Introduction

An assembly (Gk. ekklesia) is a company of called-out people called out of the world unto the L_rd. They have become a "peculiar people" in the world 1 Pet 2:9), sanctified for G_d Himself alone.The assembly is placed in the world for a testimony for the L_rd, to be a light shining in the world of darkness.They do so by following the steps of their Master (Jn 8:12, Eph 5:8, Ph 2:15), according to His truth and love, through the Ruah HaKodesh working in and among them (Acts 1:8, Jn 15:25).

Descriptions of the Assembly pictorially:

  1. the pillar and ground of truth - Here, the truth must be practised, taught, seen and defended.

    2. b) the body of the Messiah (Eph 2:21) on earth - as the body, it is to display the character and likeness of the Head Who is in heaven (Eph 4:15).

    c) a chosen race, a kingly priesthood, a holy nation, a people for a possession - "that ye might set forth the excellencies of Him Who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light" (1 Pet 2:9,10, JND).

    Demonstration of Assembly Testimony

    Assembly testimony is demonstrated through proper behaviour in the house of God (1 Tim 3:15). But first there must be love of the Lord and His Word, so that there would be careful study and joyful obedience to His Word. This can be seen in the example of Israel as a chosen nation, how they were to be "careful to observe them for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples.."(Deut 4:6)

    Obedience should be to the whole counsel of G_d, which also includes instructions and principles to guide His New Covenant assemblies on various aspects. These New Covenant assembly principles and practices were studied in detail in our Believer's Education Program before. The following lists some of the topics and why they are important for assembly Testimony:

    a) Gathering unto His Name (Mt 18:20) - The risen Messiah must be the sole attraction and purpose of our gathering. His assembly must be gathered unto Him alone and not to a gifted "pastor", to hear a message or to the display of gifts.

    b) Remembrance of the L_rd through the bread (unleaven) and the cup (3rd Cup) (1Cor 11:23-29) - Through the bread and the cup, His wonderful Person and great sacrificial work become a regular reminder to His forgetful people. Here, love & devotion from His people are often rekindled, and here also their L_rd's death is proclaimed till He come.

  2. Subject to the Headship of the Messiah ([ph 5:23, Co 1:18) - The gathering must be subjected to Him as their sole authority for direction and depend on His resources for operation (Eph 4:15).

Priesthood of all believers

Back to Assembly Testimony Index page