The concept of a "company gathered" in the Bible often refers to an assembly or congregation of people coming together for a specific purpose, usually in a religious or communal context. This gathering can be seen throughout both the Old and New Testaments, serving various functions such as worship, decision-making, or celebration.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the gathering of people is frequently associated with worship and the observance of religious festivals. The Israelites were commanded to gather for feasts such as Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles. These gatherings were not only times of worship but also of communal remembrance and celebration of God's deliverance and provision. For example, in Exodus 12:6, the Israelites are instructed to gather as a community to sacrifice the Passover lamb: "You must keep it until the fourteenth day of the month, when the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel will slaughter the animals at twilight."

The gathering of the people also played a crucial role in decision-making and leadership. In Numbers 10:3, the Israelites are instructed to gather at the sound of the trumpet: "When both are sounded, the whole congregation is to assemble before you at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting." This assembly was essential for conveying God's instructions and ensuring unity among the people.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of a gathered company takes on new dimensions with the establishment of the early Church. The Greek word "ekklesia," often translated as "church," literally means "assembly" or "gathering." This reflects the communal nature of the early Christian faith, where believers would come together for worship, teaching, and fellowship.

Acts 2:42-47 provides a vivid picture of the early Church as a gathered company: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer... Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts." This passage highlights the importance of communal worship and shared life among believers.

The gathered company also served as a means of mutual edification and accountability. Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts believers: "And let us 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 underscores the necessity of gathering for spiritual growth and encouragement.

Theological Significance

Theologically, the gathering of believers is seen as a reflection of the unity and community inherent in the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:4-6 emphasizes this unity: "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." The gathered company is a visible expression of this spiritual reality, demonstrating the interconnectedness of believers through their shared faith in Christ.

Furthermore, the gathered company anticipates the ultimate assembly of believers in the eschatological future. Revelation 7:9-10 describes a vision of a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. This future gathering represents the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan and the consummation of His kingdom.

In summary, the concept of a "company gathered" in the Bible encompasses a rich tapestry of communal worship, decision-making, and spiritual edification. It reflects the unity and diversity of God's people, both in the present age and in the age to come.