Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Hebrews 10:25
Is it important to assemble together? I know this is a question which all Christians are facing especially after the Covid Pandemic. There are many who want to enter into debate whether our isolation during this time was right or not, or even if the leadership of our states and country had a right to enforce this measure. However, we spend a lot of useless time arguing when we need to start gathering.
There were some good things that came out of this time. One was the use of technology. People had a variety of speakers they could listen to, and I also benefited from this. Secondly, many tuned in to just understand what was going on. Why would this be happening to us? Third, many took heed of the message of the crucifixion and resurrection and believed. It is that point that I want to consider this morning, for we as believers of God’s Sovereign grace, have opportunity to gather in the harvest.
People don’t understand the reason for assembling together. Even our members wonder why we assemble. With that in mind, I want to give you something to think about. 1. Accountability: All of us need to be accountable. Even the strongest believers amongst us need to be accountable. 2. Growth: anyone can say that they are growing, but it is in the house of God this is truly manifested. Here I am held to the standard of study. Here I am called on to teach and preach. Here, the message is under the watchful eye of the congregation. Here the body of believers can grow stronger. Here, we can tell others of Christ, learn of Him, and learn to be like Him. 3. Strength: we have all heard the story of one twig easily broken while a bundle of sticks can’t be. In similar fashion, even the weakest of us can be surrounded by others thus causing strength. 4. Refreshment: as the word says, “I was glad when they said unto me, let us go up to the house of the Lord. While we may not want to always go, there is real joy in going once we are there. 5. Required: Our Lord did not ask us if we wanted to assemble together. He requires it. Not only for the reasons given, but that we too might grow in Him. Remember this, that Thomas’ own faith was challenged because he did not attend with the others when Jesus appeared, but his faith was secured when he did attend and the Lord called him out.
I also mentioned that there were those that believed the message while listening on line. Instead of letting them try and figure things out on their own (which leads to falsehoods) lets go out and invite them in to hear the word, know God’s people, and teach them to grow. In many ways this enabled the Baptist churches of the 1700s. Men like George Whitefield, Jonathan Edwards and others preached to the salvation of many. Baptists reached out to the newly saved to teach them the truth. Could this be similar time?
We need to be together. I urge you this Sunday to meet with fellow believers and grow up into Christ.
Leave a Reply