The concept of a "Convention for Counsel" in the biblical context refers to the gathering or assembly of individuals for the purpose of seeking wisdom, guidance, and decision-making in accordance with God's will. This practice is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition, where seeking counsel is often associated with wisdom and discernment.

Biblical Basis

The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of seeking counsel and wisdom from others, particularly from those who are godly and wise. Proverbs 11:14 states, "For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance." This verse underscores the value of collective wisdom and the safety found in seeking advice from multiple sources.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites often gathered for counsel to seek God's direction. For example, in 1 Chronicles 13:1-4 , David consults with his leaders and the assembly of Israel about bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. This demonstrates the practice of convening for counsel to ensure that decisions align with divine purposes.

Role of Elders and Leaders

Elders and leaders play a crucial role in the convention for counsel. In the early church, the apostles and elders gathered to address significant issues, as seen in Acts 15:6 : "So the apostles and elders met to look into this matter." This gathering, known as the Jerusalem Council, was pivotal in resolving doctrinal disputes and setting a precedent for church governance.

The role of elders as counselors is further highlighted in Proverbs 15:22 : "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." Elders, being seasoned in faith and experience, provide valuable insights that contribute to sound decision-making.

Spiritual Discernment

A convention for counsel is not merely a human endeavor but involves spiritual discernment. James 1:5 encourages believers to seek divine wisdom: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." This highlights the necessity of prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit when convening for counsel.

The process of discernment is also evident in the selection of leaders. In Acts 6:3 , the apostles instruct the early church to choose deacons: "Brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom." This selection process involved prayerful consideration and communal agreement.

Practical Application

In contemporary Christian practice, conventions for counsel can take various forms, such as church meetings, synods, or conferences. These gatherings provide opportunities for believers to collectively seek God's will, address challenges, and make decisions that impact the community of faith.

The principle of seeking counsel is applicable not only in church settings but also in personal decision-making. Proverbs 19:20 advises, "Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days." This encourages individuals to seek advice from trusted mentors and fellow believers.

Conclusion

The biblical tradition of convening for counsel emphasizes the importance of collective wisdom, spiritual discernment, and reliance on God’s guidance. Through the counsel of others, believers can navigate complex decisions and align their actions with God’s purposes.Proverbs 15:22
Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.
Nave's Topical Index

Tries to Become a Politician. Fails. Last Act as a Politician. ...
... concern. During the convention, Gen. Wm. Preston ... gone. I knew not which way
it had taken, for our Colonel kept his own counsel. When ...
/.../chapter vii tries to become.htm

The Congregational and Christian Churches.
... Congregational Churches meeting in Detroit, May, 1929, and the General Convention
of the ... same time the duty of the congregations to take counsel together and co ...
/.../the congregational and christian churches.htm

The Life of Mr. Patrick Hamilton.
... imprisonment, he was brought before the arch-bishop and his convention, and there ...
Andrews, primate of Scotland, with the counsel, decree and authority of the ...
/.../howie/biographia scoticana scots worthies/the life of mr patrick.htm

Close of the Colonial Era --The German Churches --The Beginnings ...
... and the General Association of the Congregational pastors of Connecticut met together
by their representatives in annual convention to take counsel over a ...
/.../bacon/a history of american christianity/chapter xii close of the.htm

The Historical and Spiritual Causes of the Death of Christ
... In short, the idea of the living God degenerates into the necessary convention of
an ... after Him." It was the Sadducean High Priest who gave the counsel of death ...
/.../beibitz/gloria crucis/ii the historical and spiritual.htm

The Life of Mr. Andrew Melvil.
... When Mr. Melvil went, with some other ministers, to the convention of estates at ...
ye are all here assembled; but be ye assured, that no counsel taken against ...
/.../howie/biographia scoticana scots worthies/the life of mr andrew.htm

Anti-Romanistic Attitude.
... whole connection they represent, hence are the better enabled to impart their counsel. ...
and changed at pleasure even during the sessions of the same convention. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/bente/american lutheranism/anti-romanistic attitude.htm

The Life of the Honourable Archibald Campbel Marquis of Argyle.
... year 1643, (when he had such an active hand in calling the convention of estates ...
succeeded to good purpose, as long as the king followed his counsel and advice. ...
/.../howie/biographia scoticana scots worthies/the life of the honourable.htm

Knox in the War of the Congregation: the Regent Attacked: Her ...
... sorties; and despite the valour of Arran and Lord James and the counsel of Lethington ...
{165a} More recently they had held a kind of secret convention at Nantes ...
/.../lang/john knox and the reformation/chapter xii knox in the.htm

Jowett -- Apostolic Optimism
... I am very grateful that the counsel of my text lifts its chaste and cheery ... at its
worst, who has digged through the outer walls of convention and respectability ...
/.../various/the worlds great sermons volume 10/jowett apostolic optimism.htm

What is the National Council of Churches? | GotQuestions.org

What is the American Baptist Church? | GotQuestions.org

What are the most common denominations of Christianity? | GotQuestions.org

Convention: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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