Topical Encyclopedia In the context of biblical studies and Christian practice, the term "convention" can refer to a formal gathering or assembly of believers for the purpose of worship, teaching, fellowship, and decision-making. While the Bible does not explicitly use the term "convention," the concept of gathering together is deeply rooted in Scripture and has been a significant aspect of Christian life throughout history.Biblical Foundations The practice of assembling together is evident in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were commanded to gather for various feasts and religious observances. For example, Deuteronomy 16:16 states, "Three times a year all your men must appear before the LORD your God in the place He will choose: at the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles." These gatherings were times of communal worship, instruction, and celebration. In the New Testament, the early church continued the practice of gathering together. Acts 2:42 describes the early believers: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." This verse highlights the importance of communal activities in the life of the early church. Additionally, 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." Historical Development Throughout church history, conventions have played a crucial role in the development and dissemination of Christian doctrine and practice. The early ecumenical councils, such as the Council of Nicaea in AD 325, were significant conventions where church leaders gathered to address theological disputes and establish orthodox teachings. These gatherings were instrumental in shaping the foundational beliefs of Christianity. In more recent history, conventions have taken various forms, including denominational gatherings, missionary conferences, and revival meetings. These events have served as platforms for teaching, evangelism, and the strengthening of Christian unity and mission. Modern Practice Today, Christian conventions continue to be an important aspect of church life. They provide opportunities for believers to come together for worship, teaching, and fellowship on a larger scale than regular local church gatherings. Conventions often feature guest speakers, workshops, and seminars that address contemporary issues facing the church and society. Denominational conventions, such as those held by the Southern Baptist Convention or the United Methodist Church, are significant for decision-making and governance within those bodies. These gatherings allow for collective discernment and the setting of priorities and policies. Spiritual Significance The spiritual significance of conventions lies in their ability to foster unity, encourage spiritual growth, and equip believers for service. As believers gather, they are reminded of their shared faith and mission. Conventions can serve as catalysts for revival and renewal, inspiring attendees to live out their faith more fully in their communities and beyond. In summary, while the Bible does not specifically mention "conventions," the practice of gathering together for worship, teaching, and fellowship is a biblically grounded and historically significant aspect of Christian life. Conventions continue to play a vital role in the spiritual development and unity of the church today. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The act of coming together; the state of being together; union; coalition.2. (v. i.) General agreement or concurrence; arbitrary custom; usage; conventionality. 3. (n.) A meeting or an assembly of persons, esp. of delegates or representatives, to accomplish some specific object, -- civil, social, political, or ecclesiastical. 4. (n.) An extraordinary assembly of the parliament or estates of the realm, held without the king's writ, -- as the assembly which restored Charles II. to the throne, and that which declared the throne to be abdicated by James II. 5. (n.) An agreement or contract less formal than, or preliminary to, a treaty; an informal compact, as between commanders of armies in respect to suspension of hostilities, or between states; also, a formal agreement between governments or sovereign powers; as, a postal convention between two governments. Library At an Annual Convention. Excursus on the Convention Said to have Been Held in Paris, AD 825 ... The Emperor Orders a Convention Composed of all the Various Sects. ... Sermon at the Fourth Annual Convention of the Brotherhood of St. ... What Occurred Relative to the Same Subject in the Preparatory ... Visits Midway. Attends the Missouri State Convention. Reflections. ... Sermon at the Opening Services of the General Convention, October ... Concerning the Second Holy General Council, and the Place and ... Further Particulars Concerning the Term "Consubstantial. " Council ... Prefatory Note. Thesaurus Convention (1 Occurrence)... respect to suspension of hostilities, or between states; also, a formal agreement between governments or sovereign powers; as, a postal convention between two ... /c/convention.htm - 7k Relationships (1 Occurrence) James (40 Occurrences) Negotiate (1 Occurrence) Diet (2 Occurrences) Delos Delegation (5 Occurrences) Meeting (323 Occurrences) Convent Conversant (2 Occurrences) Resources What are Baptist General Conventions? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a Missionary Baptist Church? What do Missionary Baptists believe? | GotQuestions.org What is the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship? | GotQuestions.org Convention: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Convention (1 Occurrence)Numbers 16:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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