Many believers reach a point where church feels more exhausting than uplifting. The politics, repeated scandals, empty routines, hypocritical members, or personal disappointments pile up until quitting seems like the only reasonable option. I was there — tired, disillusioned, and seriously considering walking away. Then one passage stopped me in my tracks and changed everything.
That passage is Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV):
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 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.”
Why This Passage Hits Hard
At first glance, it looks like a simple call to attend church. But when you’re frustrated, it cuts deeper. The writer of Hebrews wasn’t speaking from a place of comfort. The early Christians faced persecution, false teachings, and internal conflicts. Many were tempted to abandon the faith community entirely. Sound familiar?
The instruction is practical and urgent:
1. Stop focusing only on what you get — The verse shifts the perspective from “What is church doing for me?” to “How can I spur others on toward love and good deeds?” Church isn’t primarily a spiritual filling station; it’s a workshop where we build each other up.
2. The danger of isolation — “Not giving up meeting together” isn’t about perfect attendance or sitting through boring services. It’s a warning that isolation makes us vulnerable. When we drift away, discouragement grows faster.
3. The power of encouragement — In a world full of criticism (especially on social media), the church should be a place where we intentionally lift one another. The verse says we need this “all the more” as challenges increase.
My Turning Point
Like many Nigerians juggling work pressure, economic hardship, family responsibilities, and the noise of modern life, I started noticing every flaw in church — the loud members, the delayed programmes, the leadership gaps, the prosperity focus that ignored real suffering. I felt drained instead of refreshed.
Reading Hebrews 10:24-25 forced me to ask uncomfortable questions:
– Am I contributing to love and good deeds, or just consuming?
– Who needs my encouragement this week?
– What if my decision to quit makes it easier for someone else to give up too?
The passage didn’t magically fix every problem in the church. But it reminded me that the church is made of imperfect people serving a perfect God. My role isn’t to find a flawless congregation — it’s to be part of building one, even in small ways.
Practical Lessons for Today
– Show up with purpose: Go to church ready to encourage at least one person.
– Focus on Jesus, not people: People will disappoint, but Christ remains the reason we gather (Hebrews 12:2).
– Community is not optional: In the African context, where fellowship and “body” are deeply cultural, this truth should resonate even more.
– The Day is approaching: Whether you interpret this as the return of Christ or simply life’s uncertainties, time is short. We need each other now more than ever.
If you’re on the verge of quitting church, you’re not alone. Many strong believers have walked that road. But before you leave, open your Bible to Hebrews 10:24-25. Let it challenge and reset your heart.
Church isn’t perfect, but it’s still God’s chosen place for our growth and His glory. Sometimes the very passage we need is the one that calls us to stay and serve instead of walking away.
