Is the collection a part of the worship at the breaking of bread?

Is the collection a part of the worship at the breaking of bread?

The context of Hebrews 13:13-17," TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 13:13-17, including confessing "His name" (v. 15, JND), is the assembly (Matthew 18:20)." TARGET="_blank">Matthew 18:20). "To communicate" (verse 16) is the same word translated "a certain contribution for the poor saints" (Romans 15:26)" TARGET="_blank">Romans 15:26) and is closely related to "no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving" (Philippians 4:15)." TARGET="_blank">Philippians 4:15). Therefore, Hebrews 13" TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 13 links offering "the sacrifice of praise" (verse 15) and sacrifices of our finances (verse 16). Offering sacrifices is priestly and those who brought their sacrifices are called worshipers (Hebrews 10:1, 2)." TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 10:1, 2). Therefore when holy priests offer up spiritual sacrifices (1 Peter 2:5)," TARGET="_blank">1 Peter 2:5), they are worshiping. This is equally true of audible and inaudible expressions and of financial offerings.

D. Oliver
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My husband is not saved. How should I treat him?

How should a new believer deal with an unbelieving marriage partner?

Compromising the Lord’s claims helps neither partner. Obedience to the Lord is for our good always (Deuteronomy 6:24)." TARGET="_blank">Deuteronomy 6:24). Obedience and preference, however, are not the same. Attending the assembly’s meetings involves obedience (Hebrews 10:25)," TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 10:25), even if the believer is not yet in its fellowship . Attending a conference 200 miles away is preferable, but, if it causes marital conflict, it is optional. Not socializing with former friends in activities that are compromising to the Christian is obedience (1 Peter 4:4)." TARGET="_blank">1 Peter 4:4). Socializing with believers is preferable, but may be disobedience, not expressing becoming consideration.

Witnessing to the unbelieving partner is crucial (1 Corinthians 7:16)." TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 7:16). When the unbelieving partner understands the facts and implications of the gospel, the most effective witness may be living (and praying) without preaching (1 Peter 3:1)." TARGET="_blank">1 Peter 3:1).

A Christian should be an improved marriage partner in words and actions and, more importantly, in the relationship itself -the emotional "connection." The believer’s salvation means the couple cannot enjoy sharing spiritual fellowship, a most precious closeness; however, the believer’s new relationship with Christ teaches, models, and enables a closer marital relationship than was previously possible. The greatest challenge to a believer with an unbelieving partner is to learn, as a disciple of Christ, how to develop a more loving, self-sacrificing, considerate, secure, committed, transparent, and trusting relationship. This is what bonds a marriage and is truly satisfying to both marriage partners, whether believing or unbelieving. A believer may have to sadly accept the unbeliever’s choice to depart from the marriage (1 Corinthians 7:15)," TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 7:15), but applying Biblical principles makes this much less likely.

D. Oliver
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What can believers do for a believer who is the subject of damaging rumors?

What can believers do for a believer who is the subject of damaging rumors?

If the rumors are just passing stories that no one would take seriously, let them drift into nothingness. More harm than good might come from telling the person what others said. For example, if the person insisted on knowing who repeated the rumor, he would either be upset with you if you refused to tell him or upset with the person who told the rumor. You have become a talebearer who stirs up strife (Proverbs 26:20)." TARGET="_blank">Proverbs 26:20).

We should always ask for evidence to substantiate rumors about others, especially for persistent, harmful rumors. If supporting evidence is not available, make your disapproval clear. And never repeat damaging rumors (Titus 3:2;" TARGET="_blank">Titus 3:2; James 4:11)." TARGET="_blank">James 4:11). Wrongly damaging the reputation of others is serious (Proverbs 6:16-19)." TARGET="_blank">Proverbs 6:16-19).

Discussing the rumors in a friendly manner with the accused, without assuming the truthfulness of the rumors, would be a kindness, especially when accompanied by a sincere expression of concern that anyone would say such a thing. That would make it easier for the individual to admit that the rumor is true or partly true or else to affirm that it is totally false. Depending on its seriousness, you could even mention the supporting evidence you had been given. Every attempt should be made to contain the problem (Matthew 18:15)." TARGET="_blank">Matthew 18:15). If the rumor arose from a clear case of misunderstanding, don't give the wronged person a case against the source of the rumor, but volunteer to try to correct the misunderstanding yourself.

