YBible Thoughts Y October 18, 1998
The early Christians were a dedicated and determined group of folks. Such qualities are implied in the word "stedfastly." They stuck with the truth, they treated each other as brethren, and they worshipped the Lord. The enthusiasm of these disciples should be imitated by every child of God in every generation. After all, that is the example that was left for all of those who would follow.
When one examines the above passage, it is evident they not only had a desire for truth and an aim of worshipping God, but they were interested in maintaining the proper relationship with others of like faith. This interest is seen in the word "fellowship." This word appears 17 times in the King James version. If one examines the base meaning of the word, it denotes "communion...sharing in common...communicate"(W. E. Vine). One other word that is translated fellowship means "partnership." Hence, it has to do with something people have in common, what is shared with another. By examining the passages where the word appears, we can come to an understanding of what occurred when "fellowship" took place among the early disciples.
The fellowship of the disciples in Jerusalem came through the teaching of the apostles. They were sharing in the knowledge of the truth, the spread of the truth and the practice of truth. They were willing to share their food and goods with those who lacked that they might have fellowship in their needs(Acts 2:44-45). They were partners in the work of Christ and were enthusiastic in the opportunity to be of service to others. Another example of this can be found in II Corinthians 8:4 in the commendation of Paul of the generosity and "fellowship" in the sacrifices they made in relieving others. The zeal of these brethren was seen in their preparation a year in advance. Their eagerness was used by Paul as an example to stir up others(II Corinthians 9:1-2).
Paul thanked the Philippians for their willingness to "fellowship" with him in the spread of the gospel(Philippians 1:5). These early saints were eager to supply Paul's need, recognizing that their "sharing" what they had with him would permit him to "share" the gospel with others. By their contributions, they became a "partner" to the apostle. The same is true today. When we support someone to preach the truth, we have fellowship with that disciple.
Fellowship is also used to describe the relationship of Christians to the Son of God(I Corinthians 1:9). Christians are able to draw near to Christ and to increase their strength by sharing, not only with the Lord, but with others as well. If the Corinthians had fully realized earlier what Paul is telling them now, they would have avoided the factions and divisions that arose in their midst. When those of today realize this truth, the strife and factions sometimes found among brethren will disappear as well. Fellowship is not only a word, it is a strong commentary on how Christians should feel toward one another and treat one another. It should be so valued by every disciple of Christ that every effort would be made to stay in the fellowship of the saints. As James, Peter, and John gave to Paul and Barnabas the "right hands of fellowship" (Galatians 2:9), so we should always work to share in the truth by practicing with other disciples all of what God has revealed to us.
When one obeys the gospel, he comes into fellowship with the sufferings of Christ(Philippians 3:10). In obedience one is "buried with him...into death" and takes on the likeness of the death and resurrection of Christ(Romans 6:4). This newness of life allows one to share his own life with Christ and with those who have obeyed God's Son. John says that "our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ"(I John 1:3). As we continue to "walk in the light...we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanseth us from all sin"(I John 1:7).
There is a negative type of fellowship as well. The New Testament outlines what we are not to share or commune with that which disrupts the fellowship we have with God and the saints. The early Christians could not profess to be disciples and commune with heathen teachings and practices(I Corinthians 10:20). Practicing the error of that day, while claiming to follow Christ, would place them in an unequal yoke(II Corinthians 6:14). Or, as Paul said, "...have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather even reprove them"(Ephesians 5:11). It behooves Christians to be alert as to what they approve or become involved with, lest they share in or approve, practices that would place them in fellowship with the world and not with God.
The fellowship of the saints is a Bible way to gain strength, assist others, and prepare for eternity. It is gained through the communing together in all of the activities of the kingdom, in encouraging others, in setting an example of righteousness, caring for those who need our help, and many other ways. This fellowship is a spiritual experience that draws one closer to God and closer to those who love the Lord.
While there is fellowship in a party, a meal, a social gathering, etc., it is not the type of spiritual fellowship found in the Bible. Some brethren have followed the denominations in building "fellowship" halls. This is simply another term for a room for parties and other secular events. We do have a "fellowship" hall: it is utilized each time the saints gather to worship, study, and carry out the work of the Lord's people. That is Bible fellowship!