LV101: On the other hand the scripture Tammy stated about not forsaking the gathering (or gathering others to Christ as she indicated) still leaves me questioning. I think the community, support, friendship, Bible studies, etc., some religious insitutions offer is good. I know I personally didn't feel any of this at the w/tower.
A little background info about Heb 10:24. It was the custom of those people at that time to gather for meals and then have discussions regarding the letters they had received from the Apostles, It became a custom to skip these events. There is absolutely no scripitual "Christian" outline for former "church" meetings. At this time in history the early Christians met in homes, there are a number scripitural references to this. I see you have had 1450 post, I am sure you have not heard this before. Going back to a Church, structured setting doing nothing more than keep one captive. You will never feel or find Christian love with the JWs. Where there is no TRUTH, there is no LOVE. So how can this type of setting really be good???? If there is no love? It seems to me that this is a contradiction in human nature and what Christ taught.
If you did some research into this scripture 1 Cor 11:27 you will notice these christians who gathered to celebrate the Lords evening meal gathered in a private home. The WTBTS uses this scripture to perpetrate the idea if you partake unworthly, than this is committing the unforgiveable sin. NOT TRUE!!!!!. What was happening here is this, these Christians were abusing this event, they skipped eating on this particular day and had their "personal" meal of the day at someone else's expence. Just look at vs 33-34. So the CUSTOM was to gather in small groups share a meal and then fellowship. NOT as we see it in todays eccelestical settings.
Affectionately: Brother of the Hawk ( I will surrender my mind no, more forever)