OUR FELLOWSHIP
By John C. Carpenter
John, the apostle, wrote, That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which
we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested,
and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with
the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full (1 John 1:1-4).
In verse
3 above, the word fellowship is translated from the Greek word koinonia, which means partnership, participation with, have social
interaction with, communion, or distribution among. Some have defined fellowship as the spiritual bond between believers and God the
Father and Jesus Christ, and fellow believers. Others consider it to be shared participation within a community. Another excellent
definition of fellowship is a Christian's shared beliefs, convictions, and behaviors. Websters New Collegiate Dictionary defines fellowhip
as companionship or company, or a community of interest, activity, feeling, or experience. As we shall see, there are some fellowships
that are pleasing to God, and there are some which are not.
FELLOWSHIPS APPROPRIATE TO THE CHRISTIAN
The scriptures mention
several types of fellowship available to and desirable with the Christian, as well as some that are not and which must be avoided
by the believer. The first is apostolic fellowship. The English word apostle is translated from the Greek word apostolos, which means
a delegate, an ambassador, a commissioner of Christ with powers, one sent forth, a messenger, or one who is sent by God.
In the
book of Acts we see, Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission
of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar
off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from
this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his [Peter's] word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto
them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship [Greek, koinonia, which means
partnership, participation with, have social interaction with, communion, or distribution among], and in breaking of bread, and in
prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together,
and had all things common (Acts 2:38-44). Apostolic fellowship involves agreement in doctrinal issues, in eating together, in socializing
together, and in praying together.
By definition, the believer in Christ must, and will, have fellowship with Jesus Christ. In
his first letter to the church in Corinth, the apostle Paul explained: I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God
which is given you by Jesus Christ; That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; Even as the
testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who
shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom ye were
called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that
ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind [Greek,nous, intellect, thought, feeling, will, or understanding] and in the same judgment [Greek, gnome, cognition, feelings, opinions,
resolve, purpose, and will] (1 Corinthians 1:4-10). It is God the Father who calls the believer into fellowship with His Son, and
that fellowship should involve speaking the same speech, and that there are to be no divisions among you, and that you are to be be
perfectly joined together with the same understanding and judgment.
The next type of fellowship to be experienced by the believer
in Christ is a fellowship with fellow believers or saints of God. Again, the apostle Paul wrote to the church in Corinth: Moreover,
brethren [Greek, adelphos, from the same womb, a brother literally or figuratively, or being near to], we do you to wit of the grace
of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty
abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of
themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the
saints. And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God. Insomuch
that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also. Therefore, as ye abound in every
thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.
I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love (2 Corinthians 8:1-8).
Scriptures also refer to this fellowship with the saints: Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is
faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works (Hebrews 10:23-24). In the book of
Acts of the apostles, we read, Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about
three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers(Acts 2:41-42).
The scriptures also mention the fellowship of the mystery of the dispensation of grace. Paul wrote the church
in Ephesus, For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace
of God which is given me to you-ward: How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Whereby,
when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men,
as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same
body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God
given unto me by the effectual working of his power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that
I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship [Greek, koinonia,
which means partnership, participation with, have social intercourse with, communion, or distribution] of the mystery, which from
the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ (Ephesians 3:1-9). When Paul mentions here
the fellowship of the mystery, he is referring to his ministerial role in the disensation of the grace of God and the promise of Christ
by the gospel. Paul explains that the mystery of Christ and the gospel message was revealed to new testament apostles and prophets,
so that the Gentiles could be fellowheirs, and so that all men can see what is the fellowship surrounding this mystery.
In his
letter to the believers in Philippi, the apostle Paul refers to another type of fellowship which the scriptures describe as the fellowship
in the gospel. Paul said, Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi,
with the bishops and deacons: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God upon
every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship [Greek, koinonia,
which means partnership, participation with, have social intercourse with, communion, or distribution] in the gospel from the first
day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus
Christ: Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the
defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in
the bowels of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:1-8). In his letter, it appears that Paul is not only referring to the fellowship the Philippian
believers had with Paul himself, but also the fellowship and relationships the Philippian church members had with one another.
