The Corinthians used the
time of assembling (“when ye come together in the church” or
“congregation”
1 Cor.
11:17-22) to
satisfy their personal appetite. The thing done was out of place (“have
ye not houses to eat and to drink in?”) and their inconsideration for
others compounded the error. I think I have seen the same error
committed, repeatedly, in present day assemblies — with not a morsel of
food in sight.
“One is hungry, and
another is drunken.” Some say the word “drunken” does not necessarily
mean intoxicated but rather “having partaken”. In either case, it shows
inconsideration for a brother or sister in Christ, and this is my point.
Repeatedly I have stood at the back of a building. just before worship,
and have been able to “spot” those who are hungry for association and
attention — while inconsiderate brethren enjoy a last - minute social
visit, and then settle at one another’s side for worship. With the
closing “amen!” these brethren resume their visits with close friends,
and the “hungry” ones, no part of the “inner circle”, gather their
belongings and slip quietly and sadly away.
Some reply, “We are
assembled to worship God, not for social visits. These people should be
satisfied with the purely “Christian” fellowship.” Well, that is all
they are getting, and if they come again it would seem they find it
satisfying. I wonder how many of the “visiting” circle would continue to
come if they were given such limited personal reception. And, are we not
assuming that friendly conversation with these lonely ones must be of a
purely social nature? If we have so much in common IN CHRIST, is there
no place for conversation relative to spiritual matters?
Let us not deceive
ourselves. We are the ones who are feeding on personal and social
association. I am aware that all public gatherings have some social
aspects; and often the “separate” ones are poorly orientated to society
— they separate themselves and hurry from, the building, or huddle in a
corner with little to say. If we act selfishly, love only the lovely, we
will pass them by for social contacts more to our taste. Perhaps this
sort of selfishness caused the Corinthians to seek so—called social and
economic equals, and “take before other his own supper.” It may also
have moved James to write. “Have not the faith... with respect of
persons.”
(Read
Jas. 2:1-f)
When we gather to worship
God what better time could we find to
practice unselfish
love and regard for all the saints. Here is a new convert, in new and
different surroundings, embarrassed, uncertain, feeling alone. You may,
indirectly, save a soul from drifting and death by simply sitting next
to this person, showing genuine sympathy and concern, making him or her
feel truly a part of this church.
A formal handshake and “Welcome!” at the time of their baptism is NOT
enough.
“Finally, be ye all of one mind,
having compassion one of another; love as brethren, be pitiful, be
courteous. ..“ (1
Pet. 3: 8-f) Think awhile!