If the rumor appears likely to be true and involves issues of concern to the assembly, a believer is responsible to go to an overseer and kindly, humbly, confidentially, carefully inform him. If the believer did not inform the assembly's leadership, he would be responsible for wrongfully covering the sin (Acts 5:2, 8-10)." TARGET="_blank">Acts 5:2, 8-10). It is a mistaken kindness to support a believer in sinning against God.

When the overseers become aware of a possible problem, they are responsible to thoroughly investigate (Proverbs 25:2)," TARGET="_blank">Proverbs 25:2), visit the individual, and guide the assembly to act in keeping with the facts. The believer who passed on the information to the overseers has no further responsibility and must submit to their judgment (Hebrews 13:17)." TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 13:17).

D. Oliver
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Your First Visit

Welcome

The Gospel Hall is a carefully chosen name for the meeting place of a church who meets in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. The emphasis on the Bible's message, called the Gospel, gives the building its name because of what we do there: we preach the Bible.

Moment of Truth

People here have a common theme - each one has experienced a moment of truth with God that gives them confidence to face life, death and even eternity beyond. Check out some of the Personal Stories to see what we mean by this special moment of understanding called salvation. Each person has faced his/her own guilt before God regarding things done wrong, that is, our personal sin. This moment of salvation doesn't have to occur during a service at the Gospel Hall. In fact, many were saved while doing other things such as reading at home, or while trying to do homework, or even after going to a drug party, or while contemplating suicide while lying on the floor.

What kind of Church is the Gospel Hall?

It dificult to go to a church that you know nothing about. You probably have dozens of questions swirling around your mind such as:

Will the preacher rant and rave and shout strange things from the platform?
Are there secrets or rituals that only "the members" know about?
Of course they want me to donate money, right?
Is this church a political platform for "fixing America?"

First, you can be assured that the services here are done orderly and politely. See the Gospel Hall FAQs to read about the various types of meetings held in the Hall.

Second, the teachings you will hear are not motivated by politics or cult-like agendas. The primary goal of the services is to help people understand what the Bible says. You can get an idea of the services by listening to some sample messages in MP3 audio download format.

Oh, yes, the money. The policy at the Gospel Hall is that no collections are ever taken from visitors at any services. We believe if we can't afford to be offering the service ourselves, then we shouldn't be asking you to pay for it.

Our Roots

The history of the assemblies who meet in the Gospel Hall will show you that our mentors and teachers came from Great Britian during the early 1800's time of influence of the Plymouth Brethren.

Your Needs

We want you to know that we are dedicated to helping you with your needs wherever you are in life. While there is a lot to read on this website, the best way to discover the feel of a place is by spending time with its people. Once you do this, we're convinced that you will find everything that you're looking for and much, much more.

Your First Visit

We would love for you to join us for one of our services. You should...

Contact one of the churches listed in the directory. The phone number is probably a person's home phone or cell phone. They are expecting you to call and ask about the church. They probably will be willing to meet with you beforehand if you have questions.
Pick a Service. See the Gospel Hall FAQs to read about the various types of meetings held in the Hall.
Go to the Hall for the service.
After the service stay around and talk. Getting aquainted after the service can sometimes last longer than the service for some people!

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What ways does God communicate to us?

The following is a listof ways that God has used to communicate with us in the past. The Holy Scriptures are now completed and provide us with the entire revealed word of God. You should not expect to receive visions, dreams or prophets speaking to God today.

How God communicated His message in the past:

His secret things.
Amos 3:7" TARGET="_blank">Amos 3:7 Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.

At various times and in different ways.
Hebrews 1:1." TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 1:1.God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,

By an audible voice.
1 Samuel 3:4-14." TARGET="_blank">1 Samuel 3:4-14. And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.

