1. What Paul calls for in 1 Corinthians 11-14 where we meet to edify each other, and different people contribute, has turned into a sermon show. No one can test their understanding or thoughts by asking questions, and having the answer discussed in the congregation.
2. Prayer is a rote performance, prepared beforehand and given by one person. We don't get to collectively undertake prayer for each other.
3. We think that the songs we should use to teach one another are 'worship'. But no one talks about discipling in true worship (Romans 12:1-2, James 1:27). In fact, there is no discipling, nothing that leads one to spiritual growth in the company and encouragement of older saints...but maybe there are no such 'older saints'. Songs of course have a function that's never mentioned, except by Paul: Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16.
4. There is nothing to teach new Christians. For instance, our Community College runs a class on the Bible (its called 'Ancient Texts in the Modern World) and while a bit liberal, it gives a really good overview of the structure, history and content of the Bible. We don't get that at our church.
5. No one seeks to develop our skills in speaking in public so we become more effective gospel-talkers. Only the paid performer does the speaking. Sure, he's trained, but his job should be to train and coach others.
6. It's all oldies who 'conduct' our gathering, which we call a 'service' as though we are in a pagan temple. No young people are being nurtured into the body life of our gathering.
7. The Lord's Supper has been reduced to a meaningless shot glass of grape juice and a crumb of cracker. I thought 'supper' was a meal. Like in Corinth, although Paul had to correct the selfish ones.
We really need to return to the practices of gatherings enjoined by the NT.
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