Church, because Easter

Some thirty years after the crucifixion, resurrection and ascension of Jesus, after Christianity boomed at and after Pentecost, a leader in the church opened a letter to the Hebrew Christians.  Inspired by Holy Spirit, the ink filled the papyrus unpacking the fulfillment of all things in Jesus - the priesthood, the temple, the atonement, the law and the prophets, everything.  “Long ago, at many times and in various ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son…” (Hebrews 1:1ff). They are who they are because of Jesus. 

After the Resurrection, Christians began to meet for corporate worship - the preaching of the word, prayers, psalm singing, and the Lord’s Supper. No longer gathering on the seventh day, but on the day of Jesus’ resurrection, the first day of the week. Every week, worshipping in celebration of Jesus making all things new.  We also know that this life of worship extended into the week, as they lived out their vocations and devoting themselves to works of mercy.

But, as the author of Hebrews addresses, it has become habit for some to miss out on meeting together. Reading the other letters of the New Testament, we may be able draw some reasonable conclusions on why some withdrew from the regular worship. We also see the reality of Jesus’ parable of the sower (Matthew 13, Mark 4, Luke 8). The Lord continues to offer himself in His Word and Sacraments, offering forgiveness, life, and salvation, though our other habits often take precedent. 

The events of Easter call away from the things of the world and around the things of God. Death is done. Atonement has been made. Sin is forgiven. Jesus Christ is Risen. He’s Risen, indeed! Alleluia!

Let us continue to hear it again and again until the Day of the Lord comes. I look forward to the reunion that is to come, both, when the recommendations and mandates are lifted, and more, when Jesus comes again.

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.  (Hebrews 10:23-25 ESV)