Fellowship

The term ‘fellowship’ is as it sounds, and it means having something in common. By reason of knowing and practising God’s ways, we have fellowship with Him and with others who are doing the same through being ‘in Christ.’

The way which we have to fellowship with others is stated in Hebrews 13:16, Philippians 1:5 and 2:1. The basis is the gospel. Paul speaks of “Fellowship of the spirit” ie fellowship which is based on our common following of the spirit mind of God. Because of this fellowship, there is need to travel great distances to be with others, visit isolated believers and make good use of postal and telephone contact. The greatest expression of our fellowship is found in Acts 2:42,46 and 1 Corinthians 10:16,17.

Fellowship is based upon a common understanding of the true gospel. The more we apply the gospel in our lives, seeking to overcome our sinful tendencies, and the deeper we progress in our understanding of God’s word, the deeper our fellowship will be with God, Christ and others.

Our way of life should be in accordance with the principles which are expressed in the true doctrine (1 John 1:5-7; Psalms 119:105; Proverbs 4:18). Fellowship ceases when a believer starts to hold doctrines or a way of life which is openly opposed to Bible teaching (Ephesians 5:11). Efforts should be made to win such people back (Luke 15:1-7; Matthew 18:15-17; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18).

Those in fellowship are commanded to meet together in “one place” (1 Corinthians 11:20), if distance allows. There ought to be no deviation from this (Hebrews 10:24,25; Psalms 122:1). For where two or three are gathered together in His Name, there He is in the midst of them.

All ecclesias should have the same basic constitution. Each ecclesia is responsible for sound doctrine and conduct among its members. We are in fellowship with those 10,000 miles away to just as great a degree as those with whom we meet weekly. Fellowship has no limits of time and space. It is a high responsibility, a glorious privilege, a joyful and unearthly relationship of minds and hearts united by, and in, the Truth.

Bro Eric Wamalwa (Bungoma, Kenya)