Gather

Gathering regularly to worship the risen Lord Jesus is essential to the health of the Christian and the health of the church. Without it, we will wither and eventually die spiritually. This book highlights both why we gather and what we do when we gather. Read it with much encouragement and profit. | As a pastor, Tony Merida is giving his life to serving the local church. As a scholar, he uses his considerable gifts to bolster the church and those who serve it, through his teaching and writing ministry. Merida brings the full weight of his experience and gifting together in Gather. All who love the church will be encouraged by reading Gather, and every local church will be strengthened by applying its message. | Tony Merida encourages us to move from spectating in directionless comfort to participating with joyful purpose. This book challenges us to reassess our individual motivations for gathering and to realign our hearts with the privilege we have in Christ—to praise and worship our Father God together. The biblical truths outlined in this book will renew our resolve to devote ourselves to our church gatherings (Acts 2:42). | This timely book crackles with energy from cover to cover. The theological vision of church life that it offers is grand and exhilarating, yet it is grounded and practical, down to the value of a good night’s sleep on Saturday night! I hope that everyone in the church I pastor will read it, and I am excited to put its lessons into practice in my own life. You could easily read this book in a single sitting—which is great, because it is worth reading over and over. | This is a timely and necessary call to all who profess to love Jesus. Tony writes in a way that not only tells me why I need to gather but makes me want to. | This book made me look forward to Sunday! Here, you’ll find a compelling and highly practical exploration of why we gather each week as God’s people. | With profound clarity, Tony Merida weaves together theological truth and practical wisdom to provide readers with a renewed vision of the beauty and necessity of the local gathering. In a cultural moment when more and more Christians believe they can hold on to Jesus while leaving behind his church, this is the book everyone needs to read! | Tony Merida is Pastor for Preaching and Vision of Imago Dei Church, Raleigh, NC and a Council member of The Gospel Coalition. He is the author of a number of books, including Love Your Church, Ruth For You, The Christ-Centered Expositor, and Ordinary. He and his wife, Kimberly, have five adopted children.