CONSIDERING AND ENCOURAGING ONE ANOTHER

This year's church newsletters have emphasised the significance of the "one another" teachings in Scripture and their role in fostering a vibrant, healthy local church. These principles are founded on the understanding that God designed the church as a cohesive and mutually dependent community, in which members are committed to nurturing one another spiritually.

This article examines the concept of "one another" as presented in Hebrews 10:24–25. It highlights the responsibility of believers to provide mutual support during challenging and overwhelming life circumstances. The absence of such support may result in individuals abandoning their loyalty to the Lord Jesus Christ, the Faith, and the local church.

The book of Hebrews was addressed to Jews who accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior, publicly expressed commitment to Christ, and adopted his teachings. In doing so, they ceased practicing Judaism.

Within Judaism, Jews considered followers of Jesus Christ as defectors from God and the faith and participants in a cult called “The Way” (Acts 9:2; 11:26).  In their minds, it was necessary to confront the “defectors” so that they would repent from their “sin,” return to Judaism, and be in right relationship with God.  Those refusing to return to Judaism were excommunicated.

Excommunication was severe, carrying significant consequences. Followers of Christ were entirely separated from their families and the broader Jewish community, effectively regarded as deceased. Additionally, Hebrews 10:32-34 outlines three further repercussions for individuals who abandoned the faith: public humiliation, imprisonment, and confiscation of property.

Initially, the defectors welcomed suffering and stayed faithful to Christ, believing their sacrifices would lead to eternal reward (Hebrews 10:34).  As time passed and adversity intensified, some loyal followers of Christ lost hope. Some individuals renounced their Christian faith, withdrew from their local church communities, and reverted to Judaism in an effort to alleviate their hardships. Others contemplated making similar decisions.

The author of Hebrews emphasized the importance of the community of believers in supporting those experiencing hardship. The local church was the key to perseverance in loyalty to the Lord Jesus Christ.  He encouraged the congregation to "consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds... encouraging one another" (NASB, 1995).

Individuals may face challenges that affect their commitment to their beliefs for various reasons, not just persecution. Hebrews 12:2 states, “Let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us.”

Every believer must be vitally connected to a local church, including membership, so that he or she can support and encourage fellow believers in their life struggles. 

Here are three ways you can “stimulate one another to love and good works.” 

First and foremost, prioritize regular church attendance. Being an active and dedicated member of a local church allows for deeper connections within the body of Christ. Consistent participation provides greater insight into the experiences and challenges faced by others.  You cannot serve those you do not know.

Second, publicly express gratitude and praise to the Lord for His work in your life.  Public praise and gratitude to the Lord encourages others to trust God in their life struggles.  God can do for others what He has done for you.  Psalm 40:2, 3 declares, “He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay, and He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm.  He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; many will see and fear and will trust in the Lord.” 

Third, pray regularly with a person who is struggling in the Christian life.  Coming to God’s throne of grace in times of need results in God’s mercy and help for the struggling believer.

The local church serves as God’s resource for supporting fellow believers through life's challenges. Healthy and vibrant congregations focus on encouraging one another toward love and good works. Are you engaging with a local church and contributing to its well-being?