Hebrews 10:19-25
Introduction:
1. Many people misunderstand the place of the assembly in Christian life.
2. Before pondering worship acts, we should grasp the assembly’s true essence.
3. We will consider the vertical and horizontal aspects of the assembly.
Discussion:
I. The Centrality of the Assembly
A. The basic meaning of ekklesia (English Church) is an assembly or congregation (cf. Acts 7:38; 19:32, 39-40; 1 Corinthians 11:18; 14:19, 34-35).
B. Any assembly/congregation is called together by an authority for a specific purpose.
C. The ekklesia of Christ is unique, assembled at His call, on His authority, for His purposes (Matthew 16:18; Hebrews 12:18-24; 1 Peter 2:9-10).
D. The NT repeatedly emphasizes the necessity of Christians assembling to worship (Acts 20:7ff; 1 Corinthians 11:17-22; 14:19; 23, 34-35; Hebrews 10:19-25).
II. The Blessed Assembly: Drawing Near to God
A. Hebrews 10:19-23 vividly describes the blessedness of the assembly.
B. We have confidence to approach the Father (vv. 19-22; 4:14-16).
C. We may draw near with consciences clear through Christ (vs. 23; 7:19).
D. Hebrews 12:18-24 shows how much greater are the blessings of our assembly than that of the time of Moses.
E. This is the vertical aspect of the assembly, directed to God.
III. The Blessed Assembly: Considering One Another
A. The assembly also has a horizontal emphasis, directed to one another.
B. In Hebrews 10:24-25, we see the danger forsaking the assembly poses to faithfulness.
C. The commandment to assemble is not merely about commandment keeping, but it is about strengthening one another.
D. How can we stir one another to good works if we are not together?
E. A disassembled assembly is a misnomer.
F. On these bases, the Hebrews writer gives his dire warning against neglecting the assembly.
Conclusion:
1. This view of the assembly should enable us to offer proper worship (John 4:24).
2. Sadly, many people view the assembly of the saints as a burden, not a blessing.
3. Like all His commandments, this is for our good (Deuteronomy 6:24; Hebrews 12:10).
Further Food for Thought
1. How does the above square with your view of the assemblies of the church?
2. Did anything in this discussion change your view of the assemblies of the church?
3. How can we collectively help one another value the assemblies more?