Do Not Forsake the Assembly
Do Not Forsake the Assembly
Hebrews 10:25, 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.
The Greek word for forsaken in the Strong’s Concordance is “egkataleipō”; meaning to abandon, desert or to leave behind. The Greek word for assembling in the Strong’s Concordance is “episynagōgē”, which means a gathering together in one place; a complete collection. How can we become one body if we abandon the gathering of ourselves in one place? We’ll be an incomplete collection of people (some of whom will be left behind) if we forsake assembling together. As the days of Jesus’ return seem to draw nearer, it is imperative that the body of Christ be on one accord. Lest we forget that Christ is returning “That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish” (Ephesians 5:27). I don’t know about you, but I can’t fathom a unified, glorified church, that never assembles.
Consider these Three benefits of assembling in one place:
1. We are following the commandment of God. God commanded us to remember the Sabbath and keep it holy by gathering and worshipping together (Exodus 20:8–11). As we gather in worship, we also give the Holy Spirit the opportunity to develop His fruit in us (Galatians 5:22-23), enabling us to become better disciples of Christ.
2.We are strengthened and encouraged. Revelation 12:11 tells us that our testimonies have power that help others overcome. While Proverbs 27:17 says that “As iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend”. There’s no better place than in the gathering of believers who can pray, provide wise counsel, uplift you through adversity, and rejoice or mourn with you when you need it most (Romans 12:15).
3.We are building up the church. The purpose of the church is to disciple Christians who learn of and become more like Jesus. We do this by serving, helping to grow, and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. According to Ephesians 4:16, every member must do their part by effectively working together, in effort to build the church. This is impossible if we never assemble together. In order to feel a part of something, we must each do our part.
Elder Talesha Simpson
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