ROOTS
“CHURCH GOING”

 OLD TESTAMENT ISAIAH 56:7 COMPARED TO

NEW TESTAMENT HEBREWS 10:25 VS OLD
includes “who’s over whom” Submission

This article follows the more describe Old Testament “Organic” Sabbath Examination

(C)2025 Taveau D’Arcy All copyrights reserved under international copyright laws

NOTE: In the part ROOTS prior to this  we did an Hebrews Old Testament deep explanation  of the character, fruit of the “Sabbath” and the ministry community “Fruit” Isaiah 56:1-7, “the fruit” V7

Today Sister Taveau is going to examine “Sabbath worship fellowship attendance” in Old Testament (Isaiah 56:7)  and purposely contrast in the light of Christian ministry Pauline admonition in Hebrews 10:25 “do not forsake fellowshipping with the saints” (see both stated below)

NOTE: I have trained this hot subject  without Chapt GPT for many ministry teaching years, yet time is growing short and the misogynist law appears to dismiss any apostolic pastor “woman” just for being The TYPE (which I train on in scriptures) However, I know enough to ask direct, pointed, targeting Very Particular Questions. WHY? to get it to address the KNOWN MINISTRY NEED (grass roots fooling all around!!). I then proof, it add my own but mostly let it give Bible passes, with Hebrew and Greek, or Aramaic, I am growing too. PS Having a lot of fun. Please free to sent ministry questions and POLITE “resembling James 3:17 FRUIT comments) crossbodyunity@gmail.com

Isaiah 56:7 and Hebrews 10:25 – KJV Verses

Isaiah 56:7 (KJV)

“Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.”

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.”

Dr Taveau asks Chat GPT AI 

Please briefly review the Torah Jewish views, and the First Church Bible Christian views

Chat GPT responds:

Deep Roots, History, Faith, and Apostolic vs. Torah Meaning of “Fellowshipping with the Saints”

JEWISH : Torah Understanding of Fellowship and Worship

In the Torah, fellowship among the people of Israel was built around communal worship and observance of the law, particularly the feasts and sacrifices ordained by God. Fellowshipping with the saints in the Old Testament was often linked to being obedient to the covenant, which involved maintaining holiness and purity within the community. The Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot), for example, was a time when all Israelites were required to gather and worship the Lord (Leviticus 23:39-43). This communal worship helped maintain the identity of Israel as a set-apart people, and it was tied closely to the practice of the sacrificial system which was essential to their relationship with God.

In the Torah, fellowship was not just about sharing meals or gathering in community for social purposes; it was about worship and obedience to God’s law. It was through obedience that they experienced God’s presence. The Ark of the Covenant, housed in the Holy of Holies, was central to Israel’s worship and fellowship with God, and the high priest would enter once a year on the Day of Atonement to seek forgiveness for the people (Leviticus 16:30-34). Fellowship was both vertical (with God) and horizontal (with one another).

CHRISTIAN Apostolic Fellowship in the New Testament

When the New Testament apostles, particularly Paul and John, speak of fellowship, it is often in the context of the body of Christ—the church. Fellowshipping with the saints in the New Testament is a communal act that is rooted in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and is characterized by grace, love, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Fellowship is not merely about gathering together; it is about being in union with Christ and with one another through that union (1 John 1:3, 1 Corinthians 12:12-13).

In Ephesians 4:11-13, Paul provides the purpose of the apostolic ministry within the context of the church’s fellowship: “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ:”

Here, fellowship is centered around growth in Christ, where the body of believers is built up and matured through the ministry of the Word, as well as the gifts of the Spirit that each believer contributes. This fellowship is inclusive, meant to embrace believers of all nations, races, and cultures. Galatians 3:28 emphasizes the inclusivity of the Christian fellowship: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

An Analysis of Isaiah 56:7 and Hebrews 10:25

Isaiah 56:7: A House of Prayer for All People

In Isaiah 56:7, God declares that His house of prayer will be for all people, regardless of race, nationality, or background. This was a radical concept, as Israel had historically been very exclusive in its worship practices. The Gentiles were often excluded from the Temple (the Court of the Gentiles), but in Isaiah’s vision, the Lord promises that all people who come to Him with humility and reverence will be welcomed. This prophecy points toward the ultimate fulfillment in Christ—through His death and resurrection, the way is opened for all people (Matthew 21:13, Mark 11:17).

