So we talk a lot, as believers and followers of Jesus, about fellowship. Apparently it was a vital part of the early church and a main focus in the book of Acts and the ministry of the two chief apostles – Paul and Peter. Acts 2:42 states that the early church gathered daily for fellowship.

However, often we have not taken the time to think through what fellowship really is. What is it that makes gathering a few people together over coffee true Christian fellowship? 

1 John 1:7 states: “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 cleanses us from all sin.”

Christian fellowship has a number of aspects to it. In a brief study of fellowship in the New Testament it seems that Christians are to fellowship with one another in the following ways:

• • “Have peace with one another” (Mark 9:50) In this way we will be the salt of the earth.

• • “Be kindly affectionate to one another” (Romans 12:10) We are to love one another as members of one family.

• • “Giving preference to one another” (Romans 12:10). We are to prefer others in specific acts of service.

• • “Be of the same mind towards one another” (Romans 12:16). We are to be unified in values and goals. (See: Romans 15:5)

• • “Receive one another” (Romans 15:7). Fully accept one another.

• • “Admonish one another” (Romans 15:14). Caution one another, reminding each other of the dangers that might lie ahead.

• • “Greet one another” (Romans 16:16). Embrace one another in a full-hearted welcome. (See: 1 Corinthians 16:20; 2 Corinthians 13:12; 1 Peter 5:14).

• • “Wait for one another” (1 Corinthians 11:33). We aren’t to selfishly move ahead of one another.

• • “Have the same care for one another” (1 Corinthians 12:25) Treat every member with the same concern and affection.

• • “Serve one another” (Galatians 5:13). We are now free to dedicate ourselves to one another, being a blessing, serving in practical ways. (See: 1 Peter 4:10).

Koinonia may also have reference to the collection and distribution of gifts (Romans 15:26; 2 Corinthians 8:4; 9:13; Hebrews 13:16). 

• • “Bearing with one another” (Ephesians 4:2). We are to bear with one another’s weaknesses,. Standing strong in our devotion to one another no matter how offended we might get. (See: Colossians 3:13)

• • “Be kind to one another” (Ephesians 4:32). Be gracious and easy going with one another.

• • “Tenderhearted, forgiving one another” (Ephesians 4:32). We Must be filled with compassion for one another, graciously forgiving one another from our hearts. (See: Colossians 3:13).

• • “Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs” (Ephesians 5:19). Bring the presence of the Lord into the center of our fellowship.

• • “Submitting to one another” (Ephesians 5:21). Respect one another and respond to one another with a word of encouragement in times of crisis and discouragement. (See: 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 3:13; 10:25).

• • “Edify one another” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Always build each other up and not tear down; be a blessing and not a curse.

• • “Consider one another in order to stir up love and good works (Hebrews 10:24). Positively provoke one another to press forward in the will of God.

• • “Confess your sins to one another” (James 5:16). Be open and honest with one another.

• • “Pray for one another” (James 5:16). Stand in the gap for one another in the presence of the Lord.

• • “Having compassion for one another” (1 Peter 3:8). Be sympathetic for one another, identifying with each other at the point of need.

• • “Be hospitable to one another” (1 Peter 4:9). Have a sincere desire to host one another in our homes. 

These are summed up in 1 Peter 3:8 “Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.”

Something I have been thinking about….