Hebrews 10:19-25
Is church attendance really that important? Obviously, you would expect me to respond with an emphatic ‘Yes.’ Why, though? What supports the typical response of pastors? Is it simply a numbers game? (Get as many to attend for bragging rights and financial support.) Is it an issue of control? Is it to disrupt the free time that families and individuals have available? If these form the basis for the importance of church attendance, then forget church attendance altogether.
‘Don’t forsake the assembling of yourselves together,’ is quickly quoted during most conversations regarding this topic. Have you ever considered, however, the greater context of this passage? Though this is Scripture, if we draw only from these words we are left with a dry command. There is so much more to this passage.
The author of Hebrews has just explained the tremendous news that Jesus was the perfect sacrifice. He is the perfect High Priest. He established a perfect new covenant. In light of these truths, certain things follow:
You see, this passage is not concerned solely with the question of church attendance. It’s focused upon what we do as a result of Christ’s ministry in our lives. We are to pursue God while embracing His truth and encouraging His people. We must not forget the final words of verse 25 either. It says, ‘and all the more as you see the day drawing near.’ As the day of the Lord approaches, we are to become more and more devoted to these efforts.
Is church attendance really that important? Yes it is. Please honor Christ; please pursue God; please encourage others, through faithful church participation. Oh, what a joy!
Doug Richey, Pastor-Teacher
Copyright 2008, Doug Richey
112 Pisgah Drive, Excelsior Springs, MO 64024, USA
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