Another
type of fellowship Paul refers to in his letter to the church in Philippi is fellowship with the Holy Spirit. Paul wrote, If
there therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship [Greek, koinonia, which means partnership, participation
with, have social intercourse with, communion, or distribution] of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye
be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness
of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in
fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly
exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven,
and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God
the Father (Philippians 2:1-11). Paul explains that if the Philippian church were consoled in Christ, had comfort in loving, and had
a parnership with the Holy Spirit of God, they would fill Paul with an abundance of joy, the church would be likeminded with Paul,
having the same love, and being of one accord and one mind [mentation and understanding]. Through their working with and obedience
to the Holy Spirit, Paul exorted the Philippian church to do nothing through strife, but in lowliness and humility of mind and understanding
to esteem others better than themselves, which was the same mindset of Christ, who humbled himself and became obedient unto the death
of the cross.
Again, in writing to the church in Philippi, Paul also mentioned being in fellowship with Christ's sufferings.
Paul added, Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you
it is safe. Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the
spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any
other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of
the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching
the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless,
and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of
all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ. And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of
the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power
of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings [Greek, pathema, something undergone, hardship, pain, or difficult emotion],being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead (Philippians 3:1-11). In this
context, the apostle Paul is referring to his willingness, even eagerness, to undergo the same hardship, pain, difficulties, and sufferings
that Christ experienced, including physical death, if necessary, to fulfill his life-giving service to Jesus Christ.
Writing
to Christians in Asia Minor, the aposstle John, the evangelist, wrote, That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which
we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested,
and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with
the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message
which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship
with him, and walk in darkness [Greek, skotos, shadiness, obscurity, error, deception, or in this context lying or speaking untruth],
we lie, and do not [speak and admit] the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another,
and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin (1 John 1:1-7). In this context, John is teaching that confession
of the truth, that is, the truth that we are all sinners, results in believers not only having fellowship with each other, but, more
importantly, walking in the light allows all believers to fellowship with our heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ.
FUNCTIONS
AND FRUIT OF FELLOWSHIP
Fellowships with God the Father, Christ, and other men can bear much fruit. For example, fellowship can
involve alleviating poverty. The apostle Paul referenced a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem (Romans
15:26), and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints (2 Corinthians 8:4). To the church in Corinth, Paul also referenced liberal
distribution not only to the saints, but to all men: Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food,
and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which
causeth through us thanksgiving to God. For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also
by many thanksgivings unto God; Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto
the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men (2 Corinthians 9:10-13).
Fellowship with
other believers is seen in the sharing of material goods. We see in the book of Acts of the apostles that the apostles continued stedfastly
in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders
and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and
goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread
from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people.
And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved (Acts 2:42-47).
Fellowship is also reflected in dining or eating
meals together, as well as in praying together. Again, we see in Acts: they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship,
and in breaking of bread, and in prayers (Acts 2:42).
Fellowship can also result in many good works being performed: Let us hold
fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke
unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another:
and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching (Hebrews 10:23-25). Believers are instructed to Let your light so shine before
men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
MARKS OF FELLOWSHIP
A
mark can be thought of as a sign, a reflection, evidence of, or an indication of something else. From a Christian viewpoint, a mark
can be thought of as evidence of God the Father, Christ, and the Holy Spirit working within the minds, hearts and lives of individuals.
The
first mark of fellowship with God is that God the Father, Christ, and the Holy Spirit must be living and working within us. Paul wrote,I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I
live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me (Galatians 2:20).
Another mark indicating the presence
of fellowship with God is speaking and living the truth. For example, the apostle John tells us, This then is the message which we
have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with
him, and walk in darkness [hidden, deception], we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light [that which is revealed and
true], as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to
forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:5-9). True Christian fellowship with man and God involves
admitting and speaking the truth, especially regarding the fact that we are all sinners. In his vision of God's holiness and glory,
and his own wretchedness, Isaiah wrote, Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in
the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts (Isaiah 6:5).
