Introduction
   We had some questions that came in from someone who was ready to establish an assembly. We’ll cover these in this article.
   We also talked with another individual who is planning and already working on establishing a congregation. He had even named it, and there are others in the past who have desired to start their own assemblies.
   Before continuing, it should be mentioned that Scripturally we find it should be elders in the body of Messiah establishing assemblies.
   In the order of headship, and other prerequisites, notably found in 1st Timothy and Titus, we receive instruction today. Part of what have become the Pastoral Epistles is a definitive guideline along with other Scriptures.
   Ideally, as part of the body of Messiah we should all be working toward the same goal, unlike those at the Tower of Babel, as mentioned in Genesis chapter 11, they wanted to make a name for themselves. We are to lift up Yahweh’s Name and His Son’s Name and Their ways. Hence, that is one reason the name of the assembly here is called Yahweh’s Assembly in Yahshua.

Working with Others
   There is an advantage in working with an established assembly, since everything has been already put in a proper and orderly manner (1 Cor. 14:40). Bylaws, statement of faith, documents, members, etc., and established leaders with wisdom will help new leaders along the correct path.
   However, given situations as they are, brethren can meet together wherever they find others of like mind (Matt. 18:20). In some cases, it is home fellowships, because there is no other assembly nearby.
   In such cases, Yahweh still provides, especially with the technology we have today. Live service broadcasts, DVDs, CDs, are all a help is such situations.
   Then, when the sojourning feasts start in the Spring, traveling to a feast site in which Yahweh’s Name has been placed (Deut. 16:5-6) is advantageous, and, in fact, commanded. These sojourning feasts are Days of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Weeks and Feast of Tabernacles (Exo. 23:14-17). For a more detailed look at these and other Appointed Times of Yahweh, please read the in-depth booklet called Biblical Holy Days.

Who Are We?
   We know there will be large, well established assemblies at the end of the age as there was in the 1st Century. One of the questions came in asking, “What are we to call ourselves?” To answer it, we have to get past some of the inappropriate language of the King James Version.
   For example, let’s take a look at Revelation 2:7 KJV (unedited) He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
   The wording “churches” and also “God” are inappropriate; “God” for the reason that Scripture identifies the word as an actual proper noun for a deity called “God” meaning Fortune. Scripture is clear that we are not to worship Yahweh with pagan ways or names (Exo. 23:13; Josh. 23:7; Psa. 16:4). Hence, we stay clear of calling Him by pagan names often thought of as mere titles.
   In the Messiah’s time there were synagogues. As defined here by Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible:

      SYNAGOGUE The place of assembly used primarily for worship by Jewish communities. Gk. synagōgḗ is originally a secular term denoting a “group of people” or a “collection of things.” There is no clear reference to the synagogue in the OT. The word is commonplace in the NT, where it refers to an actual building.

   Interestingly enough, “church” is the other word that seems to have an innocent meaning of a building. But, in the Word of Yahweh, the body of Messiah is referred to as the ecclesia or “called out ones,” essentially, an “assembly” of believers. More on this shortly.
   Let’s look at Revelation 2:7 again, but this time another more accurate translation from The Scriptures, published by the Institute For Scripture Research (South Africa), which corrects the wording. TS (unedited) He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies. To him who overcomes I shall give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of Elohim.
   Here we see the word “churches” correctly given as “assemblies.” And of course, a more appropriate title going back to the original for Yahweh, i.e., “Elohim” meaning “Mighty One” here in context.
   Considering why “church” is also inappropriate we can read the following excerpt out of one of our booklets called What Happened to Christianity? under the subtitle Unscriptural Teachings Flourish:

      That the pagan temples were turned into churches or monasteries explains the heathen derivation of the word “church” used in the King James and other Bibles. The Greek word ekklesia literally means “the called-out ones,” which carries the same meaning as the Hebrew “kahal.” Ekklesia refers to a body of people, not a building. The word “church” is a poor translation of ekklesia. Church refers to the building, coming to us through the Anglo-Saxon circe. Circe was the Greek goddess who turned men into swine. In Scottish the word is kirk, relating to the Hebrew kikkar, meaning a circuit or disc — the sun! The ancient link to sun worship (on Sun-day) is undeniable.

   While some may accuse us of semantics or inappropriate word play, there are very good reasons why we speak and write the way we do. If we are to be a clean people and worship Yahweh in the way He wants to be worshiped, then we’ll conform and submit to His Word and His Spirit.

