There’s a new kind of church budding in your neighborhood. It may meet in offices, restaurants, recreation halls, parks, and homes. It’s called a house church, or a simple church! In this time of mega-churches, it’s on the other end of the spectrum.
Though it sounds new, the fact is that house churches are as old as the book of Acts. In the New Testament, Christian believers’ fellowshipped together, learned together and prayed together!
Acts 2:46 “And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,”
Acts 20:20 “And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have showed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house,”
Acts 12:12 “And when he (Paul) had considered the thing (his escape from prison) he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.”
There is an intimacy about coming together to worship God in a small group. Everyone has an opportunity to participate. Guests not only enjoy the hospitality of a home setting, but they will experience, first-hand, the message of the Gospel; which is the good news of Jesus Christ and His love! (John 13:35)
In a house church, members can mature in the Lord and use their gifts, not only in the church but out in the workplace and community. In this kind of setting, no one is left out. Meaningful relationships can be established as members really get to know one another, not just say “hello” once a week.
