Got Any Chairs?

Kipp Campbell

I am reminded of a story in which a preacher and his large family, who were new to a congregation, went to visit a deacon on his farm. After all the greetings and pleasantries were exchanged, there was an awkward silence as the family just stood there, looking for a place to sit down, since the room only had two chairs. After a couple of silent seconds had gone by, the preacher remarked, “Brother, I don’t think you have enough chairs!” However, the man responded, “That ain’t it, I got plenty of chairs – just too much company!” You can imagine the shock of hearing that come a member of the Lord’s church. Yet, this kind of action is actually rather prevalent in the Lord’s church today.

I know of Christians who have made it abundantly clear they want nothing to do with each other outside of services. This is confirmed when it’s time to get-together and they aren’t there. Rather than supporting the time Christians have with each other, they would rather sit at home or associate with worldly friends. It really is a sad commentary when Christians can’t stand to be around each other.

As Christians, we should understand just how important it is for us to spend quality time with each other. The only way for us to “get to know” each other and to know what is going on with each other is to spend time with each other. In Acts 2:44-47, we see a model of what we’re supposed to be. In v. 46 Luke wrote, “And day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart.” Every day those Christians at meals together. Granted, it was a new time and there was an electric feeling in the air, but they all had the desire to spend time with each other. The point is, they made the time to be with each other. Now, I’m not saying we should eat every meal together or be with each other every day. But we do need to make sure we are making time to spend with one another, so we can know what’s going on in each other’s lives. Perhaps the easiest way to do this is to invite someone into our homes. Peter said, “Be hospitable to one another without complaint” (I Pet. 4:9). Whether it’s for supper (dinner where I’m from), dessert, or even for just a cup of coffee, invite them in and get to know them.

We need each other more than ever today. We are “in the world” for the majority of our week and let’s face it – we need all the help we can get to escape the clutches of Satan. There is a great deal of strength we can draw from being the in each other’s presence. So, let’s make sure we are setting aside time right now to get to know one another better. Just make sure you have enough chairs!