Training and Practice

In society one must receive training prior to being licensed to own a firearm; receive training prior to being licensed to drive a car or truck on public roads; receive training prior to being licensed to practice medicine or law, receive training prior to being accredited to work in most professional vocations.

We all recognize training and practice are necessary for one to become skilled in sports, education, etc why not public prayer, Bible reading, commenting during the communion. It would seem useful for the church in its educational program to offer training in the various activities involved in the public assemblies.

Preparation to make a presentation is expected and we would not ask an untrained individual to preach or teach without giving the individual time to prepare. Even trained individuals require time for getting their thoughts together but often we do not offer that same recognition for an individual to prepare prior to leading the congregation in addressing The God. Last minute requests lead to rote prayers. It takes time to gather one's thoughts as to be somewhat original, at least for that assembly. Lack of time leads to "ready recollections," "beds of affliction," "praying for those for whom we have a duty to pray," the constant reference to Father," and other expressions that are never heard in any other setting. Our assemblies must be time of sinning because the first prayer the last prayer and any prayer in between mention the forgiveness of sins, surely there other things to pray for than visitors and the sick.

Training in the public reading of the Bible would seem appropriate. Training permits those interested in developing their skill and their appreciation for the importance of the work to participate. With training might come more participants?

David said, "I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing." 2 Samuel 24:24. When no sacrifice is required the activity is devalued.

Talking about such things is as sensitive as parents talking about sex to their children. Except the parents' concern that saying to much might lead to participation we do not say anything about "church" things due to a concern that saying to much will lead to non-participation. A friendly loving congregation ought to be able to discuss such things, shouldn't it?