even a kind of bagpipe. Songs of praises, that
is hymns, are also mentioned at Acts 16:25, Romans 15:9, Hebrews 2:12, 1 Corinthians 14:15, and James 5:13.
Although
musical instruments are not mentioned in the New Testament, there is absolutely no commandment against them. Furthermore,
Galatians 5:22 in citing the fruits of God's Holy Spirit says that "joy" is one of those good fruits. For
most Christians hymns with music bring more joy than hymns by themselves, so most Christians and groups of Christians will
naturally prefer accompanying music.
Nor does the Bible impose any rules against this musical instrument
or that, thus leaving it up to individual Christians and groups as to if piano, guitar, flutes etc are to be used or not.
Nor are there scriptures that say which kind of music is to be used, for example, if rock, rap, etc are or are not ever appropriate.
Scriptures do say, though, to be considerate so as not to be stumbling people out of Christianity. (1 John 2:10)
Scriptures also talk positively of dancing. For example Psalm 150:4 says to praise God with dancing.
1 Samuel 18:6 and 1 Chronicles 15:27-29 also speak of dancing. Again, the Bible offers no rules at all about dance styles
although it does speak of not stumbling others.
Going from one land and culture to another, there is natural variation
in such things. This is good, in fact Godly. We know that God did not make every flower the same color, shape
and fragrance. Indeed, if He had, the world would have been all the poorer for it. Western civilization includes
many great hymnal groups such as the spirituals of African-American tradition, heartfelt stirring Irish songs, lively French
songs, and wonderous German melodies.
BIBLE VERSIONS
Any reputable Christian translation of the Bible is fine.
For example some have used the New American Standard Version (NASV), the New International Version (NIV), the Revised King
James etc. It would not be as beneficial to use a paraphrase of the Bible in place of a precise translation.
Remember that the Bible says that it itself is from God, a perfect teacher able to train and discipline us.
(2 Timothy 3:16) Although Christians are free to offer testimonials, talks or sermons, counsel etc, why not read the
Bible regularly at meeting and to oneself and let it itself be our Great Teacher for staying on the road to life.
ORDERLINESS FOR HEARING, LEARNING AND ENJOYING
Paul also says that when groups
come together there is to be orderliness. Without it there would be no real learning for spiritual growth, and groups
would quickly fall apart.
For example Paul said that if someone wishes to speak in another tongue then that is
only okay if there is an interpreter but otherwise tell the person to wait until later and then it is to be done by turn,
for example, in Chinese or Spanish and then in English. The speaking in tongues may be literal understandable language,
or it may be some ecstatic shouting or incomprehensible utterances. Regardless, there needs to be orderliness as an
act of Christian kindness and consideration of others.
When earliest Christians began meeting it was the first
time for many if not most of the women to meet in any such sizeable group with other women and men. The men were
already much more used to meeting in similar groups.
The women thus only naturally wanted to speak with one another
when brought together and they did so even though someone like Paul was seeking to speak to or read scriptures to the group.
The men already knew from before to refrain from doing so.
Paul therefore wrote to not let the women's wanting
to speak be permitted for kind and practical reasons, that is he didn't do so to be talking down to women, but for all
to enjoy orderliness for effective, joyful learning and spiritual growth. Of course, his advice was and still
is good for any men who want to be too talkative during meetings just as it was and is for women. (1Co 14:33-4)
Yet the need for orderliness must be balanced by allowing for natural fun displays of love and joy (Galatians 5:22)
as when eating together or playing Bible games. Then our love and joy can flow freely like a river!
RESPECTING ONE ANOTHER
Revelations speaks of a Great Crowd in heaven (Revelation
19:1), not a Little Flock there. Read it, please. Indeed, Christians are called forth from all tongues, tribes
and lands. We are red, yellow, black, brown, white as diverse as the flowers of the fields that God has made.
God is not partial and nor should we be. (Act 10:34) As said, Paul pointed out that men and women are one in Christ.
