Hebrews 10:25

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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.

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 10:25 delivers a vital exhortation to the early Christian community, urging them not to neglect their regular gatherings for worship and mutual encouragement, a practice some were abandoning. Instead, the author emphasizes the critical importance of actively spurring one another on in faith and love, especially as they perceived the "Day of the Lord"—Christ's return and final judgment—drawing nearer. This verse underscores the communal nature of Christian perseverance and the urgency of spiritual readiness in light of eschatological hope.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the hortatory section of Hebrews (chapters 10-12), which transitions from the theological exposition of Christ's superior priesthood and sacrifice (chapters 1-9). Having established the new and living way opened through Christ's blood, the author now calls his readers to respond with faith, perseverance, and practical obedience. Specifically, [Hebrews 10:19-24](/hebrews/10-19-24 "Hebrews 10:19-24 - Exhortation to Draw Near, Hold Fast, and Stir Up") lays the immediate groundwork, encouraging believers to "draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith" (v. 22), "hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering" (v. 23), and "consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works" (v. 24). Hebrews 10:25 then provides the primary means by which this mutual provocation and encouragement is to occur: through consistent, collective gathering. The subsequent verses (e.g., [Hebrews 10:26-31](/hebrews/10-26-31 "Hebrews 10:26-31 - Warning Against Willful Sin")) issue a severe warning against deliberate sin and apostasy, highlighting the dire consequences of turning away from Christ, thereby reinforcing the urgency of communal support to prevent such backsliding.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The original recipients of the Book of Hebrews were likely Jewish Christians living in or near Rome, facing intense social pressure and persecution in the latter half of the first century AD. They were experiencing various forms of affliction, including public ridicule, imprisonment, and confiscation of property, as mentioned in [Hebrews 10:32-34](/hebrews/10-32-34 "Hebrews 10:32-34 - Remembering Past Sufferings"). This hostile environment made the temptation to revert to Judaism, with its established traditions and social acceptance, particularly strong. Returning to Judaism would have meant abandoning their Christian confession and, critically, isolating themselves from the nascent Christian community. The "forsaking the assembling of ourselves together" directly addresses this temptation, as withdrawal from the Christian fellowship would have been a natural consequence of fear, discouragement, or a deliberate return to former religious practices. The author's strong admonition underscores the vital role of the gathered church as a place of spiritual sustenance, mutual support, and corporate identity in a challenging world.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Hebrews. Firstly, it emphasizes **the imperative of Christian fellowship and corporate worship**. The author views the regular gathering of believers not as optional, but as essential for spiritual vitality and perseverance, especially in times of trial. This reinforces the idea that Christian faith is inherently communal, not merely individual. Secondly, it highlights **mutual exhortation and encouragement** as a core function of the gathered church. The purpose of assembling is not passive attendance but active engagement in "exhorting one another," which involves comforting, challenging, and building up fellow believers to stand firm in their faith and grow in Christ. This theme is echoed throughout the New Testament, such as in [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4-5 "Romans 12:4-5 - Many Members, One Body") and [Ephesians 4:11-16](/ephesians/4-11-16 "Ephesians 4:11-16 - Unity in the Body of Christ"). Thirdly, the verse introduces a profound sense of **eschatological urgency**. The phrase "as ye see the day approaching" refers to the [Day of the Lord](/2_peter/3-10 "2 Peter 3:10 - The Day of the Lord"), encompassing Christ's second coming, the final judgment, and the consummation of His kingdom. This impending reality serves as a powerful motivation for steadfastness and intensified communal support, preparing believers for the Lord's return.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **forsaking (Greek, _enkataleípō'_):** From G1459, meaning "to leave behind in some place, i.e. (in a good sense) let remain over, or (in a bad sense) to desert." In this context, it carries the negative connotation of desertion or abandonment. It implies a deliberate act of withdrawing from the community, not merely an occasional absence, but a pattern of neglect that could lead to spiritual isolation and apostasy.
* **assembling (Greek, _episynagōgḗ'_):** From G1997, meaning "a complete collection; especially a Christian meeting (for worship)." This term denotes a deliberate, purposeful gathering, similar to the concept of a synagogue. It emphasizes the formal and intentional nature of the Christian assembly for worship, instruction, and fellowship, distinguishing it from casual social interaction.
* **exhorting (Greek, _parakaléō'_):** From G3870, meaning "to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)." This rich verb encompasses a wide range of meanings: to comfort, encourage, appeal, urge, or warn. It implies an active, supportive, and sometimes challenging interaction designed to strengthen faith, promote godly living, and provide spiritual aid to fellow believers.
* **approaching (Greek, _engízō'_):** From G1448, meaning "to make near, i.e. (reflexively) approach." This verb conveys the sense of drawing near or being at hand. Coupled with "the day" (G2250, _hēméra'_), it signifies the perceived imminence of Christ's return and the final judgment, providing a powerful impetus for the urgent practice of mutual encouragement.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together":** This is a direct command, a negative imperative. It forbids the abandonment or neglect of corporate gatherings of believers. The phrase "of ourselves together" emphasizes the communal and participatory nature of these assemblies, highlighting that believers are to gather as a unified body, not merely as individuals in proximity.
* **"as the manner of some [is]":** This clause reveals that the problem the author addresses was already present among some in the community. Certain individuals or groups were indeed neglecting or abandoning the Christian assemblies, perhaps due to fear of persecution, spiritual apathy, or a desire to return to former ways. This makes the exhortation particularly relevant and urgent for the original readers.
* **"but exhorting [one another]":** This introduces the positive counter-command and the primary purpose of the gathering. Instead of forsaking, believers are to actively engage in mutual exhortation. The word "exhorting" implies a dynamic, supportive, and spiritually edifying interaction, where believers comfort, encourage, challenge, and build each other up in faith and good works.
* **"and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching":** This final clause adds a crucial layer of urgency and motivation. The "day" refers to the Day of the Lord, encompassing Christ's second coming and the final judgment. The perceived nearness of this eschatological event should intensify the commitment to communal gathering and mutual encouragement, as spiritual readiness and perseverance become even more critical in light of the Lord's imminent return.