A third mark of fellowship
is humility. Jesus told the multitudes around Hiim, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:3).
In this context, poor in spirit refers to humble submission to Christ and His will. Those who are destined to partake of God's kingdom
of heaven have the quality of humility and obedient submission to Christ. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall
lift you up (James 4:10). As Paul taught, the believer is to serve the Lord ...with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and
temptations... (Acts 20:19).
Another mark of fellowship is trusting in Christ, having faith in His wisdom, words and instructions,
and forsaking all and following Him. Saint Luke, a companion of Paul, wrote, And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon
him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret, And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone
out of them, and were washing their nets. And he [Christ] entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he
would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. Now when he had left speaking, he
said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have
toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. And when they had this done, they
inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that
they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw it, he
fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. For he was astonished, and all that were with him,
at the draught of the fishes which they had taken: And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with
Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. And when they had brought their ships to land, they
forsook all, and followed him (Luke 5:1-11).
Obedience to the commands of Christ is anoher very significant mark of our fellowship
with Christ, and others. John, that apostle, whom Jesus loved, wrote, My little children, these things write I unto you, that
ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our
sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.
He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in
him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so
to walk, even as he walked (1 John 2:1-6). Jesus elsewhere reminds us of our priorities - If ye love me, keep my commandments (John
14:15).
Another mark of our fellowship with Christ is our rejection of carnality, and obedience to God and His will for us. The
apostle Paul clearly teaches, For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit
the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind
is enmity [hostility, opposition] against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are
in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now
if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his (Romans 85-:9).
Confession of our faith in Christ as Lord is also
a mark of our fellowship with God and Christ. Again, Paul teaches, every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory
of God the Father (Philippians 2:11). Writing the church in Rome, Paul adds, if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus,
and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto
righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation (Romans 10:9-10).
James teaches, Confess your faults one
to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much (James
5:16), and John taught, If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness(1 John 1:9). Confession and fellowship are inseparable.
When fellowship is present, the believer in Christ will also have sacrificial
love for the brethren, that is, his or her fellow believers. Jesus commanded His own disciples, This is my commandment, That ye love
one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends (John 15:12-13).
Jesus even expects a deep love, a sacrificial love from believers in Christ as evidence of our salvation. Jesus taught, We know thatwe have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth
his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. Hereby perceive we the love of God, because
he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren (1 John 3:14-16). The apostle Paul referred to the
love of the brethren when he wrote, Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence,
and in your love to us [fellow believers], see that ye abound in this grace also (2 Corinthians 8:7), while Paul told the believers
in Philippi, this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment (Philippians 1:9).
Purification
of ourselves involving moral sanctification will also accompany true fellowship with God, and man, as Christ was pure. John teaches
us, Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth
us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that,
when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth [Greek,hagnizo, to make clean, innocent, modest, chaste, or to morally sanctify] himself, even as he is pure (1 John 3:1-3).
Where there
is fellowship, there is also perseverance in our spiritual battles that we shall inevitably have. John, the evangelist, again wrote,Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to
stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against
the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of
God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about
with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above
all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation,
and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching [Greek,agrupneo, to be sleepless, keep spiritually awake, or to be aware] thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints (Ephesians
6:10-18).
Where there is fellowship, there is also solidarity among believers, and perseverance in correct doctrinal beliefs.In the book of Acts, we see, Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about
three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers (Acts
2:41-42). Believers are expected to be Holding fast the faithful [gospel message or] word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by
sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially
they of the circumcision (Titus 1:9-10). Paul also exhorted believers to Take heed unto thyself, and unto the [correct and accurate] doctrine;
continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee (1 Timothy 4:16).
