“And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds.”
Hebrews 10:24
The letter to the Hebrews was written to encourage believers to persevere in faith and to remain steadfast amid trials. Nestled within its exhortations is a simple yet profound call: “let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds.” This short verse reveals a key aspect of Christian discipleship, that faith is not a solitary pursuit but a shared journey rooted in intentional care for one another.
What It Means to “Consider One Another”
The phrase “let us consider” (Greek: katanoeō) means more than a casual thought. It conveys the idea of attentive, deliberate observation to fix one’s mind upon something or someone with purpose. In other words, we are called to thoughtfully and prayerfully reflect on how we can encourage others in their walk with Christ.
To “consider one another” means taking the time to truly see others: their needs, struggles, and strengths. It invites us to move beyond surface-level relationships and into genuine fellowship. This is not a passive command; it requires empathy, patience, and spiritual attentiveness.
The Goal: “To Stimulate One Another to Love and Good Deeds”
The verse continues: “to stimulate one another to love and good deeds.” The word stimulate (Greek: paroxysmós) can also be translated as “to provoke” or “to spur.” It suggests an active urging, sometimes even a challenging, that prompts growth.
Our aim is not to criticize or control, but to lovingly inspire others toward Christlike living. Love is the foundation, and good deeds are its natural fruit. When we thoughtfully engage with one another, our words, prayers, and actions can rekindle a waning faith or strengthen a weary heart.
This mutual encouragement creates a ripple effect within the church: as each believer grows in love and service, the entire community is strengthened and becomes a living testimony of the gospel.
The Context of Community
Hebrews 10:24 flows naturally into the next verse: “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” (Hebrews 10:25).
The command to consider one another cannot be fulfilled in isolation. It depends on regular, meaningful fellowship. Gathering together is not merely a ritual it is the context in which love and good deeds are cultivated. Whether in worship, small groups, or acts of service, Christian community provides the environment where this verse comes alive.
Practicing Consideration in Daily Life
To obey Hebrews 10:24, we must be intentional. A few practical expressions might include:
- Listening deeply to others before offering advice or judgment.
- Praying regularly for specific people and their needs.
- Offering encouragement that affirms others’ spiritual gifts and efforts.
- Challenging one another lovingly when we see apathy or sin taking root.
- Serving together in ways that display the love of Christ to the world.
In doing these things, we reflect the heart of Jesus, who continually considered those around Him the hurting, the lost, and even His disciples who often failed to understand Him.
The Example of Christ
Ultimately, our ability to “consider one another” flows from how Christ has considered us. He knew our greatest need and acted in perfect love to meet it. As Hebrews 12:2 reminds us, we look to Jesus, “the author and perfecter of faith.” When we fix our eyes on Him, our hearts are transformed to love as He loves.
Conclusion
Hebrews 10:24 calls believers to a thoughtful, active, and relational faith. To “consider one another” means to engage our minds and hearts in finding ways to encourage others toward love and good works. It is a call to spiritual attentiveness to live in such a way that our presence in the lives of others becomes a catalyst for their growth in Christ.
In a world that often promotes self-focus, this command reorients us toward community and compassion. The church that lives out Hebrews 10:24 will shine with the love of Christ, drawing others to the One who first considered us.
Leave a comment