In the original Greek New Testament, this word, ‘fellowship’ is the word ‘Koinonia,’ meaning, ‘to hold in common.’ The New Testament church has much to teach us about how we are to meet and fellowship…
“They devoted themselves to the apostle’s teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and prayer… they broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God…” (Acts 2:42-47).
Let’s look at the context of this time frame. The Roman Empire ruled over Israel, and Christianity was illegal, resulting in persecution, arrests, imprisonment and false court hearings. Yet, the believers continued to gather together, joyfully, to do four things… have teaching from the Word, fellowship with one another, communion and prayer. Notice, that their devotion to Christ superseded the laws of their day.
Their common beliefs were anchoring. They believed that Jesus was their risen Lord, and that gathering together was the joy and fire that kept their hearts focused on Christ and burning with His love. As they had communion they remembered the Lord’s death UNTIL HE COMES. This was where their Hope was founded, and not on their hope of a changed political situation.
Dear ones, we need more than friendship, we NEED fellowship. We need the support of brothers and sisters that say, “Let us pray with you regarding this situation… and we won’t stop praying until your answer comes.” This is the joy and power of fellowship! We need it.
Comments