House churches in the new testament
House churches, also known as domestic churches or home churches, were a common form of Christian community in the New Testament era. Here are some examples and references:
- The Early Church in Jerusalem (Acts 2:46-47, 5:42): The apostles and believers in Jerusalem gathered in homes for worship, fellowship, and teaching.
- The Church in Antioch (Acts 11:26, 12:5): The disciples in Antioch, including Barnabas and Saul (Paul), met in a house church.
- The Church in Corinth (1 Corinthians 16:19): The church in Corinth, founded by Paul, met in the home of Gaius.
- The Church in Rome (Romans 16:5): The church in Rome, also founded by Paul, met in the home of Phoebe.
- The Church in Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10): The church in Thessalonica, founded by Paul, met in a house church.
- The Church in Philippi (Philippians 4:2-3): The church in Philippi, founded by Paul, met in the home of Lydia.
- The Church in Ephesus (1 Corinthians 16:19): The church in Ephesus, founded by Paul, met in the home of Aquila and Priscilla.
These house churches were often characterized by:
- Small size: House churches were typically small, intimate gatherings of believers.
- Informal structure: House churches often lacked a formal hierarchy or organization.
- Emphasis on community: House churches emphasized fellowship, sharing, and mutual support among believers.
- Teaching and preaching: House churches often featured teaching and preaching by apostles, elders, or other leaders.
- Worship and prayer: House churches included worship, prayer, and singing.
- Meals and hospitality: House churches often involved shared meals and hospitality.
The New Testament does not provide a comprehensive description of house churches, but these examples give us a glimpse into the early Christian communities.