Other Questions
   Q. What name do we put on the deed for the ownership of the land? (a family name? A name of the assembly?).
   A. If there is only a handful of brethren and it is on your property, then it might be best to have it in your personal name until there are enough brethren to have a different (and larger) location.
   If there is already a large number of brethren, and you are willing to donate by subdividing the land, then the name of the group (to be decided upon, by the group) should be used.
   Many overseas groups will choose to align themselves with an established group with established doctrines that are thoroughly explained and proven to be true from Scripture. This helps prevent false doctrines from forming or being promoted.

   Q. If it is the name of the assembly then who owns it? Trustees? Congregation?
   A. 1 Timothy and Titus are outlines for the leaders of a congregation, (that is, elders and deacons) and they would be placed in position and approved by the members to oversee operations are done in a proper and orderly manner.
   Likewise, they can also be removed by said members. A Board of Directors is not to be run by one man, but collectively men (not women) make decisions to help guide and direct the assembly both physically (deacons) and spiritually (elders). However, if board members get out of line with Scripture, and need to be removed, then that can and should be done according to the bylaws. There should be a Board of Trustees, if the assembly fails for any reason, they would then typically have legal authority by the governing authorities to dispose of property, accounts, etc.
   Many small groups of at least 3 or more will typically meet in a home or neutral location for Bible studies or other types of Sabbath meetings. This can be done without establishing a name for the group. As a reminder, from what we see in the Pastoral Epistles and overall Scripture, only anointed elders are to be establishing assemblies which might function like a synagogue. Q. Where do we go to have the documents done up correctly?
   A. If everything is in order, then it’s just a matter of paperwork. There is to be at least an overseeing elder (ideally, there is to be more than just one). Hopefully, there are enough members to help with the work (some being able to be placed as deacons). There should be enough to have legal right to benefit from the government and to help expedite further growth and outreach of Yahweh’s Word.
   For example, here in America, we receive tremendous help through tax relief. The members are also able to take tax write-offs from their contributions to the work. It’s a win-win situation for Yahweh’s work and His people.
   Honoring the King and the laws of the land are difficult for some who feel that we are somehow submitting to the “Beast” power if we submit to governmental legal policies set in place. Yet, they are ignoring what was inspired to be written by both Apostles’ Peter and Paul who were clearly in pagan societies. The most evident one is the Roman Empire:
   Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for Yahweh's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of Yahweh, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of Yahweh. Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear Yahweh. Honour the king, 1 Peter 2:13-17 ASV.
   Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from Elohim, and those which exist are established by Elohim. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of Elohim; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for he is a minister of Elohim to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword for nothing; for he is a minister of Elohim, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of Elohim, devoting themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor, Romans 13:1–7 NASB.
   In the United States, when we did the paperwork for the assembly, we were automatically given 501(c)3 status. It has been a blessing and not a curse, and it also has allowed us to be good stewards with Yahweh’s work.
   However, it has been pointed out that since we are 501(c)3 status, we are now somehow going to be ruled and told how to preach and teach. So far, that has not happened. If it does, we will obey Yahweh rather than man (Acts 5:29), as the prophet Daniel and others have done in the past. Read our free in-depth booklet entitled Honour The King for more information.

Yahweh's Assembly
   In our Quick Bible Verses (QBV) under the section (Names: Our name?) We have as follows:

         Proverbs 10:29; Acts 18:25 "The way of Yahweh"
         Matthew 7:14 "The Way" is narrow
         John 14:6 Yahshua declares He is the Way
         Acts 9:2 Followers of the way
         Acts 11:26 First time called Messianic
         Acts 16:17 "The way of salvation"
         Acts 18:26 "The way of Elohim"
         Acts 24:1-9 Called "Sect of Nazarenes"

   We failed to add one other identifying name. That is, “Yahweh's Assembly” or “Assembly of Elohim,” as we find numerous references to in the New Testament. Even in The Scriptures we find reference to a called-out people to which we see a parallel today.
   In Acts 7:38 KJV (unedited), it says:
   This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sinai, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us:
   In Acts 7:38 TS (unedited), it says:
   This is he who was in the assembly in the wilderness with the Messenger who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our fathers, who received the living Words to give to us.
   Here, again, we have the correct and more accurate word meaning a called-out people, not a building or an adopted pagan name.
   The other interesting thing here is: Stephen, who is speaking and who is saying the living words presented by Moses to the people were handed down to “us,” indicating they are NOT somehow done away with, but as words from Yahweh are, in fact, to be obeyed.
   In the New Testament, however, there is a change in the law and the structure of the Temple, for those in Messiah, accepting of His sacrifice. Other laws specific to war or civil matters have to be considered in the governing laws we find ourselves in today, though, the 10 Commandments and other eternal principles and laws apply and do not break current laws of the land.

