What is the definition of convocation?

Definition and Etymology

The term “convocation” in Scripture typically refers to a formal gathering or assembly called for a specific, sacred purpose. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew term often translated as “convocation” is מִקְרָא (miqra), signifying something “called out” or “proclaimed.” The Berean Standard Bible uses the English word “convocation” to render this idea of a holy assembly or sacred gathering (cf. Leviticus 23).

Although modern English can use “convocation” for graduations or organizational meetings, the biblical usage carries the nuance of a God-ordained or solemn call to worship, celebration, or commemoration. It is not merely a secular meeting, but a moment when the people are called to recognize their covenant relationship with God.

Old Testament Context and Usage

1. Feasts and Holy Days

Numerous passages in the Pentateuch describe “convocations” in the context of feasts and festivals. For instance, Leviticus 23:4 says, “These are the LORD’s appointed feasts, the sacred assemblies you are to proclaim at their appointed times.” Here, “sacred assemblies” corresponds to holy convocations—times when the nation set aside regular work to gather in reverent observance of the LORD’s festivals.

Another well-known reference is found in Leviticus 23:36, which states, “For seven days you shall present an offering made by fire to the LORD. On the eighth day you are to hold a sacred assembly and present an offering made by fire to the LORD. It is a solemn assembly; you are not to do any regular work.” The gathering on the eighth day at the conclusion of the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) was considered a particularly solemn convocation.

2. Sabbath Observance

The weekly Sabbath also exemplifies a recurring convocation. Leviticus 23:3 declares, “For six days work may be done, but on the seventh day is a Sabbath of complete rest, a sacred assembly. You are not to do any work; wherever you live, it is a Sabbath to the LORD.” Thus, the Sabbath represents a weekly convocation in which God’s people cease ordinary labor and gather to worship and reflect.

3. God’s Intent for These Gatherings

Convocations in the Old Testament were designed to help the people remember the works of God throughout history, such as deliverance from Egypt and entry into the Promised Land. These gatherings also reaffirmed the nation’s covenant identity. They underscore the principle that worship of God is communal, sacred, and takes priority over normal daily routines.

New Testament Reflection and Connection

1. Christ and Fulfillment of Feasts

While the New Testament does not frequently use the term “convocation” as in the Old Testament, the concept of a sacred assembly resonates with gatherings in the early church. For example, the feast days that called for holy convocations (such as Passover) find their spiritual fulfillment in Christ (1 Corinthians 5:7), who is described as our Passover Lamb. Many scholars note that when believers gather to celebrate the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:23–26), they are holding, in effect, a sacred assembly reminiscent of convocation principles under the old covenant.

2. Continued Pattern of Gatherings

Believers in Acts 2:46 are shown meeting daily “in the temple courts and from house to house.” Though not labeled as “convocations” in English translations, these gatherings echo the heart of convocation: communal worship, fellowship, and remembrance of Christ’s atoning work. Hebrews 10:25 encourages Christians “not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing,” reinforcing the idea of sacred assemblies in community.

Theological Significance

1. Call to Holiness

Holy convocations are set apart for the worship of God and reflection on His character. These gatherings instill reverence, reminding the people of the moral and spiritual distinctiveness God requires. Just as the ancient Israelites were called to sanctify themselves during these assemblies (e.g., Exodus 19:10–11), believers today are called to maintain purity in both corporate worship and daily life.

2. Community and Unity

The act of gathering for a sacred purpose fosters unity among God’s people. In John 17:21, Jesus prays for believers “that they all may be one.” The principle of convocation—coming together with a shared purpose—supports this unity so that the watching world might see God’s power and love in a collective testimony.

3. Anticipation of Eternity

Old Testament convocations, with their ceremonial and communal focus, prefigure the ultimate meeting of God’s people—an eternal assembly in His presence (Revelation 7:9–10). Present-day convocations at worship services or church gatherings serve as a foretaste of the heavenly congregation that praises God forever.

Historical Observations and Archaeological Insights

Archaeological excavations in the regions of ancient Israel offer insight into community structures and city gates where individuals would gather for religious or civic purposes. Remains of synagogues from the first century and discovered mikvehs (ritual baths) near these sites corroborate the idea of regular, communal gatherings for worship and purification. This aligns with the biblical narrative of convocations, underscoring the historical reliability of scriptural details. Scholars and archaeologists from the early 20th century through modern times, including figures like Sir William Ramsay, have often discovered such artifacts lending further historical credibility to the scriptural accounts.

Practical and Spiritual Application

1. Regular Corporate Worship

Convocation calls us to prioritize community worship. In a fast-paced era, setting aside time for gathering with others—whether weekly Sabbath or Sunday services—reflects obedience to God’s pattern of restorative, communal reverence.

2. Edification and Encouragement

Paul’s instructions about orderly worship services (1 Corinthians 14:26–33) underscore that believers are to come together not only for their own edification but to build up one another. This principle mirrors the Old Testament emphasis on drawing near to God and blessing each other as participants in a covenant community.

3. Remembrance of God’s Acts

As Israel remembered the Exodus during its convocations, the New Testament church recalls Christ’s death and resurrection. This recollection of pivotal redemptive events exemplifies the ongoing importance of gathering to keep our focus on God’s mighty acts. Early church tradition, supported by historic church fathers such as Ignatius of Antioch and Justin Martyr, harmonizes consistently with the biblical practice of frequent assemblies.

Contemporary Relevance

Even as modern-day believers gather in church buildings, home groups, or at large conferences, the principle of convocation remains relevant: corporate worship cultivates reverence, fosters unity, and points participants to God’s redemptive storyline. Whether commemorating the Lord’s Supper, celebrating significant calendar feasts for historical reflection, or simply studying Scripture together, believers worldwide continue to fulfill the biblical idea of convocation.

In scientific and academic milieus, the willingness of certain communities to gather—be it for worship or research discussions—sometimes brings skepticism. However, community-based examinations of textual evidence (like comparing thousands of biblical manuscripts, early papyri, and the broader archaeological record) highlight the consistent, ancient tradition of believers convening to worship and share God’s truth. Such continuity of assembling affirms, rather than undermines, the historical and communal dimensions of faith.

Summary

“Convocation” in Scripture involves a sacred communal gathering, proclaimed for the purpose of worship, remembrance of God’s acts, and mutual encouragement. In the Old Testament, it most often concerns assemblies related to prescribed feasts and Sabbaths. In the New Testament era, the practice of regularly meeting together for worship continues and reaches its ultimate fulfillment in eternal communion with God.

This biblical model of convocation speaks to all generations, urging all who follow God to come together in holiness and unity. Whether in the days of Moses or in modern congregations worldwide, these gatherings remain a vital expression of covenant identity and hope, pointing us toward the time when all believers will gather before God’s throne in an everlasting holy assembly.