The Hebrew writer jotted down the following: “Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Worship time together and with God is very important to the wellbeing of soul and spirit. However, I don’t think what a preacher in Alcoa Tennessee did was exactly the intent behind the Holy Spirit’s inspiring words. Joe Colquitt is the preacher at St. John Missionary Baptist Church. It seems that Mr. Colquitt was upset with his son, but more precisely about his son’s church attendance. So Mr. Colquitt “stimulated” and “encouraged” his son to start attending more regularly at the point of a gun. The son, Michael, has since taken out an order of protection against his dad. The younger Colquitt told police that his father pulled out a handgun when they met at the church building to discuss the father’s concerns. He told officers that his father pointed the gun at him and threatened to kill him, his wife, and the entire family.
Wow, I never thought of that before; filling the pews by way of 9mm persuasion. However, I don’t think threats and coercion is going to bring one lost soul to Jesus, or even to a single worship service. To come together each first day of the week and worship is a personal choice every person makes for him/herself  during some point in their life. For me worship is something I look forward to for a number of reasons. First, it makes me stronger and more prepared to face the coming days. Second, I have the privilege to be with you; the people I love in this world. Third, I have the honor to come and praise Him for being my Heavenly Father and saving me from a fiery destruction because of my sins. But let me tell you this dear family: if I ever start neglecting the assemble; you have my permission to draw your gun and explain the alternative.