Head of the Body
   Yahshua is the head of the body, so if we are scattered abroad, which we are, then we are still under Yahshua and Yahweh is over Yahshua. The point is, we are one in purpose, goals and aspirations, following in the Master’s footsteps as He followed in His Father’s ways.
   And He is the Head of the body, the assembly, Who is the beginning, the first-born from the dead, that He might become the One Who is first in all, Colossians 1:18 TS.
   Paul elaborated these things to Timothy in speaking on how an assembly should function.
   If I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in Yahweh’s household, which is the assembly of the living Elohim, the pillar and foundation of the truth, 1 Timothy 3:15 NIV.
   Paul had just written about elders and deacons regarding what their requirements are so the functioning of an assembly can be good and healthy, providing a good report in the community, uplifting Yahweh and His Son and Their ways of life to the world.
   For I am the least of the emissaries, who am not worthy to be called an emissary, because I persecuted the assembly of Elohim, 1 Corinthians 15:9 TS.
   Emissary is translated as “apostle” in other translations, which is fine. But we do understand that the Scriptural definition of an apostle is one who is sent and has seen the risen Messiah. The Apostle Paul fits those requirements, so anyone calling themselves an apostle today is inappropriate, as we have not seen the risen Messiah and, no doubt, won’t until He returns at the second coming.

Identifying Attributes
   Identifying those in Yahweh's Assembly is pretty easy. The qualifications are clearly laid out for us. As Paul addressed in his letter to those in Corinth, we find him addressing the members as those who are called saints.
   To the assembly of Elohim that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Messiah Yahshua, called saints, with all those calling upon the Name of our Master Yahshua Messiah in every place — both theirs and ours, 1 Corinthians 1:2 YLT.
   To call upon Yahshua is a bit of a Hebrew idiom or way of saying and confirming we are acknowledging Him and His sacrifice in our lives.
   The same phrase is used in Acts when speaking of those being baptized. It has been asked if we are actually to pray to Yahshua, but Yahshua’s own words are clear. We are to worship Yahweh and Him only. Yahshua is our High Priest, He is NOT the Father. We do NOT pray to the High Priest, but we do go through Him to the Father.
   Paul is addressing the saints as the Assembly of Elohim in the verse. Elohim can be plural, which is another reason we are called Yahweh’s Assembly in Yahshua. A very fitting designation or name, lifting up Yahweh and Yahshua’s Names.
   But Paul also calls the assembly members, Saints. In identifying who are in Yahweh's Assembly, we can turn to Revelation for a revealing answer:
   Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of Elohim and their faith in Yahshua, Revelation 14:12 ESV (see also Acts 20:21; Rev. 12:17).
   Saints are defined as commandment keepers, having their faith in the Salvation Yahweh provides in His Son.
   Truly, being established is what Yahweh and Yahshua are doing for us and others around the world. Yet, we are sojourning and not putting roots down. Rather, we are going about our Father’s business until Yahshua returns to establish the Kingdom of Yahweh.
   We are forerunners of that kingdom, looking forward to its establishment. In the meantime, we gather together, the best we can, to worship Yahweh and to share the undefiled Word as witnesses to the world.
   As the body of Messiah reaches out, we are described as light and salt on the earth. Let’s do our best to align ourselves in Yahweh’s Spirit and be found promoting and living in His Truth, because this is what He is looking for (John 4:23-24).
   And coming to Him as to a living stone which has been rejected by men, but is choice and precious in the sight of Elohim, you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to Elohim through Yahshua Messiah, 1 Peter 2:4-5 NASB. Skipping down to verses 9-10: You are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR Elohim’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him Who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF ELOHIM; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY, 1 Peter 2: 9-10 NASB.
   In the end, it’s not so much what we are called. Rather, it is what attributes we are known by.