The significance of meeting together for spiritual purposes is vital throughout the Bible and in the church today. We have seen how detrimental isolation is for humans these past few years. Most people agree that life is better when we are together with others.
As believers in Christ, we are better together, including praying together. Jesus tells us in Matthew 18:20For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them. [1]As you study spiritual revivals, they have a common thread of people coming together to pray for revival.
The Psalmist wrote about the power of praying together. Psalm 34:3 Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt his name together. [2] The early believers knew the power of gathering for prayer. Acts 1:14 They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary, the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus. [3]
Before the Holy Spirit Came, the Believers Gathered to Pray
Jesus had a message for His disciples after His resurrection. Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” The disciples did not know when the Lord would send His Spirit, so they faithfully gathered each day to pray. When the Holy Spirit came that first day of Pentecost, it answered prayer beyond what they could imagine.
The Lord Calls Us to Gather Together
There is something meaningful about gathering corporately to pray. As we speak to the Lord, He brings our thoughts and ideas into alignment with His will. When people pray, our hearts join with God’s heart and each other. As we pray for others, we see them as the Lord sees them, giving us a different perspective. When we gather to pray regularly, a sense of anticipation arises as we anticipate God doing something. As the Lord answers prayers, excitement builds, and faith is strengthened.
Also, as people pray together, it provides space for people of greater faith to encourage those who may struggle. In addition, faithful prayers move the heart of God. When we come together to pray, we receive a fantastic gift because Jesus promises to be among us. No matter how large or small the group, or shaky our requests are, the Lord who lives in us prays alongside us. (Ref. Hebrews 7:25). Whenever the body of Christ gathers to pray, Jesus joins your group.
To learn more about the significance of meeting together, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/empowered-here
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.