When in your life did you feel discouraged and chose to meet with other Christians, to be part of Christian fellowship? Did it result from persecution from people, friends, or family who do not share your faith? Have other Christians hurt your feelings? You‘re not alone. The readers of the letter to the Hebrews might have felt the same way.
This letter was written to encourage its original readers to persist in the faith especially in the face of persecution and suffering. The writer encourages them to “hold fast to our confession” (4:14), “lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees” (12:12). The believers lack commitment, and worship attendance is dropping. Opposition is so great that many are tempted to abandon their faith.
The author reminds his readers of the hope they have in Christ in moments of difficulty. Believers are saved not only from sin but also from the fear of death because they place their eternal hope in Christ who redeems them. Jesus establishes our confidence to enter God’s presence and to approach God “with a true heart.” We “hold fast to the confession of our hope,” and finally we “provoke one another to love and good deeds.”
The author emphasizes the importance of Christians meeting together in support. With one another’s help, we endure and are strengthened and emboldened in times of hardship. The meeting together itself bears witness to our faith in Jesus, and we eagerly await his return.