Crowd Connections

Welcome to Faith Connections Friday!

There is something special about gathering with others to worship God and receiving inspiration for daily living. Attending events such as Women of Faith, Women of Joy, Christian conferences, and church services that are led by godly speakers and musical leaders with likeminded people worshipping together ignites encouragement and support.

The Bible records several instances in which people connected corporately for worship through the teaching of Scripture, prayer, and (most likely) singing.

In the Old Testament, people gathered in Jerusalem for the dedication of the temple (1 Kings 8). They had a place in which they could meet for corporate worship.

The New Testament records the ways Jesus connected with crowds. He connected with the disciples as He explained the Scriptures (Luke 24:13-34). He connected with the people as He creatively delivered the Sermon on the Mount to the unique audience (Matthew 5, 6, and 7).

In one of the Apostle Paul’s journeys, he lived and ministered in the midst of a Greek culture where the people worshipped multiple gods. Paul connected with the crowds at Mars Hill (Acts 17:16-34). There, he addressed the people about their altar to the unknown god and explained the connection to the only true God.

Pentecost is a festival celebrated fifty days after Passover. People would travel for miles to gather for this festival. After the celebration of Pentecost after Jesus died, resurrected, and ascended into heaven, the Holy Spirit came as confirmation of God’s presence with the people. It was also the time that the people miraculously heard the gospel in their native language (Acts 2:1-4).

The final gathering of people connecting is in heaven. People from every nation and tribe will worship God for eternity (Revelation 7:9-17)!

Faith Connections Challenge: The writer of Hebrews emphasizes the importance of believers gathering regularly for encouragement and support (Hebrews 10:24-25). The benefits of meeting with believers are numerous. If you do not attend church, please give it a try. You will be blessed. Plus, you will learn more about these and other examples recorded in the Bible.