Importance of the Assembly

“Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 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” (Hebrews 10:22-25).

I cannot overstate the importance of the Lord’s Day assembly. Most students of the Bible are quick to point out that Sunday worship was a vital part of New Testament Christianity. Today, however, the importance, purpose, and benefits of the Lord’s Day assembly are ignored or forgotten by many. The passage from Hebrews 10 offers several insights into the value of Sunday worship.

First, the assembly affords us an opportunity to draw nearer to God (Hebrews 10: 22). In worship God speaks to us through His word, and we speak to Him in prayer. Worship should help us feel the nearness of God. Sometimes someone can be heard to say, “I didn’t get anything out of worship today.” When that happens, we can be certain it was because they did not put anything into their worship.

Second, the assembly should motivate us to steadfast service in the kingdom (Hebrews 10:23). Our assemblies should be times when we are challenged and motivated to persevere. The devil is going to use every weapon in his arsenal to discourage us and destroy our faith. But God has promised victory to the faithful. Worship should be upbeat, positive, and instructive that we might be prepared to go out into the world and be a light for Jesus.

Third, the assembly enables us to offer love and encouragement to one another (Hebrews 10:24). Jesus described love as the “badge” of discipleship. The highlight of every Christian’s week should be the assembly with the saints. There should be no greater joy than that afforded Christians when they come together to worship the King.

Fourth, the assembly fulfills a divine command (Hebrews 10:25). It is not optional. One cannot love God and disregard His demands. God does not need our assembly, but we do!

Fifth, it is a time of remembering. Each Lord’s Day the early church came together to observe the Lord’s Supper and remember the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus (Acts 20:7). We need this weekly reminder of our debt and His sacrifice.

Finally, the assembly helps us keep our focus on Christ, the King, and His coming. Each time we assemble we are reminded that we are spiritual creatures. We are reminded that we are mortal beings. We are reminded that judgment awaits. And, we are reminded that there is hope only in Christ.