Most congregations plan and conduct at least one or two Gospel meetings during the year. There are those who question the value of such efforts. In the minds of some they are a waste of time. How many times has it been said, “We don’t have Gospel meetings like we used to”?
It could be that some Gospel meetings have become nothing more than a tradition. We have them because we have always had them. Unless we understand the value and importance of such efforts, we will not have successful Gospel meetings. Why are Gospel meetings valuable to the work of the local congregation?
Gospel meetings are valuable in the:
Preaching of the Word of God
We must take advantage of the opportunities to make known the Will of God. The Word must be proclaimed. “Preach the word” (2 Tim. 4:2). “If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God” (1 Pet. 4:11). We must preach the Word and Gospel meetings provide such an opportunity.
Promoting of the Work of the Church
We have the obligation to “seek and save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). Our main business in the church is to be in the “soul-saving” business. Gospel meetings remind us of the great responsibility we have toward those (1) outside of Christ that need salvation (Rom. 1:16-17; 2 The. 1:7-9) and (2) in Christ members of the church who have become unfaithful, that need to be restored (Jam. 5:19-20).
Protecting the Welfare of the Congregation
God desires for His people to be united (John 17:20-21; 1 Cor. 1:10; Eph. 4:1-6; Psa. 133:1). Feuding, fighting, and fussing among the brethren is fatal to the spiritual welfare of any congregation. Gospel meetings encourage brethren to think about others and to work together. Gospel meetings edify us and strengthen us as we hear the Word proclaimed and labor together (1 Cor. 15:58).
Preventing of Wandering from the Lord
It is possible for the child of God to become unfaithful to the Lord (1 Cor. 10:12; Gal. 5:4; 6:1, 7-9; Heb. 3:12; Jam. 5:19-20, 1 Pet. 2:20-22). As we grow “in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Pet. 3:18), we are helping ourselves to remain faithful to the Lord. In 2 Peter 1:5-11, we learn that we must “add” and “abound” in the “Christian graces.” Why? “To make your calling and election sure; for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall” (1:10). Gospel meetings help to prevent unfaithfulness.
Proving of Our Well-Being
Gospel meetings help us as Christians to see where we are spiritually. It helps us to check up on our (1) Commitment, (2) Conviction, (3) Courage, and (4) Compassion. In Gospel meetings we demonstrate what is really important to us. Do we pray for our Gospel meetings (Col. 4:2; 1 The. 5:17)? Do we eagerly participate in the promoting of such efforts (1 Cor. 3:9)? When the Gospel meeting begins we will be present for every service (Heb. 10:24-25). Gospel meetings are a test of our faith and faithfulness.
Preparing for That Wonderful Place Called Heaven
It is God’s desire that we go to Heaven (1 Tim. 2:4). Heaven is a prepared place for those who have prepared themselves (John 14:1-3; Mat. 7:13-14, 21-23). Gospel meetings afford us the opportunity to think even more about Heaven (Col. 3:1-3). As we think about Heaven and hearing the Gospel of Christ being faithfully proclaimed, we are motivated to make sure we are preparing for Heaven according to God’s plan. God’s plan is the only way (John 14:6; Heb. 5:8-9; John 8:24; Luke 13:3; Mat. 10:32-33; Mark 16:16; Rev. 2:10). Preparing for Heaven is what this life is all about (Phi. 1:21; Ecc. 12:13).
How thankful we should be for Gospel meetings where the Truth is faithfully proclaimed and upheld. Gospel meetings are valuable. –Author Unknown
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