“WHY WE GATHER TOGETHER”

24 “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

Hebrews 10:24-25

Some believers prefer following Christ in solo mode, saying that they don't need others “getting in the way” with their relationship with God. But what does the Bible say about being a lone Christian?

In yesterday’s blog, we learned that associating oneself with angry, mean people can result in heartbreaking, regretful consequences.

But how do we look past meanness? If you are on the receiving end of this malevolence, hear me out, and don’t throw the white flag just yet.

Acknowledge your need for a community.

Today’s church looks quite different from what it was two thousand years ago. Back then, they were eager to meet—not once a week, but every day! Today, things look a little bit different. With the emergence of the internet and social media, some Christians prefer staying at home, listening to their favorite megachurch preacher than actually getting themselves involved in a community of believers. They even say, “I can worship on my own.” “I can study the Bible without any help.” “I follow a Bible scholar; I should be fine.” “I don’t need the church.”

But if Jesus wants us to follow Him on our own, then why does the Bible say so much about believers gathering together?

Today’s passage is a motivation for believers to live with confidence and courage in light of their spiritual challenges. It gives a clear warning against falling away from the Christian faith. The writer urges his readers to seriously consider (katanoeō, to fix one’s mind upon) stirring up one another in love and service. To “stir up” means “to provoke.” The writer’s command emphasizes the importance of being with one’s church family for spiritual nourishment and practical service. To miss a gathering is to miss both the opportunity to encourage and be encouraged.

The same can be said of today’s church. When we gather together, ministry is born. There’s always work to be done when people meet. As such, there are always opportunities to serve.

God wants our meetings to be encouraging. As a community, we encourage one another by simply being together, in the spirit of love and truth. Church will not always be convenient, but it’s our spiritual home. We won’t always like everyone, but the church is our family. And if we are part of this household, we’d want to be with the rest of our loved ones. The earlier we figure this out, the better it is for us.

How important is it for you to be with your spiritual family?

Pursue the Savior today!