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.

Not {G3361} forsaking {G1459} the assembling {G1997} of ourselves {G1438} together {G1997}, as {G2531} the manner {G1485} of some {G5100} is; but {G235} exhorting {G3870} one another: and {G2532} so much {G5118} the more {G3123}, as {G3745} ye see {G991} the day {G2250} approaching {G1448}.

not neglecting our own congregational meetings, as some have made a practice of doing, but, rather, encouraging each other.

And let us do this all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as ye see the day drawing nigh.

Hebrews 10:25 offers a powerful and timeless exhortation to believers regarding the importance of Christian community and mutual encouragement, especially as the world nears the return of Christ.

Context

This verse is part of a crucial section in the Book of Hebrews (chapters 10-12) that shifts from theological exposition to practical application. Having meticulously established the superiority of Christ's sacrifice over the Old Covenant system, the author now urges his readers to live out their faith with perseverance and confidence. Specifically, verses 19-24 lay the groundwork by encouraging believers to draw near to God with full assurance, hold fast to their hope, and consider how to stir up one another to love and good works. Hebrews 10:25 then provides a primary means by which this mutual encouragement can occur: through consistent, collective gathering.

The original audience was likely Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and temptation to abandon their faith and return to the perceived security of Judaism. In such an environment, the temptation to isolate oneself from the Christian community would have been strong, making the author's warning against "forsaking the assembling of ourselves together" particularly relevant and urgent.

Key Themes

  • The Imperative of Christian Fellowship: The verse directly commands believers not to neglect gathering together. This emphasizes that communal worship, teaching, and support are not optional but essential for spiritual health and perseverance. It highlights the church as a vital spiritual family.
  • Mutual Exhortation and Encouragement: The purpose of assembling is not merely passive attendance but active engagement in "exhorting one another." This involves comforting, challenging, warning, and building up fellow believers in their faith, helping them to persevere through trials and grow in Christ.
  • Urgency in Light of the Approaching Day: The phrase "as ye see the day approaching" adds a critical layer of urgency. "The day" most commonly refers to the Day of the Lord, which encompasses Christ's second coming, the final judgment, and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. As these climactic events draw nearer, the need for mutual support and spiritual strengthening within the community becomes even more critical.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Assembling" (Greek: episynagōgē): This word signifies a formal, deliberate gathering, a coming together. It's related to the term "synagogue," indicating a regular, purposeful meeting for worship and instruction. It underscores the idea of the church as a distinct assembly of God's people, not just a loose collection of individuals.
  • "Exhorting" (Greek: parakaleō): This rich verb means to call alongside, to comfort, encourage, appeal, or urge. It implies an active, supportive, and sometimes challenging interaction designed to strengthen faith and promote godly living. It's the same root word from which Paraclete (the Helper/Comforter, often referring to the Holy Spirit) is derived, highlighting the Spirit's role in empowering believers to minister to one another.

Practical Application

Hebrews 10:25 remains profoundly relevant for believers today:

  • Prioritize Corporate Worship: In an age of increasing individualism and digital connection, this verse reminds us that there is no substitute for physical presence in the gathered assembly of believers. It's where we receive corporate teaching, partake in sacraments, and engage in communal worship.
  • Be an Active Participant: The call to "exhort one another" means our presence in church should be active, not passive. We are called to minister to others through encouragement, prayer, fellowship, and service, embodying the truth that the church is the body of Christ, where each part contributes to the whole.
  • Live with Urgency: The awareness of Christ's imminent return should motivate us to be more committed to our faith and to one another. As global events unfold, the "day approaching" serves as a powerful incentive to deepen our fellowship and spiritual readiness, standing firm together against the challenges of the world.

This verse serves as a timeless reminder that Christian faith is not meant to be lived in isolation. We are called into a community where we can support, strengthen, and spur one another on towards love and good works, especially as we anticipate the glorious return of our Lord.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Acts 2:42

    ¶ And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

  • Matthew 18:20

    For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:11

    ¶ Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

  • Hebrews 3:13

    But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

  • Hebrews 10:24

    And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

  • 1 Corinthians 5:4

    In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:18

    Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
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