Bible Thoughts

February 21, 1999

Homan's Bible Dictionary defines fellowship as "The bond of common purpose and devotion that binds Christians together and to Christ." Strong's Greek Dictionary defines the Greek term(s) as involving "communicate, distribute, be partaker" as well as "partnership; participation."

John had an understanding of what the word meant. This led him to encourage Christians of his day to practice and appreciate that fellowship. The sharing, the commonness, the communication, the feeling of togetherness, the participation, etc. brought about the bonding of these people to Christ and to each other. The closeness with which the early Christians sustained their dedication to Christ and to fellow disciples serves as a strong example for all of us. When we are as close to the Lord as we should be and when we are as close to the brethren as we should be the "tie that binds" us together will not be easily severed or broken.

The word "fellowship" appears sixteen times in the New Testament. This certainly tells us that the early church was well informed as to those practices that brought about fellowship. In the book of Philippians alone, the word appears in five different verses. If those disciples were taught by Paul, and others, the value of fellowship, those of us who live today should also have a keen interest in being as those early Christians.

The church was only a few hours old when the comment is made by Luke, "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' teaching and fellowship"(Acts 2:42). The ministers of Christ had shared the truth with these people; they were bound together in the gospel. The strength they gained from being with the servants of God made them stronger in the faith. Such fellowship will help each of us to be strong in the faith. John would state it in this manner. "...if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanseth us from all sin"(I John 1:7).

The "right hand of fellowship"(Galatians 2:9) has a deep meaning to those who are walking in the paths of Jesus Christ and the apostles. They realize there is someone who cares, someone who will help, someone who will listen, and someone who will give strength because of that bond. Not only is one in fellowship with Christ(Corinthians 1:9), but in fellowship with all the faithful in Christ. How reassuring it should be to the Christian that other disciples are bound to them through the death of Christ.

Fellowship assists one to stand for the truth when others oppose the word of God. The Philippian brethren had such an opportunity to assist Paul(1:5) as he labored in the gospel. We have such fellowship with others when we hold up their hands as they preach the truth. We have such fellowship when we make it possible for them to proclaim the word of God because of our material and spiritual support. Even when Paul was being persecuted, he did not forget those who were willing to "share" with him in the gospel(Philippians 4:15).

Fellowship involves sharing in the sufferings of Christ(Philippians 3:10). While we cannot take the Lord's place as a sacrifice, we can participate by our remembrance of his death, not only in the Lord's Supper, but in our daily lives. This also becomes a bond that will bring us together unto the one who did die for each of us. As we partake each first day, this memorial feast will bring one closer to the Lord as they share in their minds what Jesus did for all of mankind.

Fellowship is also practiced by being sympathetic and helpful toward other Christians who are suffering afflictions(of whatever nature). Paul commended the Philippians because the brethren had shown this concern when they "had fellowship with me in my afflictions"(4:14). As we are caught up in our own daily lives(with its responsibilities and obligations), we need to remember there are those who need our help, our encouragement, our sympathy, and, yes, our interest. As Christians, we are to help these bear their burdens so they can face what life has brought them. It will make the helper a better person; it will make the helped feel closer to fellow disciples and to the Lord.

Fellowship is catching. Consider what Paul said of Philemon, "I thank my God always, making mention of thee in my prayers, hearing of thy love, and of the faith which thou has toward all the saints; that the fellowship of thy faith may become effectual, in the knowledge of every good thing which is in you, unto Christ. For I had much joy and comfort in thy love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through thee, brother"(v. 4-7). What a commendation; what an influence. Our very faith, when shared in life and example, will be noticed and shared(fellowshipped) with others. It will bring strength and respect to those with whom we contact in the faith. It will make one like Philemon stronger; it will cause others to want to be stronger.

It is indeed refreshing to know that a Christian has brothers and sisters in Christ who will share what they have, who will communicate with them, and who feel a partnership with all disciples. It is the common purpose and devotion to the Lord and his cause that gives meaning to the word fellowship.