There is a great post at Participatory Church Gatherings on the freedom of the Spirit. They make the point that "the spirit blows where it wills" (Jn 3:8) is not just for bringing about new birth. The spirit is free to move as it will at all times including when the church gathers together. That is, unless we quench the spirit. A quick look at the context from which we get the term quenching the spirit reveals that Paul is talking about silencing the prophets in the church.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.What do you think? As we re rejoicing, praying, and being thankful in all things should we not also, with the same zeal, give place to the gifts of prophecy and be faithful to test what is said?
(1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 ESV)
Is the Spirit free to blow as it will when you gather with the church? Or is the ministry of the spirit confined to the chosen few and must stay within the parameters set by the predetermined order of worship as written in the bulliten?
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