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. -- Daniel L Akin (President, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, NC)
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. -- Jason K. Allen (President, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Host, Preaching & Pastors Podcast)
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). -- Lucy Lyell (Chair, London Ministry Wives)
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. -- Nick Tucker (Author, 12 Things God Can't Do)
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. -- Alistair Begg (Bible Teacher, Truth For Life; Senior Pastor, Parkside Church, Cleveland; Author, Pray Big and A Christian Manifesto)
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. -- Jonty Allcock (Pastor of Globe Church, London; author of Lost, Hero and Fearless)
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! -- Elizabeth Woodson (Bible teacher; Author)
