Paul actually expects Christ to be encountered as his people share with one another a whole range of verbal ministries in the congregational.
For example, as they “sing psalms, hymns and spiritual song,” with gratitude in their hearts to God, they will fulfill the apostolic injunction, “Let the word of Christ dwell among you richly” (Col. 3:16; cf. Eph. 5:19-20).
As the gospel or “the word of Christ” is proclaimed and applied in the congregation, so Christ himself makes his character and presence known and impresses his will on his people.
Clearly, any gospel-based ministry of encouragement or admonition will be a means by which Christ engages with his people. This will happen when the Scriptures are formally expounded and taught or when believers informally exhort one another to live out their obedience to the gospel.
The Spirit, who unites believers in a common relationship with God through faith in Christ, gifts and inspires them to be the means by which he continues to confront them with his truth” (1 Cor. 12:4-13).
from Engaging with God: A Biblical Theology of Worship
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Gender-neutral version:
Paul actually expects Christ to be encountered as his people share with one another a whole range of verbal ministries in the congregational.
For example, as they “sing psalms, hymns and spiritual song,” with gratitude in their hearts to God, they will fulfill the apostolic injunction, “Let the word of Christ dwell among you richly” (Col. 3:16; cf. Eph. 5:19-20).
As the gospel or “the word of Christ” is proclaimed and applied in the congregation, so Christ himself makes his character and presence known and impresses his will on his people.
Clearly, any gospel-based ministry of encouragement or admonition will be a means by which Christ engages with his people. This will happen when the Scriptures are formally expounded and taught or when believers informally exhort one another to live out their obedience to the gospel.
The Spirit, who unites believers in a common relationship with God through faith in Christ, gifts and inspires them to be the means by which the Spirit continues to confront them with the Spirit’s truth” (1 Cor. 12:4-13).
from Engaging with God: A Biblical Theology of Worship