(Galatians 3:28, Acts 10:34) In one scripture he encourages women to be teachers of what is good. (Titus 2:3)
He points out that Apollos was taught by Priscilla and Aquila. (Romans 18:26) In Romans 16 he says that Phoebe
was "a servant in Cenchrea," and that Priscilla with Aquila risked their lives for him. Many women went
to minister to Christ, were among the 120 receiving Holy Spirit (Acts 1:14) and prophesied (Acts 2:17-8). New Testament
notables include Lydia, Dorcas, and Martha. Old Testament notables include Esther, Ruth and Naomi, Martha, and Sarah.
As noted earlier, the book of Judges says Deborah was a Judge, meaning she served, leading decisively, as did other Judges
like Samson. Christ said he was in the midst of any group of two or more Christians, not just within
a group of two adult men. Piests in the Old Testament had all been adult men, but the prophet Joel then noted that
God's spirit would be poured out upon sons, daughters, women and men, (Joel 2:28, 29) then in Acts 2 Peter confirms
that this began among Christians at the festival of Pentecost in Jerusalem.
So today God welcomes
all Christians to make use of their different God-given talents and abilities such as teaching, telling instructive true life-stories
(testimonials), witnessing about Christ in different languages etc. Indeed, all good things are from God. Paul
gave much respect and responsibility to Timothy even though he was relatively young. Let us remember to be
extra considerate of the very elderly and infirm as well as the very very young. For example, at a get-together we can
let those who are aged go first in line or have them sit comfortably while we get them a plate of food. The same is
true for those in wheelchairs. If, for example, there are deaf among us, why not encourage someone to become a translator
to help them.
TEACHINGS THAT ARE NOT BIBLICAL
Any teachings that harm or kill people are anti-Christ.
For example teaching people to not get medical treatment or the wrong kind of treatment can cause pain, injury and death.
Luke was a "beloved" physician. Christ stated "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the
sick." (Col 4:14) As already shown, formal judging and severe shunning are in fact anti-scriptural and always beware
that they can cause mental depression and suicide, rip friends and families apart. Those practicing such things will
quote some scriptures that seem to back them up, downplay or dodge the scriptures that counter-balance and show they are wrong.
Predicting wrong, false dates for Christ to come back in person can ruin the lives, happiness and careers of people.
(Deu 18:22) In fact Christ said NOBODY knows the day or hour of the end except our Father in heaven. (Read Matthew 24:36)
The word "nobody" means just that: nobody. Some groups have repeatedly made such mispredictions.
Christ loved the children and so do all who are of natural affection, but beware that some evildoers such as pedophiles
and other abusers roam about, regardless of where you may attend, seeking to appear as angels of light while being wolves
in sheep's clothing. Let the authorities in law enforcement, the courts and legislators deal with them as Caesar's
sword. (Romans 13)
In fact as to child-molesters, Christ said those who harm such little ones would
be better off to have a millstone put about their necks then thrown into the sea. If part of any organization that enables,
shelters, hides, or empowers pedophiles, don't try to make any excuses for it, get out of it.
His exact
words are "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. 6 But if anyone causes one of these
little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be
drowned in the depths of the sea." (Matthew 18:5, 6)
Be sure that any group you attend or form does not do
any such things. They may be doing even worse things secretly in the background that you aren't aware of such as
Ritualistic Abuses. If in you are in one, then definitely get out of it. (Re 18:4, 5)
It cannot be
emphasized enough that a good, reputable Bible translation is needed. Some such translations have been the New International
Versions, the New American Standard Version, the New King James Version etc. Be awake to if a religious organization
has produced a version that many other people, especially those who know a lot about Bible translations, say are deficient.
Especially be alarmed if an organization that publishes such a version adds to or takes away words from the Bible. (Re 22:19)
LAST NOTE
The readers are again reminded that the Bible, not this publication,
is the only perfect teacher and guide for you. (2 Tim 3:16)
6. BURIAL SITE PRAYERS
 #1 A short burial prayer:
To God Almighty we commend the soul of ____.
In doing so we remember
that as Acts 24:15 says there will be a resurrection of the "just and unjust" or "the righteous and the unrighteous"
through the ransoming shed blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ashes to ashes and dust to dust, into the hands
of God we give our trust.
