10:24

consider one another: Or “be concerned about one another; pay attention to one another.” Earlier, Paul used the same Greek verb when urging the Hebrew Christians to “consider” Jesus, or to study his example carefully. (Heb 3:1 and study note) Here the apostle urges them to show sincere interest in the welfare of their spiritual brothers and sisters. Of course, he does not have in mind that they meddle in the business of others. (1Th 4:11; 2Th 3:11; 1Ti 5:13) Rather, he wants Christians to show genuine concern for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of one another. (Php 2:4) By cultivating a sincere personal interest in others, they would be able to encourage and motivate one another, as Paul goes on to recommend.

incite to love and fine works: This phrase might also be rendered, “motivate [or, “stir up”] to love and fine works.” Paul here urges the Hebrew Christians to keep motivating one another to show genuine, selfless love and to keep carrying out the fine works required of Christ’s followers. (1Ti 6:18; Tit 3:8) The Greek noun here rendered “incite” literally means “a sharpening.” The verb form of this word is used in the Septuagint at Pr 27:17 in the sense of sharpening, or spurring on, one’s fellow man. It is worth noting that both the noun and the verb often have a negative meaning, as in “provoking” or “stirring to anger.” For instance, the noun is used regarding the “sharp burst of anger” that flared up between Paul and Barnabas. (Ac 15:39) Here at Heb 10:24, though, Paul uses the Greek word in a positive sense. Some scholars suggest that by using the word in this unusual way, he makes it even more memorable.