Hebrews 10:24-25
“Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as you see the Day approaching.”
BEREAN.AI
Title: Not Giving Up Meeting Together
Scripture: Hebrews 10:24-25
The writer of Hebrews is wrapping up his argument about why we no longer need animal sacrifices. Jesus has made the final sacrifice for sins. Now he's telling us what we should do in response. These two verses are commands, not suggestions. They tell us how Christians are supposed to live together.
First, we're told to "consider how to stir up one another to love and good works." Notice that word "consider." It means we have to think about this. We have to plan how we'll encourage other Christians. This doesn't happen naturally. Left to ourselves, we'll drift toward selfishness. So we need intentional strategies to help each other grow in love and obedience.
The next command is "not neglecting to meet together." Many Christians treat Sunday worship like an optional activity. If nothing else is going on, maybe they'll show up. But Hebrews says that's sin. When you skip church, you're disobeying a direct command from God. You're also hurting the people who need your encouragement.
The author gives a reason for this command. Some Christians were "neglecting to meet together" because they were discouraged. They faced persecution and wanted to give up. The solution wasn't less church, but more church. We need each other most when following Jesus gets hard. Your presence at church might be what keeps another believer from falling away.
These verses show us that Christianity isn't a solo project. You can't follow Jesus alone. You need other believers, and they need you. When you're absent, the whole body suffers. Your gifts, your prayers, your encouragement, your presence matters more than you think.
This applies to more than Sunday worship. It includes small groups, Bible studies, and one-on-one meetings. Any time believers gather around God's Word, we're obeying this command. The point isn't just showing up. It's actively spurring each other toward love and good works. Ask yourself: Who did I encourage last week? Who did I help love Jesus better?
Prayer: Lord, forgive us for treating church like an optional activity. Help us see how much we need other believers, and how much they need us. Make us intentional about encouraging fellow Christians. Give us joy in gathering to worship you together. Amen.