Amen
A burial prayer based on Psalm 23:
The
LORD is my shepherd so I will lack nothing. He makes me lie downin green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul. He leads me in the path of his righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, even though I
walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff comfort
me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil, and my cup runs
over. Surely Your loving-kindness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I dwell in the house of the
LORD forever. Amen.
A burial prayer for a child:
Christ once called his disciples
together and said of a little child who was with him, if you don't become like this little child you can't enter the
kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives
a little one like this one receives me too. Be careful to not despise one of the little ones for in heaven their angels
always behold the face of my Father. And so we can be certain that God has this child in the safe keeping of His love,
now and forever. Amen.
May the LORD GOD bless and keep the soul of this one whose body we now commit to burial.
May the LORD make His face shine upon this our loved one and be gracious unto him. May the LORD lift His face upon him,
grant him peace now and forever. Amen.
Dear Father in heaven, _____ wishes now to become a baptised Christian, acknowledges and repents of his/her sins, believes
in You, God Almighty the Father, who created all things. He also believes in Your only born Son, the Lord
who is Jesus Christ, believes that Christ was born of the virgin Mary after conceived by Holy Spirit, also that although
Christ was slain at the hands of Pontius Pilate, after being buried and dead three days Christ then was resurrected
to heaven.
She/He also believes that Christ now sits upon Your right hand, and from there He shall
judge the living and the dead. She/He believes in Christianity in the universal broad sense, and in trying to be
like those who have been saints. She/He believes in Holy Spirit, communion which is spiritual fellowship with other Christians,
seeking from Yourself the forgiveness of sins, resurrection and eternal life.
These things all being true, Dear
Father, we shall proceed to this baptism witnessed by Yourself from heaven, also by God and any and all onlooking
angels as well as human eyes.
I now baptize you on behalf of our Lord Jesus Christ, ____ , a person born again
this time as a Christian in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.
Some like to read the following Bible
scriptures before proceeding to the final part of the ceremony: First, we would note for the benefit of this couple and all who are gathered today what 1 Corinthians 13:8 says,
namely: Love never fails. But where there are
prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9
For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 11 When I was a child,
I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.
12 Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know
fully, even as I am fully known.
13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these
is love.
-- 1 Corinthians 13:8-13
Friends, we are gathered here to witness the marriage ceremony of ____ and ____. I now call for them to exchange
the wedding rings and join their hands.
Do the two of you agree to live loyally together through
good times and bad in holy matrimony and as witnessed in the clear sight of God with any onlooking angels as
well as the eyes of humans?
(We do.)
Now exchange rings as a symbol of your solemn
vows.
I pronounce you Man and Wife in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
You may now
kiss each other.
9. THE LORD'S SUPPER MEMORIAL (COMMUNION)
As based upon Luke 22:19-23, I Corinthians 11:24-26
Let us now bow our heads. Heavenly Father, we are grateful that we can come before Your throne because of the
ransom sacrifice of Your Son Jesus Christ which gives hope of the resurrection. As Christ says to do when
gathered we now will be partaking of a meal in memory of Christ's Last Supper, and we ask for your blessing.
Although we are all sinners, may none of us partake unworthily for example if we have sinned so as to grieve Your
Holy Spirit by harming one of the Little Ones. Again, thank You for being able to commune or fellowship since You gave
us Your Son Jesus Christ.
Amen. Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the good Lord my soul to keep;
And if I should die before I wake,
I pray the good Lord my soul will take;
Amen.
11. COMMON TABLE OR MEAL PRAYERS God is great, God is good.
Let us thank
him for our food.
By his hands, we are fed.
Let us thank him for our bread.
Amen.
The Lord is good to me
And so I thank the Lord
For giving things I need
For sun, rain and appleseed
The Lord is Good to me
Come, Lord Jesus, be our Guest; And bless
what you have bestowed.
Blessed be God who is our bread; may
all the world be clothed and fed."
12. THE LORD'S
PRAYER
Christ taught the disciples to pray the following at Matthew 6.
It is good to know and use anytime Christians gather:
9 "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,
10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us today our daily bread.
12 Forgive us our debts, as
we also have forgiven our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver
us from the evil one."
Amen. |
