Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Significance:In the biblical context, "assembles" refers to gatherings or congregations of people, often for religious, communal, or judicial purposes. These assemblies are significant as they reflect the communal nature of worship and decision-making in biblical times. The concept of assembling is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Israelites and the early Christian church, emphasizing unity, worship, and the collective seeking of God's will. Old Testament Context: The Old Testament frequently mentions assemblies in the context of the Israelites gathering for worship, instruction, or decision-making. One of the earliest references is found in the assembly at Mount Sinai, where the Israelites gathered to receive the Law from God. In Deuteronomy 9:10, Moses recounts, "And the LORD gave me the two tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God, and on them were all the commandments that the LORD had spoken to you on the mountain out of the fire on the day of the assembly." Assemblies were also convened for significant events, such as the dedication of the Temple or national repentance. In 2 Chronicles 7:9, during the dedication of Solomon's Temple, it is recorded, "On the eighth day they held a solemn assembly, for the dedication of the altar lasted seven days, and the feast seven days more." New Testament Context: In the New Testament, assemblies take on a new dimension with the formation of the early Christian church. The Greek word "ekklesia," often translated as "church," literally means "assembly" or "gathering." This reflects the early Christians' practice of meeting together for worship, teaching, and fellowship. Acts 2:42 describes the early church: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." The writer of Hebrews emphasizes the importance of assembling together, especially in the context of mutual encouragement and spiritual growth. Hebrews 10:25 exhorts believers, "Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Theological Implications: Assemblies in the Bible underscore the importance of community in the life of faith. They serve as a reminder that worship and spiritual growth are not solely individual pursuits but are deeply communal. The act of assembling is a testament to the unity and shared purpose of God's people, whether in ancient Israel or the early church. Assemblies also highlight the role of leadership and teaching within the community. Leaders such as Moses, Solomon, and the apostles played crucial roles in guiding and instructing the assembled people, ensuring that the gatherings were centered on God's word and purposes. Practical Applications: For contemporary believers, the biblical concept of assembling encourages regular participation in church gatherings and community worship. It serves as a call to prioritize communal worship and fellowship, recognizing the spiritual benefits of gathering with other believers. Assemblies provide opportunities for teaching, encouragement, and the exercise of spiritual gifts, contributing to the overall health and growth of the church body. In summary, the biblical theme of assemblies reflects the communal nature of faith, the importance of gathering for worship and instruction, and the role of community in spiritual growth and encouragement. Greek 4905. sunerchomai -- to come together, by ext. to accompany ... to accompany NASB Word Usage accompanied (2), assemble (2), assembled (3), assembles (1), came (3), came together (3), come (1), come together (7), coming ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4905.htm - 8k Library Herodotus and Xenophon. The Cross of Christ Frequently Announced in the Old Testament. On Baptism. The Tenets of the Esseni Continued. In what Manner, and from what Cause, the Functions of the ... Ill-Temper I Believe in the Holy Ghost; the Holy Christian Church, the ... The Ecclesiastical Canons of the Same Holy Apostles. Letter Lvi. --To the Emperor Jovian. Moravians, or United Brethren. Thesaurus Assembles (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Assembles (1 Occurrence). 1 Corinthians 14:23 If, therefore, the whole assembly may come together, to the ... /a/assembles.htm - 6k Assembleth (9 Occurrences) Anah (10 Occurrences) Assembled (186 Occurrences) Herd (118 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Assembles (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 14:23 Subtopics Related Terms |