FOCUSING THE ASSEMBLY

Heaven's view of the assemblies

Heaven has always honored people that came together to consider the things of God. A wonderful expression of this reality is found in the 133rd Psalm. "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; as the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore" (Psalms 133:1-3).

Observe the progression of this Psalm. First, we are urged to consider with deliberation what is said: "Behold!" Fix your mind upon this, and do not let it waver. It is "good and pleasant" for brothers to dwell together in unity. It is essentially "good"; i.e., it has quality that God recognizes. Wholesomeness and profit characterize such assemblies. It is also "pleasant;" i.e., refreshing, enjoyable, and satisfying. Rigorous duty does not yield such benefits. Here is a gathering initiated by desire rather than obligation. It contributes to the joy and profit of its participants.

Second, many individuals are united in godly oneness. This is not a caucus for complaining, or a meeting of adversaries. The homogeneity is so real that the people "dwell" together. "Dwelling together" is a Scriptural phrase denoting a godly assembly. The people enjoy each another. They also find delight in the reason for their gathering. The bond of spiritual love fuses them together.

Third, the effects of their gathering are permeating and far reaching. It is like the sanctifying ointment that flowed over Aaron when he was anointed High Priest. Every part of his person was set aside for the work of the Lord. From the top of his head, to his beard, to the lower extremities of his garments, the holy oil flowed. The gathering of the saints is like that. The "oil of joy" (Isa. 61:3) pervades the assembly of the righteous. Spiritual advantage and utility are realized as hearts and minds are united in Christ.

Fourth, the blessing of the Lord is there. It is a "commanded" blessing that Satan cannot thwart or neutralize: "for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore." God is eminent in the assembly of His people. He is there to bless, giving spiritual advantage. This blessing extends beyond the "worship hour": it is "life forevermore." People are brought into heaven's realm. This is not an assembly where God is implored to identify with us, but where God blesses us with identity with Himself.