Christian Community

What I love about the generation of students that are currently in high school and middle school

Culture Check

Ancient Context

Hebrews 10:24–29 ESV

24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. 26 For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries. 28 Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses. 29 How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?

Three Reasons to meet with the local body of believers

Encouragement (v.24-25)

Encouragement Given

To love and good works

Attendance is not enough

Ex. Small Church

Encouragement Received

Danger: Habit of Some

Ex.

Looks forward to the final gathering (v.25)

Hebrews 10:25 ESV

25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Reflects a real faith (v.26-29)

Hebrews 10:26–29 ESV

26 For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries. 28 Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses. 29 How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?

Conclusion:

Summary of Content (3 Reasons to meet with the local body of believers)

Purpose of Encourage

Reflection of Heaven

Shows true faith

I think that it is clear today that if it applied to the ancient Christian context, it applies to ours even more so.

It is likely that many of you today do not understand the importance of gathering in a local church, and prioritizing fellowship with other believers.

Does not mean:

All church events are necessary

Missing a Sunday makes you go to hell

Does mean

Church events should be prioritized especially Sunday gathering

It is likely that if you do not make the gathering of believers a priority, you are not a Christian.

It is hard to see a passage be so severe in a warning of neglecting the gathering of believers.

If you are a Christian, you will make sacrifices in order to be a part of the local church.