On unity, I’m reminded of 1 Corinthians. Understanding this epistle has revolutionized the way I understand myself and view others. Your remarks are on point! I long for a cross-generational (my pastor often refers to a ‘minimum of 3′) church that finds its identity in Christ.

“…it was an assumed discipline and the early communities were keenly aware of why they were assembling together (something churches in free societies, where they do not suffer persecution, are less prone to).”

Do we not also realize this sometimes, after one of our casual, fruitless outings finds us returning home empty? Why? I think it’s because we haven’t given Jesus the central place of honor and recognition He should get among His children.

“In a local church, people enter into a mutual agreement of edification…Social groups outside the church also need you, but the church acts a group of people who are seeking the same purpose.”

Speaking for the unity in diversity that God has ordained, we should expect then, that our church be cross-generational and never socially casted. Anything less would not resemble His church and would rob us of valuable experiences, raising ourselves in an artificially controlled environment.