The Bible has clear instructions that detail ‘how’ faithful assemblies are to meet (1 Corinthians 11-14). Unfortunately, very few local churches have followed the Bible, even while proclaiming they follow the Bible for “everything in faith and practice”. The objective is to follow the Biblical pattern when the entire church assemblies together. The Biblical model for the assembly ‘service’ is Spirit-designed to permit wide participation, each according to call and giftedness. The Holy Spirit’s model avoids the one-man-show and helps manage the detestable favoritism that is so widespread in local churches today. This model of church assemblies requires self-control and a high level of spiritual maturity.
The Bible is clear, even including a serious warning: “If anyone thinks he is a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord’s commandment. But if anyone remains ignorant about this, he is ignored by God.” (1 Corinthians 14:37–38, LSB)
What is the outcome then, brothers? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has a translation. Let all things be done for edification. If anyone speaks in a tongue, it should be by two or at the most three, and each in turn, and one must translate; but if there is no translator, he must keep silent in the church, and let him speak to himself and to God.
And let two or three prophets speak, and let the others pass judgment. But if a revelation is made to another who is seated, the first one must keep silent. For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all may be exhorted. And the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets; for God is not a God of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.
The women are to keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak, but are to subject themselves, just as the Law also says. But if they desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home, for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in church.
Was it from you that the word of God first went forth? Or has it arrived to you only? If anyone thinks he is a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord’s commandment. But if anyone remains ignorant about this, he is ignored by God. Therefore, my brothers, earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak in tongues. But all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner.”
(1 Corinthians 14:26–40, LSB)