Cancellation of the Nonessential

Due to recent events, we are seeing cancellations more and more across the country and the world. Businesses are closing or severely limiting their services. Travel bans are causing flights to be canceled. Cruise lines and vacation destinations are closing down. Every major sports league has postponed their games or tournaments. Everything is grinding to a halt. In today’s world, anything considered nonessential is facing cancellation.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the Mormon Church) has announced the cancellation of all services and church activities for all Mormons worldwide. Many other denominational groups are enacting similar policies. Sadly, even some in the Lord's church are taking the same approach. Do Christians today really view the first day of the week worship assembly as nonessential? 

First, let me say that it is not my intention to minimize or ignore this virus. As we have done with every cold and flu season, and as we do whenever a bad stomach bug is going around, we take reasonable precautions. Secondly, it is not my intention to disrespect or defy the mandates of federal authorities and local officials. To do so would be a clear violation of God's Word. And third, do not think that I am trying to coerce the ill and elderly to harm themselves and possibly others. We have never forced those who are genuinely unable to attend to come to worship. 

The point I wish to make clear is that no one has the right to cancel worship on the first day of the week. Elderships have the authority to make judgement calls in optional matters. The elders can decide whether to have Bible classes and a second service on Sunday or not. Elders do not have the right and authority to release able-bodied Christians from the obligation to worship on the first day of the week and partake of the Lord’s Supper. First day of the week worship is essential. 

Today the wide majority of us are healthy and are able to worship, all while meeting the requirements of current mandates and mass gathering restrictions. The Old Testament provides many examples of worshippers, like Daniel, who maintained faithfulness in much more trying circumstances. New Testament Christians should be reminded that when there’s a will, there’s a way. We are pursuing holiness, not convenience. We are blessed with technology and with enough space to meet in separate groups. Church families could also hold multiple services (each group being as large as the bans will allow). If restrictions become stronger, then we will continue to find a way to obey God while still following the law of the land. We must never consider the worship of God to be nonessential.