#### Literary Devices
The author of Hebrews employs several effective literary devices in this verse. **Contrast** is prominent, setting the negative "not forsaking" against the positive "but exhorting," highlighting the desired action over the problematic one. This creates a clear binary choice for the readers. The verse also utilizes **Exhortation**, a direct and powerful call to action, characteristic of the hortatory section of the epistle. The phrase "as ye see the day approaching" functions as a form of **Eschatological Motivation**, leveraging the imminent expectation of Christ's return and final judgment to instill urgency and diligence in the believers' communal life and spiritual walk. Furthermore, the emphasis on "assembling of ourselves together" and "exhorting one another" underscores the **Organic Metaphor** of the church as a living body, where each part contributes to the health and growth of the whole, a concept foundational to New Testament ecclesiology.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 10:25 profoundly underscores the communal nature of Christian faith and the vital role of the gathered church in fostering spiritual perseverance. It teaches that individual spiritual vitality is deeply intertwined with corporate fellowship and mutual accountability. The "assembling of ourselves together" is not merely a social gathering but a sacred space where believers are equipped, encouraged, and held accountable, preventing isolation which can lead to spiritual decline. The call to "exhorting one another" highlights the active responsibility each believer has to contribute to the spiritual well-being of the community, serving as instruments of God's grace and truth. This mutual ministry becomes increasingly crucial as believers navigate the challenges of life and anticipate the Lord's return, emphasizing that collective strength is essential for enduring to the end.