God’s promise in Isaiah 56:7 shows that true fellowship is not limited by ethnic or national boundaries, but is open to all who approach God with a pure heart. Worship in this house of prayer is no longer tied to sacrifices or the temple rituals, but to the living sacrifice of Christ and the reconciliation of all people to God through His Son (Romans 12:1).

Hebrews 10:25: Assembling Together in the Last Days

In Hebrews 10:25, the writer exhorts believers not to forsake the assembling of themselves together, especially as the day of Christ’s return approaches. This verse highlights the importance of fellowship in the Christian community as it is foundational to mutual encouragement, edification, and support during difficult times.

This verse in Hebrews also implies perseverance in faith. In the early church, believers faced persecution and trial, and fellowshipping together was a source of strength and comfort. The reasons for assembling together are multi-fold:

1. Mutual encouragement – Believers come together to strengthen one another in faith (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
2. Exhortation – Encouraging each other to remain faithful and to not fall away (2 Corinthians 1:4).
3. Celebrating God’s goodness – Worship and praise as a communal act.

This verse is a call to community and to engage in corporate worship, regardless of what is happening in the world. Fellowship within the church provides not only the chance to learn but also to exhibit humility and love towards one another

ACCEPTANCE AND COMMUNITY IN OT AND NT

Apostle Taveau’s  CROSS BODY UNITY PERSPECTIVE: FELLOWSHIP RELATIONSHIPS

Diversity in the Early Church: Embracing All Cultures and Nations

The New Testament Church was marked by its radical inclusivity. In a time when cultures were often sharply divided, the message of the Gospel transcended these divisions. Apostle Paul, in particular, worked to break down cultural and racial barriers, showing that all people, regardless of their ethnicity or background, are welcome in God’s Kingdom. Ephesians 2:14-16 speaks to this, where Paul writes:

“For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:”

This passage reveals the unity that Christ brings among diverse peoples—Jew and Gentile alike are made one body through the cross. The church, as the body of Christ, is meant to reflect this unity and diversity, where people from all nations, races, and cultures are brought together through faith in Jesus Christ.

This idea is further highlighted in Revelation 7:9, where the apostle John envisions a great multitude of people from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne of God, worshipping Him in unity.

Taveau believes that the “key” to ALL types of fellowship is authentic leader, lay relationship respect, due to love, holy fear of the Lord, genuine humility.

She says to Chat GPT:
Please address the “holy fear of the Lord”

The Humility and Reverential Fear of the Lord

The church, both in the Old and New Testament, is called to approach God with humility and reverential fear. Humility before God and one another is crucial in true fellowship, as it acknowledges God’s sovereignty and acknowledges others above oneself (Philippians 2:3-4). In 1 Peter 5:5, believers are exhorted to clothe themselves in humility because God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.

In the context of fellowshipping with the saints, humility means understanding that we are all equal in Christ—we bring nothing of our own to earn God’s favor. The fear of the Lord is not about being scared, but about having reverence and awe for His holiness, majesty, and power. When believers come together to fellowship, it is not about status or earthly authority, but about recognizing God’s presence in the midst of the gathering.

Conclusion

The fellowship of the saints in both the Old and New Testament is a deep and significant practice that speaks to God’s desire for unity, love, and reverence in His people. Whether in worship or community, believers are called to gather together in the fear of the Lord, embracing each other in humility, and extending that fellowship to all people, regardless of cultural or national background. As Ephesians 4 and Isaiah 56:7 remind us, God’s house is a house of prayer for all nations, and His church is a place of unity in diversity, drawing people together through the shared humility, love, and reverence for Christ.

Taveau says

Please do an historical and linguistic context on this.

Chat GPT replies

Isaiah 56:7 and Hebrews 10:25: A Call to Genuine Fellowship and Worship

Historical and Linguistic Context

 JEWISH Isaiah 56:7 (KJV)

“Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.”

Context:
Isaiah 56 is a prophetic declaration about the inclusion of the Gentiles (foreigners) and the eunuchs into God’s covenant. It was radical for its time because Israel often viewed itself as the exclusive chosen people. This passage reveals God’s heart for all nations and emphasizes that worship is not restricted by race, background, or status.

