The Power of Gathering Together
This Message From : Ron Renner
In Hebrews 10:24-25, we find powerful guidance about why Christians should gather together. These verses aren’t just about church attendance – they reveal something much deeper about our spiritual journey and how we support one another.
Why Do We Gather as Christians?
Have you ever asked yourself why you attend church? Is it out of obligation, duty, expectation, or love for the Lord? The writer of Hebrews gives us insight into the purpose of our gatherings.
The scripture says: “Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”
What Does It Mean to “Stimulate” One Another?
The word “stimulate” in this passage comes from a Greek word (parazoxmos) that literally means “to sharpen” or even “to jab.” It’s a strong word that suggests we are meant to have a significant impact on each other when we gather.
Think about it like this – sometimes we need a gentle nudge to wake us up spiritually. Just as someone might jab you when you’re falling asleep, our fellowship should keep us spiritually alert and engaged.
What Are We Stimulating Each Other Toward?
The scripture is clear – we gather to stimulate one another “to love and to do good deeds.” These are action words. Christianity isn’t passive; it’s active. When we gather, we should be encouraging each other toward:
Love – Not just an emotion, but an action. Loving others unconditionally, even when we disagree, when personalities clash, or when people seem unlovable. This love comes from our new nature in Christ.
Good Deeds – Putting our faith into action. Being salt and light in a dark world. Serving others selflessly, showing charity, hospitality, and compassion.
Why Is Regular Gathering So Important?
The writer warns against “forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some.” Even in biblical times, some believers had gotten out of the habit of gathering. Today, church attendance continues to decline, with many churches seeing 10-20% fewer people on any given Sunday.
The Difference Between “Have To” and “Want To”
When it comes to gathering with other believers, our attitude makes all the difference:
A habit is something you want to do or something you have to do”Have to” finds a way out”Want to” finds a way in
Very few people do what they “have to do” very long or very well. The key is developing a desire to gather with other believers because you want to, not because you feel obligated.
How Can We Encourage One Another?
The passage emphasizes encouraging one another, “and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” True encouragement goes far beyond a casual “like” button or saying “I’ll pray for you.”
Real encouragement means:
Sending a card to someone
Making a phone call
Speaking to someone you don’t know
Showing up at a funeral
Patting someone on the back
Praying WITH people, not just FOR them
Encouragement literally means to “put courage in” someone. It’s about instilling courage in others – lifting them up, letting them know you’re there for them, praying for them, and supporting them.
Why Is This Increasingly Important?
The writer concludes by saying we should do this “all the more as you see the day drawing near.” This refers to the day of the Lord – the second coming of Christ.
While we don’t know the exact time, many believe we are in the season where the Lord could soon return. Jesus instructed us to “watch and be ready” for His return.
Life Application
As you reflect on this message about gathering and encouraging one another, consider these questions:
Why do I attend church? Is it out of obligation or genuine desire?
How am I encouraging others in my faith community? Am I actively stimulating others toward love and good deeds?
What habits am I forming? Am I developing good habits of gathering with believers, or am I falling into the habit of forsaking assembly?
Who needs my encouragement this week? Is there someone I could call, visit, or pray with (not just for)?
This week, challenge yourself to be intentional about encouraging at least one person in your faith community. Don’t just say you’ll pray for them – pray with them. Don’t just attend church – actively look for ways to stimulate others toward love and good deeds. Remember that our gatherings aren’t just about what we receive, but what we give to others through our presence and encouragement.