Assembling Together

While sheltered in place in response to the pandemic in 2020, I experienced my first fully virtual church service. It wasn't the first time I'd viewed a sermon online or on a television screen, but it was the first time I'd used an online platform to attend a church service where every person in attendance had to do the same. As we returned to in-person church services later that year, distance protocols were in place to lower the risk of spread.

Five years later, some members still prefer the convenience of virtual church attendance. This article should not be construed as opinions concerning members with health concerns or other barriers that prevent them from attending church. No, the question I'm addressing is the importance of members assembling together when it is possible and reasonable.

In Hebrews 10:23-25, we're given direction regarding church fellowship. “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Here, Paul is pointing out that the followers of Christ share in the responsibility and privilege of meeting together. The people of God share in the responsibility of considering how they might “spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”

Christians are responsible for lifting others while they themselves are yet climbing. Every believer shares the responsibility to strengthen their fellow believers.

Paul’s encouragement is not only a responsibility, but also a privilege. It is the privilege of every believer to meet with other believers. By doing so, the giver of encouragement also becomes a recipient of encouragement. It is possible to be blessed in virtual spaces, but not to the same measure as when engaging in human contact with a brother or sister of like faith.

God created humans as social beings. Isolation is neither physically nor emotionally healthy for humans. Loneliness is an increasing public health concern in the United States. In 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued an urgent advisory declaring an epidemic of loneliness and isolation.

Ideally, the church offers healthy relationships, community, accountability, fellowship and instruction. We are our brothers' and sisters' keepers.

As we approach the closing scenes of this age and the return of Jesus Christ, the battles we face require more gathering, not less.

This requires more than just Sabbath worship. Consider adding prayer meetings and small group meetings to your schedule as we prepare for the rapid closing scenes that are coming.

Attending church is more than just a ritual; it’s about fostering spiritual growth, community and preparation for the return of Jesus Christ.

By Stephen Brooks, Executive Secretary