• Hebrew Word Study:
  • “Holy mountain” (הַר קָדְשִׁי, har qodshi) – This represents God’s presence and governance, not just a physical mountain but a place where He gathers His people.
  • “House of prayer” (בֵּית תְּפִלָּה, beit tefillah) – A sacred space devoted to direct communication with God.
  • “All people” (לְכָל הָעַמִּים, lechol ha’amim) – A universal invitation, prefiguring the Great Commission.

This was a call for unity and a rebuke of exclusionary religious elitism. God’s desire was that His house be a place of spiritual authenticity, not a religious performance.

CHRISTIAN: 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.”

Context:
Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and tempted to revert to old traditions or isolate themselves. The writer reminds them that Christian fellowship is vital, especially as the return of Christ (the Day) draws near. This verse urges believers to prioritize corporate worship, mutual encouragement, and accountability.

• Greek Word Study:
  • “Assembling” (ἐπισυναγωγή, episynagōgē) – Not just gathering, but a spiritual assembling with purpose.
  • “Exhorting” (παρακαλέω, parakaleō) – Encouragement, urging each other on in faith.
  • “The day” (ἡ ἡμέρα, hē hēmera) – This likely refers to the return of Christ but also implies times of trial.

Both passages emphasize the value of corporate worship, not for show, but for genuine relationship with God and each other.

MAINLY TO THE TV MEDIA WATCHING USA

Taveau asked Chat GPT AI
Please give your  objective frank opinion on the TV media affects on today, mostly “tongue talking” effected main ministries, down in the TV watching, big into Christian Celebrity watching, Big Grass Roots.

TD SAYS: 

Before Reading This Part

I want to make it clear that I am not disrespecting the many well-meaning individuals within the vast, diverse world of what is commonly referred to as charismatic or Pentecostal Christianity. This movement is made up of many styles, doctrines, personalities, accepted beliefs, and trends, all of which fall under the broad category of charismatic renewal.

While I do not currently identify as charismatic, I am a former charismatic minister with firsthand experience in this realm. My intent here is to study and examine this movement with a Noble Berean approach—to carefully explore its roots in the Book of Acts, tracing its trajectory from the charismatic renewal of the mid-1970s to its later developments, including areas where distortion has crept in, particularly in the rise of celebrity culture within ministry.

However, I want to emphasize that I am not against high-visibility ministries, well-known figures, or small, local fellowships. I have been out among them and have personally witnessed the vast differences in styles, atmospheres, and leadership approaches. Some ministries may indeed exhibit traits that warrant biblical correction or reproof, while others do not—because no two are identical.

Thus, I encourage thoughtful discussion rather than harsh blanket accusations or broad-brush stereotypes. This is a study in discernment, not condemnation.

Chat GPT addresses
Application to Modern Charismatics: The Tension Between Showbiz and Servanthood

Today, much of the charismatic movement is a spectacle of talent, gifting, and money-driven enterprise, rather than deep community servanthood. Many leaders focus on crowds, hype, and emotional experiences but lack true communal responsibility.

1. Fellowship vs. Performance

• Isaiah 56:7 emphasizes “a house of prayer for all people,” but  many of the same “doctrinal viewpoint” (which appear to be the modern the mainly showman charismatic churches) often function more like theaters or business conferences.**
  **TD Comments: that is WHY I mention this; These have started form hierarchy, caste systems, (“rspecter of persons biased) and cults, which also represent a kind of splashy attention getting “form” but the fruit is backbiting, getting ahead, competition and trying to get ahead and “into the good graces” of the high elevated famous person. Peg much of this as “never trained in ministry deeply or right, to “clueless, well-intentioned acquisition, constant complaining and making man videos to air their grievances..in resembles a ministry formula.
• ***Hebrews 10:25 warns against “ceasing to fellowship with fellow Christians” isolation, but many believers today substitute true fellowship with live-streaming services, following influencers, and chasing celebrity preachers.++++ I live this and have seen it greatly evolve, driving many soft spoken, more knowledgable ‘”away” So later I teach the other side of this, and let the reader “choose” what they believe++COMING A FINAL ROOTS  PART:  I will teach my “Own” Cross Body Unity interpretation (not interviewing Chat GPT) but describing what the  trustworthy  Holy Spirit has given me about all of this, complete with o ‘Bible scriptures to compare but complement and giver honor to the Isaiah 56:7 seeming ‘prototype for Hebrews 10:15 “Church attending” (Next day)

True fellowship involves bearing each other’s burdens, intercession, personal accountability, and spiritual maturity.