By angels

Dan 8:15-26;" TARGET="_blank">Dan 8:15-26; …when I, even I Daniel, had seen the vision, and sought for the meaning, then, behold, there stood before me as the appearance of a man.

By dreams and visions.
Numbers 12:6;" TARGET="_blank">Numbers 12:6; If there be a prophet among you, I the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.

Men who were under the influence of the Holy Spirit while prophesying.
Luke 1:67;" TARGET="_blank">Luke 1:67; And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied…

Spoke in the name of the Lord.
James 5:10." TARGET="_blank">James 5:10.Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord,

Frequently spoke in parables and riddles.
2 Samuel 12:1-6;" TARGET="_blank">2 Samuel 12:1-6; And the LORD sent Nathan unto David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, There were two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor

Shad Sluiter

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What is the role of elders in assembly reception?

What is the role of elders in assembly reception?

The repeated expression, "them that have the rule over you" (Hebrews 13:7, 17, 24)" TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 13:7, 17, 24) is otherwise translated "your leaders" (JND) or "your guides" (AV margin). The assembly, as "house of God" (1 Timothy 3:15)," TARGET="_blank">1 Timothy 3:15), administers for God in receiving to and putting away from the assembly. In these and all spiritual matters, the elders guide the assembly. Their character and understanding of the Scriptures give the believers confidence that their guidance is godly and scriptural. As leaders, they need a basis for informed decisions (Proverbs 25:2" TARGET="_blank">Proverbs 25:2b) founded on the Word of God. By kind, personal conversations with new believers or with visitors who have been attending assembly meetings, they become acquainted with the spiritual qualities of these believers. These matters are confirmed by a united meeting of "the oversight" (1 Timothy 4:14," TARGET="_blank">1 Timothy 4:14, "presbytery"). Such men are not dictators ("lords," I Peter 5:3)," TARGET="_blank">I Peter 5:3), but they guide by counsel (Thayer). Especially at critical times, they inform the assembly of at least some of the facts and truths on which their decisions are based.

D. Oliver
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How did New Testament believers break bread?

How did New Testament believers break bread?

This question apparently arises from the difficulty of having thousands of believers in the Jerusalem assembly sharing from one loaf and one cup. We have the teaching in 1 Corinthians about what believers do in remembering the Lord and about the significance of what they do. The mechanics of how they distributed the cup and the loaf are not given. We are left to carry out the principles of Scripture in a way that most suitably displays all the truth of God. In the case of the cup and loaf, we are responsible to so act that we clearly display the significance of "breaking bread," as taught in chapters 10 and 11 of 1 Corinthians.

D. Oliver

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Is the Spirit of God equal to the Father and the Son?

Is the Spirit of God equal to the Father and the Son?

Called "the Lord, the Spirit" (2 Corinthians 3:18," TARGET="_blank">2 Corinthians 3:18, JND), lying to Him and to God are equivalent (Acts 5:3, 4)." TARGET="_blank">Acts 5:3, 4). He is equated with God in the creation (Genesis 1:2; 2:2)," TARGET="_blank">Genesis 1:2; 2:2), incarnation (Luke 1:35;" TARGET="_blank">Luke 1:35; Galatians 4:4)," TARGET="_blank">Galatians 4:4), anointing (Acts 10:38)," TARGET="_blank">Acts 10:38), miracles (Matthew 12:28;" TARGET="_blank">Matthew 12:28; Luke 11:20)," TARGET="_blank">Luke 11:20), crucifixion (Hebrews 9:14)," TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 9:14), resurrection (Acts 3:15;" TARGET="_blank">Acts 3:15; 1 Peter 3:18)," TARGET="_blank">1 Peter 3:18), saints' resurrection (Romans 8:11;" TARGET="_blank">Romans 8:11;1 Corinthians 15:38," TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 15:38, and operation of gifts (1 Corinthians 12:6, 11)." TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 12:6, 11).

