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Well Said, F. F. Bruce!
The name F. F. Bruce is not one many will recognize, but he was a highly respected Bible scholar of the 20th century whose published works continue to bless those who read them.
With that said, let’s give special attention to Bruce’s observations on the following passage: “. . . and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near” (Heb. 10:24-25 NASB).
Here’s what Bruce said: “The readers [of the book of Hebrews] will be the more apt to confess their hope courageously and unhesitatingly if they encourage one another. Christian faith and witness will flourish the more vigorously in an atmosphere of Christian fellowship.”
After discussing what it means “to stimulate one another to love and good deeds,” Bruce says, “This will never happen, however, if they keep one another at a distance. Therefore, every opportunity of coming together and enjoying their fellowship in faith and hope must be welcomed and used for mutual encouragement.”
We simply cannot prosper spiritually when we’re not in frequent fellowship. How we need each other! That’s one reason Christ designed the church the way He did.
Thank God for giving us our spiritual family, and for the vital role He has assigned each of us—to be an encourager of our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Oh, by the way, we’re having a family reunion this coming Sunday. See you there!
