Not Forsaking the Assembly (Part 1)

Bishop Riggen begins by reading Hebrews 10:25-26, emphasizing the command not to forsake assembling together, warning that willful sin leaves no further sacrifice. He clarifies this doesn't mean unforgivable sin but addresses the specific context of Hebrews who relied on repeated temple sacrifices, explaining that Christ's once-for-all sacrifice means believers must stop willful sinning, not merely cover it up. The bishop connects this to church attendance, stating that the early church faced persecution yet Paul still commanded them to gather. He stresses that attendance is a sacred duty, not a mere option, and that neglecting it makes missing easier. He offers self-examination: would your boss accept your excuse for missing work? Then he provides over ten biblical reasons for faithful attendance: Jesus' custom of going to the synagogue (Luke 4:16); the direct command in Hebrews 10:25; it prepares believers for the rapture; it makes the church a house of prayer (Matthew 21:12-14); it promotes unity (Psalm 133:1, Ephesians 4:3,13); faith comes by hearing preached Word (Romans 10:17); it brings accountability to leaders who watch for souls (Hebrews 13:17); it helps in the ongoing process of salvation through preaching (1 Corinthians 1:21); it is a visible response to the greatest commandment to love God (Matthew 22:36-38); it is a visible response to the second greatest commandment to love neighbor (Matthew 22:39); and it provides opportunity to bear one another's burdens, fulfilling the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2). The spiritual purpose is to rekindle love for God's house, recognizing that gathering builds faith, unity, and mutual care, enabling miracles and preparing believers for Christ's return.