The care of believers for one another shines brightly in the assemblies of the saints. The writer to Hebrew Christians, who were evidently considering going back to serve God under the Law of Moses, gave specific directions concerning their assemblies. “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Christian assemblies stir up love and good works through singing, which Paul saw as a great means of teaching. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord” (Colossians 3:16). Christ’s followers can also be stirred to confess their trespasses while gathered together. Others of like faith can then pray for each other (James 5:16). Gathering around the Lord’s Table is a wonderful reminder of the unity Christ’s followers have in His one spiritual body, the church (1 Corinthians 10:16-17). Hearing messages from God’s Word likewise challenges and provokes Christian growth.
God’s Son came to earth focused on man’s need to conquer death (Philippians 2:6-8). His followers are enjoined to follow His example by focusing on one another. Jesus’ disciples should serve others. Christians should demonstrate love for one another as Jesus demonstrated love for us. Forgiveness is a natural outflow of love within the body, the church.
Members of Christ’s body should exhibit care for their brethren. Those who love others will bear with them even though they make slow progress toward the goal or repeatedly fall. Members of Christ’s body should exhibit care for their brethren. They should similarly provoke each other through faithfully attending the assemblies of the saints.
The greatest goal of every Christian should be to spend eternity with each brother with whom he comes in contact, making “the Day” all the more special. Let us determine to do all that we can to assemble as a whole family in heaven.