T 2.T REMINDS: (ASSESS CASE BY CASE, NO BLANKET MINISTRY STEREOTYPES)
Joy and Praise Without Depth

• Many charismatic services focus on high-energy worship, lights, and powerful emotional highs—but lack depth in discipleship and servanthood.
• In Isaiah 1:10-17, God rebuked Israel’s superficial rituals because they lacked justice, mercy, and love for their neighbor.
• Modern application: A church that prioritizes big shows over feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, and caring for widows and orphans (James 1:27) misses the heart of God.

3. The Business of Ministry: Money and Manipulation

• Ministry today is often structured like a business model rather than an organic move of the Spirit.
• Mega-churches and conferences generate millions, yet many fail to invest in the local community.
• Jesus overturned the money changers’ tables (Matthew 21:12-13), calling it a “den of thieves” instead of a house of prayer.
• Solution: Churches should return to Acts 2:42-47 fellowship, where believers shared resources and ministered to one another with simplicity and sincerity.

Final Call: A Return to the First Church Model

Both Isaiah 56:7 and Hebrews 10:25 call believers to a deeper understanding of fellowship—not as entertainment or ritual, but as true relationship with God and one another.

• Isaiah 1-7 reminds us that God respects all people, and we should do the same.
• Assembling together should be about encouragement, accountability, and spiritual nourishment—not hype or commerce.
• We must return to authentic, servant-hearted leadership, not a celebrity-driven ministry culture.

Let the church be a place of true prayer, deep relationship, and real service—where everyone is valued, and God is central.

Dr Taveau asks Chat GPT
Please discuss legalistic control, PHARISEEISM

Chat GPT replies
The Modern Church’s Pharisaical Control: A New Religious System

The modern Christian church, in some circles, has revived a Pharisee-like control system that mimics the legalism and hierarchical structures found in ancient Judaism. While the New Testament emphasizes freedom in Christ and personal relationship with God, some churches today are returning to man-made systems of hierarchy, attendance monitoring, and submission to authority that are reminiscent of the Pharisees’ practices in Jesus’ day.

1. Church Control and Legalism

The Pharisees’ Legalism: A Contrast to Freedom in Christ

In the Torah, particularly in the Old Testament, the Sabbath was a central commandment that required rest on the seventh day. Exodus 20:8-10 clearly defines this as a day of rest, in which no work is to be done, and the Israelites were to observe it as a holy day to the Lord. However, over time, the Pharisees expanded these laws into a complex web of regulations and traditions designed to ensure compliance to the letter of the law. These were not simply laws about rest, but laws about how to rest, when to rest, and the activities that were and were not permissible, such as healing, carrying burdens, or walking too far. The Pharisees added human regulations to God’s commandment, which created a heavy burden for the people to carry.

In contrast, Jesus came to fulfill the law, bringing freedom through the new covenant (Matthew 5:17). He emphasized that the spirit of the law is what mattered, not just the outward compliance with the rules. Mark 2:27 says, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” Jesus sought to remove the legalistic burden the Pharisees had imposed and offered freedom instead, highlighting the importance of love and mercy over rigid rule-keeping.

In Galatians 5:1, Paul urges, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” This was an exhortation against a return to legalism, urging believers to embrace the freedom that Christ provides.

Freedom in Christ and the Choice to Worship

In the New Testament, particularly in the letters of Apostle Paul, the concept of freedom in Christ is emphasized. For example, Philippians 2:12 states, “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” Here, Paul calls believers to actively participate in their relationship with Christ and to make individual choices that align with their faith.

Paul’s emphasis on personal responsibility contrasts sharply with the forced compliance that some churches today require from their congregants. The emphasis in the New Testament is on a personal relationship with Christ, not rigid adherence to rules, such as mandatory attendance or submission to an earthly authority. Believers are free to worship, fellowship, and serve God as they are led by the Holy Spirit, rather than being watched and monitored for attendance or behavior.

