Vision Statement of Northeast Gospel Chapel
An Explanation of the Breaking of Bread
The remembrance of the death, resurrection and sin-cleansing work of our Lord Jesus Christ on the Cross. This meeting is called the Breaking of Bread, (Acts 2:42), Communion(fellowship)(1 Corinthians 10:16), and the Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 11:20). We do this at His request, for His glory and pleasure. As it appears to have been the central meeting of the early church (Acts 20:7), so it is with us. We honor the Lord Jesus as the invisible and present Head of this gathering.
The Scriptures make clear that the remembrance is for those who have entered into a personal relationship with Christ, have been born again by the Spirit, and are walking in fellowship with Him. We must be able to say with Thomas, "My Lord and my God" (John 20:28).
If some partake in a careless way (inattentive, unperceptive, continuing in some sin), they are in danger of Divine displeasure and discipline (1 Corinthians 11:27-30). There should be strict self- judgment before partaking. If you are involved in strife with others, make every effort toward reconciliation before partaking (Matthew 5:23-24). Never come to worship God with hatred, resentment and bitterness in your heart towards others.
We believe that women are fully equal with men and one "in Christ" (Galatians 3:28). However, we respect the Scriptures that govern order in the church, providing for women to refrain from public ministry at the meeting of the church (1 Corinthians 14:34-35).
Our remembrance meeting is a memorial of the death of Christ, not a sacrament which conveys grace or forgiveness, as some churches teach.
Our worship is an opportunity for various brethren to participate (1 Corinthians 14:26), not for one man to preside over the elements and dispense them to believers. Christ is our center of gathering, not a minister.
Our worship is characterized by simplicity, as in the first and early meetings of this king. It is not characterized by impressive ceremony or elaborate ornamentation and dress.
If you have questions, please let us know. If you are ready in God's sight to partake at His table, then you are welcome, but please observe what we are doing and cooperate with what we have outlined above from the Word.