Acknowledgment

Occasionally, you hear a sermon that you wish every one could hear! Brother
Smith Bibens recently delivered such a sermon in an evening service of the church
where I worship. His sermon was entitled The Assembly.

The last 9 points, under the heading, Other Principles, were taken from Smith's
sermon. Special thanks to Smith for sending me a written copy of his notes and
giving me permission to include parts of his sermon in this publication. The
thoughts that I have used are adapted to tract form. Therefore, any grammatical
errors that you may find are mine and not his.

I regard Smith as one of the best read Bible scholars of our time. I sincerely
appreciate his willingness to share his knowledge with others.

Irvin Barnes


Preface

"Creek bank, golf course," worship seems to be gaining in popularity. Several
factors have contributed to the notion that a Christian can sing a song or say a
prayer while fishing, hiking, or playing golf and this will satisfy the obligation of
worship.

Improper regard for the scriptures contributes largely to this idea. With some, it is
almost as if the Bible would have to say, "Go to church every Sunday or you will be
condemned," before they feel an obligation to attend worship regularly. One
scripture, one Bible based principle, for church attendance should be enough to
convince the sincere seeker of God that he should go to church. This publication
offers 15 Bible reasons why Christians must attend the worship services of the
church.

Some spend a portion of their time on Sunday listening to radio or television
preachers. This becomes their church service. Many of these same people donate
money to keep their favorite preacher on the air. This seems to strengthen their
attachment to the program. Reaching the lost through television and radio in no
way violates scripture. However, watching TV or listening to the radio is no
substitute for assembling with a local body of Christians.

Others stay at home and engage in a period of personal Bible study and prayer.
There's no harm in personal Bible study and prayer whether it be in a fishing boat,
on the golf course, at home or while one is surrounded by nature in a remote
forest area. Such activity should be a part of the life of every Christian. However,
again, this does not satisfy the teaching of the Bible regarding a Christian's
obligation to meet with other Christians on a regular basis in a worship assembly.

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