The Lord equates the Spirit's deity with His own by saying, "another (of the same kind) Comforter" (John 14:16)." TARGET="_blank">John 14:16). In 1 Corinthians 12" TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 12-4-6 the Spirit, the Lord and God are parallel (see also Matthew 28:29;" TARGET="_blank">Matthew 28:29; 2 Corinthians 13:14;" TARGET="_blank">2 Corinthians 13:14; 1 Peter 1:2;" TARGET="_blank">1 Peter 1:2; Jude 21)." TARGET="_blank">Jude 21). hi the same chapter, He "wills" (verse 11), as does God Games 1:18). His omnipresence and God's are equivalent (Psalm 139:7)." TARGET="_blank">Psalm 139:7). He is omniscient (1 Corinthians 2:11)" TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 2:11) and omnipotent (Romans 8:11;" TARGET="_blank">Romans 8:11; Matthew 22:29)." TARGET="_blank">Matthew 22:29).

He wills (John 3:8)," TARGET="_blank">John 3:8), knows (1 Corinthians 2:11)," TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 2:11), acts (Acts 16:7)," TARGET="_blank">Acts 16:7), speaks (1 Timothy 4:1)," TARGET="_blank">1 Timothy 4:1), and feels (Ephesians 4:30)." TARGET="_blank">Ephesians 4:30). He is a distinct person, though equal with the Father and Son. When the Son stood at Jordan, the Spirit descended, and the Father spoke from heaven, this distinction was visible (Matthew 3:16, 17," TARGET="_blank">Matthew 3:16, 17, paralleling the Old Testament revelation in Isaiah 42:1)." TARGET="_blank">Isaiah 42:1).

D. Oliver

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Is it possible that the Lord

Is it possible that the Lord’s brothers were only half brothers?

The idea that Joseph had sons before he married Mary or that those referred to as His brothers were merely His close relatives does not satisfy all the statements of Scripture. The term "brothers" in the New Testament is clearly used to refer to those with common parentage (Matthew 20:20, 24)," TARGET="_blank">Matthew 20:20, 24), nationality (Acts 22:1)," TARGET="_blank">Acts 22:1), and spiritual life (Romans 1:13)." TARGET="_blank">Romans 1:13). There are no clear cases of its use for close family relationship apart from common parentage.

In addition, the references to the Lord’s sisters (Matthew 13:56;" TARGET="_blank">Matthew 13:56; Mark 6:3)" TARGET="_blank">Mark 6:3) must refer to those who shared a common parentage. In the New Testament, the word "sisters" is only used in that way or for those who are related spiritually - which are not cousins or half brothers..

Most conclusively, Psalm 69" TARGET="_blank">Psalm 69 is messianic (vv. 4, 9, 20, 21); "My mother’s children" (v. 8) reproached Him, "for neither did His brethren believe in Him" (John 7:5)." TARGET="_blank">John 7:5).

James, Joses, Simon, Judas, and His sisters were the children of both Mary and Joseph.

D. Oliver
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Can a Church use more than one cup and still show communion?

Some large assembly gatherings use more than one cup. Is this scriptural or should this practice change?

The significance of the "one cup" is that it is "the communion of the blood of Christ" (1 Corinthians 10:16)." TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 10:16). When we partake of it, we are professing that the one ground of our fellowship with God is the precious blood of Christ. The "one loaf" of 1 Corinthians 10" TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 10: is the emblem of the oneness of assembly fellowship. This is the greatest chapter in the New Testament dealing with the fellowship of an assembly. Verse 17 very likely means that the "one body" is the Corinthian assembly rather than the large aspect of the Body (Eph 1:22-23)." TARGET="_blank">Eph 1:22-23). In the three Gospel records of the institution of the supper and in the two passages in 1 Corinthians 10:16" TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 10:16 and 11:25, it is important that "cup" is singular. Individual cups can never be construed as being a "cup of ... the communion of the blood of Christ." In Acts 2:41" TARGET="_blank">Acts 2:41 and 4:4 as many as 3,000 and later 5,000 met together to break bread. I have never heard anyone explain how such a company could use only one cup in their remembrance of the Lord. "One cup" is most significant and we should maintain this principle to the best of our ability. When necessity demands that several cups are needed, we should not let this deteriorate into individual cups. It should still be "a cup of communion" or a common cup.

N. Crawford

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