1. We are commanded to assemble together more frequently as the return of the Lord draws closer (Heb. 10:25). Even in the days of the early church, believers began to abandon meeting together. That is the idea in the word forsake, to leave behind. To assume that meeting with other believers is something we can “leave behind” in the Christian life is fatal. This reason alone should be sufficient to encourage us to be there. But there are more.
2. God speaks to His people when they assemble (Neh. 8:1-8; Acts 2:41-47). It is true that the Lord speaks to us in private meditation. But it is also true that some of His messages come only to an assembled group. This is why our meeting together should always give the Word of God the prominent place.
3. Hearing the Word of God cleanses our lives (corrective) and keeps us from sin (preventative) (Ps. 119:9-11, 33-40, 133; Eph. 5:26-27). There is nothing like the Word to flush out worldliness and sin, so prevalent around us. The Bible has this ability. When we absent ourselves, we miss that much-needed cleansing. It is one of the ways the Lord looks after us.
4. It is an opportunity to find comfort in trial (Ps. 119:41, 49-50, 52, 76; Rom. 15:4). Many believers report how they went to a meeting reluctantly but found a message given by one who had no knowledge about their particular problem. The right message at the right time in the right way provided comfort and help in trouble or discouragement. These wonderful opportunities are missed if we are not there.
5. It is an opportunity to encourage others (Ps. 119:74; 1 Thess. 5:11). Come to meetings with a positive attitude and look for opportunities to be an encouragement. Think about the speaker. We are readily there when a gifted, favorite speaker is scheduled. But what about the inexperienced and unknown? The brother with a large ministry was once young and inexperienced. But he was encouraged by a faithful fellowship who endured his learning time. Undoubtedly they will be rewarded along with him as they had a part in his development. The Lord knows what great men He may be preparing among your fellowship.
And we can encourage others who attend. Private conversations after a meeting are opportunities to speak just the right word that may lift another’s burden. Don’t miss it!
6. Hearing the Word of God strengthens us against the enemy (Ps. 119:98; Eph. 6:17). No one can afford to be out of training against the enemy; the Word equips us against his wiles. Our spiritual intelligence is broadened the more we hear the Scriptures. The enemy’s tactic is to confuse God’s truth in our minds. Hearing it weakens the devil’s strategies.
7. Our knowledge and wisdom will increase (Ps. 119:99-100). Not knowledge for knowledge sake: “Knowledge puffs up.” But to know Him (Phil. 3:10) and receive “the wisdom that is from above” (Jas. 3:17) will produce Christlikeness. Only when we feel we can learn no more, should we stay home.
8. It is a satisfying experience (Ps. 119:103). Many things can occupy our time, often good and necessary. But hearing the Word can satisfy the soul. There is something about it that leaves us with a sense of wellbeing. It is the food of God. It satisfies like no other.
9 We can receive guidance in perplexing situations (Ps. 119:105, 130). It is not always easy to know God’s will. But one of the ways He guides us is through His Word. Hearing that Word spoken and explained equips us to understand more of His ways and consequently to know His guidance. He is able to deliver His message to me in my time of confusion. How unwise to miss an opportunity like this.
10. And finally, the Lord Jesus has promised to be there (Mt. 18:20). I wonder, does this sink in? Do I take seriously the Lord’s presence among His people? It is possible to be so occupied with the faults and failings of the saints, or the familiarity of the routine, or the trials of life, that we miss the vital truth that “…where two or three are gathered together in My Name,” He promises, “there am I in the midst of them.” Remember Thomas!