The Home Ekklesia | Part B

One of the reasons house ekklesia go astray today is because they are merely fields for the abuse of authority. They are founded by people who were bitter because they could not get the power they sought over the congregation they were in. The Bible contains a principle that goes far to prevent that. Responsibility for the organization of home meetings should be that of the oldest son. The principle of the birthright was central in the home ekklesia in the book of Genesis. When children are given their rightful responsibility in reading the Scriptures in the hearing of those gathered and otherwise functioning visibly, then there is neither a problem of restless behavior on the part of children not the danger of adults angling for power, as they do in home ekklesia sometimes even more overtly than in established congregations.

In fact, the worship service can be made so simple that rather young children are capable of leading out. If it begins with silent prayer, where those gathered may break the silence with their petition, then continues with the leading child reading the Scripture lesson, after which study or discussion may take place, there is no point at which the leading child need feel that his role of leadership has been shunted aside. The elders can contribute to the bible study, give testimonies and exhortations, all without taking over the leadership of the meeting.

The birthright principle is in fact the thing that was given up when a national system of worship was instituted among the Israelites. The birthright was kept in principle, but in practice the firstborn was redeemed by giving money to the priests, who then took over their natural duties. This system prevailed under the judges and the kings. But like polygamy, this was not Yahuwah's original plan.

There were reasons for changing institutions during the times of the judges and kings. At the coming of the Messiah, this was reverted to the original plan. Yahushua established the original format of small-scale worship in Matthew 16-18, giving precise details for how worship should be organized.

The basic institution is in (Mat 18:19) Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. (Mat 18:20) For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
 

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WLC Source: https://www.worldslastchance.com/practical-godliness/the-home-ekklesia.html