I suppose different things appeal to people in different ways.
I have had the privilege of being in different church environments. Some prefer a very rigid structure and order. Some are more flexible. Some make a big deal of monologue preaching as the central point of the gathering. Some make a big deal of the songs sung throughout the gathering. Some prefer a quieter approach. Some like it boisterous. Some like it to be short. Some enjoy extended time together. Some are intimate in setting. Some are designed for performance at the front and spectators watching on. The variety is very informative of people’s tastes, preferences, conventions and priorities.
My preference is for a gathering that stimulates mutual edification and is the ground for teaching and learning. I love that. Don’t get me wrong singing and that has it’s important place and they too can contribute to the effort of building each other. It’s the meat of the matter of engaging intentionally with each other to stir growth that I love. That’s why for me, sometimes it’s what happens after the session rather than in the session where my attention is maximised.
Be that as it may, I love being in a learning environment – growing in knowing God more through His Word by His Spirit. In that I love hearing teachers help to develop that setting for learning through their capacity to lay a foundation for what we are about to learn. I love it when they do that in a way that is clear for you as the learners to understand and see how it applies beyond the immediate setting to the different settings of life. It’s a gift to be able to do that. Everything built on such a solid foundation stands the test of time and experience. It also helps when looking to do the same for someone else in their journey of faith.
When I come across those teachers who excel in that I applaud God for His kindness to us in making that available to us to help us know Him deeper. It’s great.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 