“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:23-25)
It is strange as to why so many people ignore church these days as we continue to be troubled by the effects of the pandemic. We struggle to cope with political unrest, scientific uncertainty as well as the chaos of a culture that worships at the altar of wokeness. Such chaos is manifested by violence, division, acrimony, and selfishness. Truth is now relative, that is truth and morality are whatever the individual says it is and all of us have to agree even if we think otherwise. Such chaos has disturbed so many that they either turn in on themselves for solace or else try to acceptance, companionship, love, peace, and meaning in various cultural, political, civic and community organizations and Internet groups composed of likeminded individuals, or at least people who will support them and their causes.
But true solace, comfort, meaning, purpose, and acceptance are readily available in the church. This is why the author of Hebrews urges believers to meet together as the church especially in the midst of troubling and violent times. Why? Because the Church is God’s kingdom on earth, the instrument through which He works. Church is where we meet with God in Christ Jesus. Church is where we hear God’s Word, the gospel. Here we are reminded that Jesus alone has made it possible for believers to enter the very presence of God Almighty. He offered Himself as the one perfect sacrifice that satisfied the demands of God’s Law and His justice. There is no need for further offerings.
Those who accept the offering of Christ find that God forgives their sins. They have been dealt with at cross and He will never bring them up again. Consequently we do not have to fear that God will reject or cast us aside when we come to Him in worship and in prayer. He welcomes us. We can make our prayers and petitions directly to Him knowing that He will grant forgiveness as well as all the strength and encouragement we need to persevere.
As the wicked prosper and evil seems to run rampant we need help to persevere amidst doubt, temptation, lies, and persecution. Church is where we find God’s truth as well as His help in the support and encouragement of Christ and His people, our brethren. Church is where we inspire and support one another. Church is where we encourage our fellow believers by just showing up for worship and fellowship. Church is where we help one another by manifesting the presence and righteousness of Christ through good works, humility, love, sacrificial living, and faithful perseverance. And we need this all the more in the chaos of contemporary life for only Almighty God can help us to persevere and only He can provide true meaning and purpose to life.