24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 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. Hebrews 10:24-25Christians have a responsibility for the love and good works of other Christians. According to Hebrews 10:24-25 we need to be thinking about how we can get our brothers and sisters in Christ loving more and doing more good deeds. Not Christians in general, but the ones you choose to gather with each week. Verse 25 makes that clear. This is a command we are to pursue in the context of our local church; a command requiring our presence if we're going to carry it out.
We've all heard about the 80/20 principle in church volunteerism. Normally, the people who think they're carrying more of the burden than other people say, "20% of us are doing 80% of the work." The 20% says it with frustration and even exasperation that the 80% isn't pulling their weight.
I think Hebrews has something radical to say about the 80/20 principle. Hebrews says that it may be the 20%'s fault for not considering how to spur the 80% along to love and good works. Hebrews says quit pointing fingers and start spurring. The word consider means what it says. It means think about it and figure it out. Try one thing and if that doesn't work try something else. It may be different methods for different people; that's what we're called to consider and figure out. Hebrews 10:24-25 asks us to find ways to get others involved in more love and more good works.
You carry a responsibility for the love and good works of others in your local church. You, not just your leaders. Hebrews says, "Let us . . ." This is one reason, of many, why committing to a local body is so important. Other Christians need you. They need you to look at them and consider how you can help them along. Oh, and by they way, you need them to look at you too!
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