Quotes from Houses that Change the World, by Wolfgang Simson (1998). He is German, and has been a missionary in India, and seen multiplication of house churches. He uses the same vocabulary as in the podcast interview (some days ago) by @sinbach called 'From Megachurch to Multiplication'.
I've read this kind of books for ten years, but I've met very few where I live that want to give up their traditional way of doing Church or even want to be challenged in their way of thinking, as: Am I doing it by the Book? What does God want? Are we sharing the Gospel Message or are we only after more members and financial gifts? Are we empowering (sending out) or controlling (keeping) people? Do we use money only to build a reputation, or give to those in need?
Asked yourself, when have you experienced real friendship among believers, the tangible presence of God, personal growth, been challenged, learnt valuable lessons, been educated etc.? For me, it's almost never been Sunday mornings.
@tanjaostman @sinbach , I echo this!! I long for that deep fellowship around Jesus and the tangible presence of God for myself and my family. My father and mother were a pastoral team my entire life till my mother went to be with Jesus and my father suddenly passed last October. God's presence and the strengthening of the body to reach out to the lost was their burden, and they carried it with all their hearts.
I'm asking Jesus how that should be carried out in our desire to hold gatherings in our home, something my husband and I want to do.
Thankyou for sharing, @tanjaostman.
@Williams_girl thanks so much for sharing your thoughts!
@tanjaostman love this!