And let us consider each other carefully for the purpose of sparking love and good deeds. Don’t stop meeting together with other believers, which some people have gotten into the habit of doing. Instead, encourage each other, especially as you see the day drawing near. (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Someone said to me the other day that, with our First Church services being live streamed, you could stay home in your robe and watch the entire service on your iPad or smartphone. Yes. You could.
But God wants us to gather as a church family to worship Him. It’s not a social thing. It’s a worship thing. When we get together, we share our support and inspire and encourage one another. As I stand greeting after a service, I hear people in line discuss what they have heard with others. I am asked questions or given comments. You don’t get that interaction when you watch online. Steaming services are great for those who can’t get out or have a conflict once in a while, but gathering together in God’s name is the true spirit in which we bring glory to God.
Pastor Woody