The Importance of Fellowship: Acts 2:42; Hebrews 10:24-25; 1 John 1:7
Fellowship is a word that is often used in Christian circles, but what does it really mean? And why is it so important for believers to practice it? In this blog post, we will explore the biblical meaning of fellowship and its benefits for our spiritual growth and witness.
The word fellowship in the New Testament comes from the Greek word koinonia, which means “sharing, participation, communion”. It implies a close relationship with God and with other believers, based on a common faith and love. Fellowship is not just a social activity or a casual conversation; it is a deep and meaningful connection that involves sharing our lives, our joys, our sorrows, our prayers, our resources, and our gifts.
One of the best examples of fellowship in the Bible is found in Acts 2:42, where we read that the early church “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer”. They were not just attending a weekly service or a monthly meeting; they were living in community, learning from each other, eating together, worshiping together, and supporting each other. They were experiencing the reality of Jesus’ promise in Matthew 18:20: “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them”.
Another passage that highlights the importance of fellowship is Hebrews 10:24-25: “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”. The author of Hebrews urges us to not neglect fellowship, but to use it as an opportunity to motivate each other to love God and others more. Fellowship is not only beneficial for ourselves, but also for others. We need each other’s encouragement, especially in times of difficulty and persecution.
Finally, fellowship is also essential for our relationship with God. In 1 John 1:7 we read: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin”. Fellowship with God and fellowship with other believers are inseparable. We cannot claim to love God if we do not love our brothers and sisters in Christ. And we cannot experience God’s forgiveness and cleansing if we do not confess our sins and forgive one another. Fellowship is a sign of our obedience and gratitude to God.
In conclusion, fellowship is a vital aspect of our Christian life. It is not optional or secondary; it is essential and primary. It is a gift from God and a responsibility for us. It is a source of joy and strength. It is a way of honoring God and serving others. Let us therefore cherish and practice fellowship as God intended.
