Topical Encyclopedia
The term "convenes" refers to the act of assembling or gathering together, often for a specific purpose or meeting. In the context of the Bible, convening is a significant action that occurs in various forms, whether it be the gathering of people for worship, counsel, or decision-making. The concept of convening is deeply rooted in the communal and covenantal aspects of biblical faith, where God’s people are often called to come together in His presence.
Old Testament ContextIn the Old Testament, convening is frequently associated with the assembly of the Israelites. One of the most notable examples is the gathering at Mount Sinai, where the Israelites convened to receive the Law from God through Moses.
Exodus 19:17 states, "Then Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain." This assembly was a pivotal moment in the establishment of the covenant between God and His people.
The concept of convening is also evident in the regular gatherings for worship and sacrifice.
Leviticus 23 outlines the appointed feasts of the Lord, during which the Israelites were commanded to convene for holy convocations. These gatherings were not only acts of worship but also served to reinforce the communal identity and faith of the people.
New Testament ContextIn the New Testament, the idea of convening takes on new dimensions with the establishment of the early Church. The Book of Acts provides numerous accounts of believers convening for prayer, teaching, and fellowship.
Acts 2:42 describes the early Christians: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." These gatherings were essential for the growth and unity of the early Christian community.
The apostle Paul also emphasizes the importance of convening in his epistles. In
Hebrews 10:24-25 , believers are encouraged to "consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This passage highlights the spiritual and communal benefits of convening as a body of believers.
Theological SignificanceTheologically, convening is an expression of the communal nature of God’s people. It reflects the biblical principle that faith is not merely an individual endeavor but a collective journey. Convening allows believers to worship corporately, support one another, and discern God’s will together. It is a tangible expression of the unity and fellowship that believers share in Christ.
Moreover, convening is a reminder of the eschatological hope of the ultimate gathering of God’s people.
Revelation 7:9 envisions a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. This future convening underscores the universal scope of God’s redemptive plan and the eternal fellowship that awaits believers.
Practical ImplicationsIn practical terms, the act of convening remains vital for the Church today. Regular gatherings for worship, teaching, and fellowship are essential for spiritual growth and community building. They provide opportunities for believers to exercise their spiritual gifts, encourage one another, and engage in collective mission and service.
Church leaders are tasked with facilitating these gatherings in a manner that honors God and edifies the congregation. Whether through traditional services, small groups, or other forms of assembly, the act of convening continues to be a cornerstone of Christian life and practice.
Library
Epiphanius Bishop of CyprusConvenes a Synod to Condemn the Books...
... Book VI. Chapter X."Epiphanius Bishop of Cyprusconvenes a Synod to condemn
the Books of Origen. He moreover renewed his friendship...
General Index to Sozomen's Ecclesiastical History.
... rebukes Arius and Alexander, [2895]252; is grieved at Paschal controversy,
[2896]252; sends Hosius to reconcile differences, [2897]253;convenes council at...
Debate on the Proposed Invasion of Greece.
... inherited and blood shed."Character of Artabanus."His advice to Xerxes."The Ionian
rebellion."First invasion of Greece."Xerxesconvenes a public...
Letter xxxiii. To Paula.
... Imperial Rome consents to his condemnation, and evenconvenes a senate to censure
him, [756] not"as the rabid hounds who now pursue him cry"because of the...
Epistle Lxv. To Januarius, Bishop of Caralis (Cagliari).
... you may be able to correct what has been unlawfully done, as in the case of persons
under you, whom the obligation of their conditionconvenes before you...
But Perhaps You Will Say to Me: "Why do You Fill Your Paper with...
... Imperial Rome consents to his condemnation, and evenconvenes a senate to censure
him, not"as the rabid hounds who now pursue him cry"because of the...
Eusebius: Constantine. General Index.
... of decrees of councils, [3411]547; listens standing to Eusebius, [3412]548; appoints
his sons C??sars, [3413]550; founds cities, [3414]550;convenes council at...
General Index to Socrates' Ecclesiastical History.
... this course, [288]53; passes to Alexandria and on the way performs ordinations,
thus occasioning fresh accusations against himself, [289]53;convenes a council...
The Ecclesiastical History of Scholasticus
... Chapter X.--Epiphanius Bishop of Cyprusconvenes a Synod to condemn the Books of
Origen. Chapter XI.--Of Severian and Antiochus: their Disagreement from John....
INDEX TO VOL. I.
... defines the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, [1187]108; issues the Papal
Syllabus, [1188]128;convenes the Vatican Council, [1189]136; controls its...
Thesaurus
Convenes (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance
Convenes (1 Occurrence). Job 11:10 If he passes by, or
confines, or
convenes a court, then who can oppose him? (WEB NIV).
...Convened (13 Occurrences)
Imprisons (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Imprisons (2 Occurrences). Job 11:10 If he passes by,
or confines, orconvenes a court, then who can oppose him? (See RSV)....
Restrain (31 Occurrences)
... Who will ask him,'What are you doing?' (See NAS). Job 11:10 If he passes by, or
confines, orconvenes a court, then who can oppose him? (See NAS)....
Conveneth (1 Occurrence)
Confines (3 Occurrences)
... were deeded (See NAS). Job 11:10 If he passes by, or confines, orconvenes
a court, then who can oppose him? (WEB NIV). Job 26:10...
Oppose (29 Occurrences)
... drew the sword. (See NIV). Job 11:10 If he passes by, or confines, orconvenes
a court, then who can oppose him? (WEB NIV). Job 23...
Calls (62 Occurrences)
... your name. (WEB NAS RSV). Job 11:10 If he passes by, or confines, orconvenes
a court, then who can oppose him? (See NAS RSV). Job...
Passes (74 Occurrences)
... He passes on also, but I don't perceive him. (WEB RSV NIV). Job 11:10 If he passes
by, or confines, orconvenes a court, then who can oppose him? (WEB NAS RSV)....
Court (172 Occurrences)
... in judgment. (See NAS NIV). Job 11:10 If he passes by, or confines, orconvenes
a court, then who can oppose him? (WEB NIV). Job 11...
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