Recent discussions on the forum got me to thinking about this.
I was a bit bothered by the use of Matthew 18:20 as either an apologetic, or invocation.
"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." - Matthew 18:20 NIV
The problem being contextual. Not what Matthew 18:18-20 is about. And theologically speaking,
we are not required to gather with believers for Christ to be present with us.
There is however, an aspect to the gathering of believers that has to do with
the presence of the Holy Spirit in each individual having an effect on the spiritual atmosphere.
Not sure of the stated biblical theology/doctrine of that, but I certainly notice it in practice.
But rather than turn this topic into a heated discussion about biblical theology/doctrine,
I wanted to focus on the positive side of Invocation and Benediction.
And not just in the formal sense, but more as a mindset, or personal blessing.
Not just left to leadership to open or close a service.
[
I was a bit bothered by the use of Matthew 18:20 as either an apologetic, or invocation.
"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." - Matthew 18:20 NIV
The problem being contextual. Not what Matthew 18:18-20 is about. And theologically speaking,
we are not required to gather with believers for Christ to be present with us.
There is however, an aspect to the gathering of believers that has to do with
the presence of the Holy Spirit in each individual having an effect on the spiritual atmosphere.
Not sure of the stated biblical theology/doctrine of that, but I certainly notice it in practice.
But rather than turn this topic into a heated discussion about biblical theology/doctrine,
I wanted to focus on the positive side of Invocation and Benediction.
And not just in the formal sense, but more as a mindset, or personal blessing.
Not just left to leadership to open or close a service.
[