2. Christian Phariseeism: Monitoring, Submission, and Legalistic Control

The Rise of Pharisaical Control in Modern Churches

In contrast to the freedom granted by Christ, many modern churches have taken on Pharisaical characteristics, demanding strict adherence to certain rules and regulations about attendance, submission to leadership, and behavior. Churches that monitor who attends services, who is submitted under a local pastor, and who is seen as a rebellious “church hopper” have created a new system that is reminiscent of the old legalistic traditions.

“Church hopping” is often viewed as a rejection of authority or an unwillingness to submit to a specific pastor or congregation. However, this judgment fails to account for the freedom and individual calling that God gives to each believer. In many cases, people may leave one church to seek a deeper connection with God elsewhere or to find a place where they can serve more effectively. Paul himself addresses the diverse roles in the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-14), affirming that each part of the body has a unique function. For some, that may mean not staying at a single church indefinitely.

The Local Pastor and the Issue of Submission

In some churches today, the focus on submission to a local pastor can cross into unhealthy control. While the Bible does address spiritual authority in the church (Hebrews 13:17), the submission required is one of trust and respect rather than blind obedience or coercion. The New Testament does not mandate that every believer must be tied to one pastor or church. Instead, it calls for leaders to shepherd and equip the saints (Ephesians 4:11-12), while the believers are ultimately responsible for their own relationship with God and spiritual growth.

However, some churches have taken this teaching and turned it into a man-made system of control, where believers are monitored, tracked, and judged based on their attendance, submission, or whether they attend a church that is officially recognized. The elders in these churches may become gatekeepers who scrutinize the spiritual lives of the congregation, making them feel as if their relationship with God is subject to human approval.

Legalism in Church Culture

Legalism is the practice of enforcing man-made traditions and rules, often prioritizing these rules above the heart of the Gospel. In modern churches that adopt Pharisaical control systems, the emphasis is placed on external behavior: How often you attend services, whether you submit to a particular pastor, whether you give financially, and how you interact with other believers. These outward signs of conformity can become the measure of a Christian’s spirituality, rather than faith and relationship with God.

This kind of environment can cause significant harm, as it creates fear and shame instead of love and encouragement. It diminishes the role of the Holy Spirit and personal conscience in the believer’s life and leads to a performance-based faith, rather than a grace-based faith.

3. Contrast with New Testament Church Practices

The First Church (as seen in Acts) was not defined by strict attendance rules or forced submission to human authority. Instead, it was a community of believers who were deeply committed to one another and to fellowship with God. They gathered regularly for prayer, teaching, and breaking of bread, but the emphasis was on relationship, not rigid structures.

The early church’s diversity was also a defining characteristic, as it brought together people from various backgrounds, ethnicities, and walks of life. Ephesians 2:14-16 highlights how Christ broke down the dividing wall of hostility between Jews and Gentiles, creating one unified body. This was the first church’s model of embracing diversity, rather than focusing on whether people conformed to a particular model of behavior or tradition.

The Apostle Paul frequently addressed the dangers of legalism and control in his letters. In Galatians 5:1, he admonished believers to stand firm in the freedom Christ provided and not to be entangled again by the yoke of slavery (referring to the legalistic rules). In 1 Corinthians 12:13, he reminds believers that all are baptized by one Spirit into one body, emphasizing the unity of the body of Christ over any man-made divisions.

Conclusion: A Call to Return to Freedom in Christ

The modern church must carefully evaluate its practices in light of the freedom and grace that are foundational to the Christian faith. While structure and authority are important, they should never overshadow the gospel message of salvation by grace through faith. Rather than policing attendance, submission, or behaviors, churches should encourage personal responsibility, freedom in Christ, and unity in the body of Christ. The Apostle Paul emphasized that each believer has a unique calling and should not be subject to man-made religious systems that seek to control or manipulate.

The real measure of a believer’s walk with Christ is not found in external compliance to human standards, but in internal transformation and the fruit of the Spirit in their lives. It is essential for the church to be a place of love, grace, and empowerment, where each person is free to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, without fear of judgment or legalism.

True Community vs. Religious Control: A Biblical Perspective

(Isaiah 56:1-7 & Hebrews 10:25 in Context)

I. Introduction: God’s Design for Fellowship

When we talk about fellowship and gathering, many Christians immediately think of Hebrews 10:25:

“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.”

But before we unpack this verse, we must lay the foundation in Isaiah 56:1-7, which shows the heart of God for true community—not membership ownership, turf wars, or leadership hierarchies, but a diverse and open invitation to real spiritual unity.

