I have noticed that several of our “one to another” commands are taught in “pairs,” as if they “belong” together. Verses with “double” loads of instruction on how we Christians are to minister to one another.
Let me give you an example. Today’s Verse, Hebrews 10:24, is perfect for that purpose. (In fact, we will focus on this short Sentence two days, both today and Friday, the Lord willing.)
Here’s the whole Verse: “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.” See them? Two clear admonitions!
Let me underline and capitalize the verbs involved. In English they are verbs, as translated in our King James Bible. “And let us CONSIDER one another to PROVOKE unto love and to good works.”
The first one is technically not an imperative verb, not an obvious command. “Consider” is the Greek word “katanoeo.” It is framed in the subjunctive mood here. Grammatically that means Paul is expressing a “longing” of his heart. A “craving, desire, yearning” he has for the Hebrew Believers he is writing. So … it was essentially a command, if one loved Paul enough and wanted to please that godly old (by now) Preacher. You know, that old “your wish is my command” kind of thing.
Now, what does “katanoeo” mean? “To fix one’s mind” upon something, or someone! “To watch, observe” him or her! Even “to keep an eye” on them, being sure they are progressing in the Faith. “To think” of them, the whole Church fellowship in this case. The pronoun “another” is plural.
“Katanoeo” is a blend, combining two Greek words. “Noeo” means “to ponder, to give heed, to think” about that fellow Believer. And the prefix “kata” (a preposition) intensifies the verbal thought. “Puts it in a higher gear!”
“Let us consider one another.”
And do note, this “considering” is used in a positive sense. Not grudgingly plotting against him, or feeling jealous of her. Thinking (evaluating) this person as a brother or sister in Christ.
Paul, who wrote this verse under the direction of the Holy Spirit (so I believe anyway), practiced what he preached. To his young protégée Timothy he wrote: “I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I HAVE REMEMBRANCE OF THEE ….” 2nd Timothy 1:3
A whole list of these example could be given.
Lesson over.
Practice ready to begin!
Think of someone today who is within your circle of Believers. As you “consider” him, pray for him (or her). If the Lord then leads you … do more than pray. Write them a card, give them a call, have them over for lunch Sunday (after Church). That’s “considering” him in the full Bible sense of the word.
This is the model of Christianity in which we truly do “serve one another,” nearly “pastor one another,” taking “oversight” one of another. (Not discounting the place and vital ministry of our Pastors, mind you.) But still, each member of the Body of Christ serving every other member of the Body of Christ!
Wow!
— Dr. Mike Bagwell