* [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4-5 "Romans 12:4-5 - Many Members, One Body")
* [1 Thessalonians 5:11](/1_thessalonians/5-11 "1 Thessalonians 5:11 - Encourage One Another")
* [Matthew 18:20](/matthew/18-20 "Matthew 18:20 - Where Two or Three Are Gathered")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 10:25 offers a timeless and urgent call for believers today, reminding us that Christian faith is not meant to be lived in isolation. In an increasingly fragmented and individualized society, the temptation to withdraw from corporate worship and fellowship remains strong, whether due to busyness, apathy, or the allure of digital substitutes. This verse challenges us to prioritize our physical presence in the gathered assembly of believers, recognizing it as a divine appointment for spiritual nourishment, instruction, and mutual support. Beyond mere attendance, it calls us to active participation, encouraging us to "exhort one another"—to comfort, challenge, and build up our brothers and sisters in Christ. This active engagement fosters resilience against spiritual complacency and strengthens our collective witness. The "day approaching" serves as a powerful motivator, urging us to live with a heightened sense of spiritual readiness and to deepen our commitment to one another as we anticipate the glorious return of our Lord. Our perseverance is not just individual; it is communal, forged in the crucible of shared faith and mutual encouragement.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my current commitment to corporate worship and Christian fellowship reflect the urgency expressed in Hebrews 10:25?**
* **In what practical ways can I actively "exhort" or encourage other believers within my community this week?**
* **How does the awareness of "the day approaching" impact my daily spiritual disciplines and my engagement with the church?**
* **What temptations or obstacles do I face that might lead me to "forsake the assembling of ourselves together," and how can I overcome them?**

### FAQ
**What does "the assembling of ourselves together" specifically refer to?**

Answer: "The assembling of ourselves together" (Greek: _episynagōgḗ_) refers to the regular, purposeful gathering of Christians for corporate worship, teaching, fellowship, and mutual encouragement. It implies a formal meeting of the church, not just casual social interaction. This practice was foundational to early Christian life, providing a context for the apostles' teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayers, as described in [Acts 2:42](/acts/2-42 "Acts 2:42 - The Fellowship of the Believers"). It's where believers collectively affirm their faith, receive spiritual nourishment, and live out their identity as the body of Christ.

**Why is it so important not to forsake these gatherings?**

Answer: Forsaking these gatherings leads to spiritual isolation, which makes believers vulnerable to discouragement, false teaching, and apostasy. The Christian life is designed to be lived in community, where believers can "provoke unto love and to good works" ([Hebrews 10:24](/hebrews/10-24 "Hebrews 10:24 - Stirring Up Love and Good Works")), bear one another's burdens ([Galatians 6:2](/galatians/6-2 "Galatians 6:2 - Bear One Another's Burdens")), and receive the spiritual gifts and ministries of others ([Ephesians 4:11-16](/ephesians/4-11-16 "Ephesians 4:11-16 - Unity in the Body of Christ")). The gathered church provides accountability, support, and the corporate strength needed to persevere in faith, especially in challenging times.

**What is "the day approaching" and why does it matter?**

Answer: "The day approaching" most commonly refers to the [Day of the Lord](/2_peter/3-10 "2 Peter 3:10 - The Day of the Lord"), which encompasses Christ's second coming, the final judgment, and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. This eschatological reality serves as a powerful motivation for believers to remain steadfast and diligent in their faith. As these climactic events draw nearer, the need for mutual support, spiritual strengthening, and active preparation within the community becomes even more critical, ensuring believers are found ready and faithful when the Lord returns.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 10:25 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. It is precisely because Christ has, "by one offering perfected for ever them that are sanctified" ([Hebrews 10:14](/hebrews/10-14 "Hebrews 10:14 - Christ's One Sacrifice")), that believers now have "boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus" ([Hebrews 10:19](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19 - Boldness to Enter the Holiest")). Our ability to gather in His name, to "draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith" ([Hebrews 10:22](/hebrews/10-22 "Hebrews 10:22 - Draw Near with Full Assurance")), is entirely predicated on His finished work on the cross. The "assembling of ourselves together" is therefore a gathering around Christ, the "great high priest over the house of God" ([Hebrews 10:21](/hebrews/10-21 "Hebrews 10:21 - A Great High Priest")). Furthermore, the call to "exhorting one another" reflects Christ's own ministry as the ultimate **Paraclete** or Comforter, whose Spirit empowers believers to minister grace and truth to each other, building up His body ([Ephesians 4:12](/ephesians/4-12 "Ephesians 4:12 - Equipping the Saints")). The urgency of "the day approaching" is the anticipation of Christ's glorious return, when He will gather His elect ([Matthew 24:31](/matthew/24-31 "Matthew 24:31 - Gathering the Elect")) and fully consummate His kingdom. Thus, our communal gatherings are a foretaste of that eternal assembly, a preparation for His coming, and a living demonstration of the unity we have in Him, the Head of the Church ([Colossians 1:18](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ, the Head of the Body")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

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.