II. Isaiah 56:1-7 – God’s Invitation to All

1. Justice and Righteousness as the Foundation

“Thus saith the LORD, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed.” (Isaiah 56:1)

The Hebrew word for judgment (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) means fairness, equity, and righteous governance. The word for justice (tsedaqah, צְדָקָה) is often translated as “righteousness” but carries the idea of ethical living, not just rule-following.

This means that before there is any talk of gathering, membership, or leadership, God calls His people to live with integrity and fairness.

2. The Blessing of Keeping Covenant (Voluntarily!)

“Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.” (Isaiah 56:2)

Under the Old Testament law, keeping the Sabbath was required, but here, the invitation is broader—anyone who chooses to obey and honor God is blessed (ashar, אַשְׁרֵי), meaning happy, fulfilled, and spiritually prosperous.

This is an important transition—in the Old Testament, religious observance was mandatory. Under the New Covenant, obedience is a choice born out of love for God, not forced membership or legalistic control.

3. The Inclusion of Outsiders (A Prophetic Shift!)

“Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the LORD, speak, saying, The LORD hath utterly separated me from his people.” (Isaiah 56:3)

The word “stranger” (נֵכָר, nekar) refers to foreigners, outsiders, Gentiles—people who were not originally included in Israel’s covenant.

This is prophetic because it points to the New Covenant through Christ, where access to God is no longer limited to Jews but is open to all nations.

Key Point: God’s house is not about ownership or control. It is a place of prayer, worship, and relationship with God—open to all.

4. The House of Prayer for All People (Isaiah 56:7)

“Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer… for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.”

This is crucial: God’s house is about prayer, not politics. It’s about community, not control.

III. Hebrews 10:25 – The True Purpose of Christian Fellowship

By the time we get to Hebrews 10:25, the early church had already experienced persecution, division, and even legalism creeping in.

1. The Context of Hebrews 10:

Hebrews 10 is not about church membership or control—it is about encouragement and perseverance in the faith.

• Many early Christians were facing persecution for following Jesus.
• Some were tempted to go back to the old Jewish laws or isolate themselves.
• Hebrews 10:25 is a response to that fear:

“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.”

2. What Does “Assembling” Mean in Greek?

The Greek word for “assembling” here is ἐπισυναγωγή (episunagógé), which means a gathering together for encouragement, not an institutionalized church structure.

• This is not about church roll calls or tracking attendance.
• It is about believers coming together for mutual encouragement.
• It is voluntary, not legally enforced.

Key Point: Many churches today use this verse to justify membership control and tracking, but the early church was organic, not institutionalized.

IV. The High Call of God in Ministry Today

1. It’s Not About Phariseeism, Legalism, or Do-Gooderism

Many modern churches have become a system, a brand, a membership network. Some pastors function as CEOs, gatekeepers, and power brokers. But this is not God’s design.

2. It’s About the Lord, Not the Big Boss or the Crowds

Ministry is a high call because it is about representing the Father’s heart, not enforcing rules.

Look at Genesis 3, when Adam sinned.

• God didn’t scream at him.
• God didn’t throw him out immediately.
• Instead, God asked questions.

“Adam, where art thou?” (Genesis 3:9)

The Hebrew word for “where” (ayeka, אַיֶּכָּה) isn’t just a location question—it’s a relational question. God was inviting Adam to reflect on where he was spiritually.

This is what ministry should be today—inviting people to reflect on their relationship with God, not controlling them.

V. Conclusion: Returning to True Biblical Community

1. Isaiah 56:1-7 teaches that God’s house is for all people, not controlled membership.
2. Hebrews 10:25 is about encouragement, not attendance tracking.
3. Ministry today is a high call—not about numbers, branding, or control, but about shepherding people to know God.

The Lord’s heart is not about forced obedience, turf wars, or showbiz Christianity. It’s about authentic relationship, true community, and worship that is Spirit-led, not man-made.

“For mine house shall be called a house of prayer for all people.” (Isaiah 56:7)

Let’s make it that again.

(End of Teaching.)

CLOSING:

ABOUT MUTUAL SUBMISSION: SHERIFF ANDY OF MAYBERRY

TD says” The Lord dropped this wise example of mature contented family like “mutual submission ” Ephesians 5;21 into my spirit near the end of 2024;