We should FAITHFULLY participate in a local church because it is commanded by God. We should pray and ask the Lord to give us the Pastor and church that He would have us be a part of.

Hebrews 10:25 "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."

The writer of Hebrews points out that members of a local church have an obligation to one another. They are to provoke each other to good works and to exhort one another to live consistent lives worthy of God.

There are seven benefits that can be found in Acts 2:
"42. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers."

"43. "And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles."

"44. "And all that believed were together, and had all things common;

45. And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need."

"46. "And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,

47. Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved."

A. Instruction - "continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine."
B. Fellowship - "and fellowship."
C. Observance of the ordinances - "breaking of bread."
D. Corporate prayer - "prayers."
E. Effective outreach - "fear came upon every soul."
F. Common cause - "had all things in common."
G. Mutual Assistance - "divided them among all, as anyone had need."

Blessings from the Seeking Prayer Group,
Judy