Seeking the Lord,
His Kingdom, and His righteousness is also without doubt a true mark of Christian fellowship. Christ pointedly instructs us, But seek
ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33), and in the book of
Acts, we find that we all should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every
one of us: For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring (Acts
17:27-28).
Also, giving, or charity, of all forms is considered a significant mark of fellowship with man and God. Scriptures
instruct us, But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also
bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a
cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). Without doubt, A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men (Proverbs
18:16), while Jesus taught, Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again (Luke
6:30), as well as, Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall
men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again (Luke 6:38). Finally, Jesus
instructs us, Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give (Matthew 10:8).
If there is fellowship, there will be [or should] be liberal charity.
One of the least favorite marks of fellowship that most
folks are not interested in hearing about is suffering. Fellowship with God and man, more often than not, will eventually involve
suffering of one kind or another, for one severithy or another, and for one length of time or another. For example, to the church
in Rome, Paul wrote, ...we glory in tribulations [Greek, thlipsis, literal or figurative pressure, anguish, burden, persecution, suffering,
or trouble] also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed;
because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us (Romans 5:3-5), as well as, The Spirit
itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs
with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together (Romans 8:16-17). The apostles suffered greatly:when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name (Acts 5:40-41).
To the church in Philippi, Paul also wrote, For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also
to suffer [Greek, pascho, to experience a difficult or painful sensation or impression, suffer, or be vexed] for his [Christ's] sake (Philippians
1:29). Elsewhere, Paul encouraged Timothy, It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we
suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us (2 Timothy 2:11-12). Peter shockingly teaches that it may
even be God's will that those who believe in God the Father and Christ suffer, something that many Christians absolutely deny, or
at least resist. Peter wrote, Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him
in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator (1 Peter 4:19). Suffering may originate from the individual, satan, or God; but the truth
is that Christian suffering is a reality and unavoidable.
Fellowship should and will also involve trust (Mat 14:15-21, 1 Kings
17:11-15, Luke 6:38, and Phil 4:12), and those who have fellowship with one another must also think alike and have the same, or similar,
priorities and values (Amos 3:3, 2 Cor 6:14, and John 14:17).
Although there are many more marks of fellowship found within the
scriptures, in order to save time, this last mark is offered. Our fellowship with God the Father, Jesus, His Son, and our fellow believers
in Christ can also involve encouragement, the giving and receiving of love, and acts of charity involving good works. The author of
the book of Hebrews teaches us, Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works (Hebrews 10:23-24). And above all things have fervent charity
among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another without grudging. As every man hath
received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God (1 Peter 4:8-10). Regarding
service and encouragement to other believers, Paul wrote the Thessalonian believers, Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify
one another, even as also ye do. And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord,
and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves (1 Thessalonians
5:11-13). Believers are also to Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which
is in heaven (Matthew 5:16). The Lord, Himself, even said, It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).
FELLOWSHIPS
THE BELIEVER IN CHRIST MUST AVOID
The believer in Christ fellowships with many things, but there is a fellowship explained by
Paul that God the Father certainly does not want the believer in Christ to have – that is, fellowship with unbelievers. In his second
letter to the believers in Corinth, Paul wrote, Be ye not unequally yoked together [Greek, heterozugeo, to associate with discordantly,
or to be yoked, coupled, or joined with that which is different] with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?
and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth [a believer] with
an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will
dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be
ye separate [Greek, aphorizo, to set off by boundary, to limit or exclude from, to divide or sever from], saith the Lord, and touch
not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord
Almighty (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). God the Father, through Paul, describes unbelievers as unrighteous, full of darkness, being of Belial
[satan], full of infidelity and idolatry, and unclean, with whom the believer in Christ is to have no fellowship with. Clearly, God,
through Paul, instructs the believer to come out from among unbelievers, and be ye separate. The believer's separation from the unbeliever
allows God to receive us, be a Father to us, and allows us to be sons and daughters of our heavenly Father.
A second fellowship
that should be avoided by the believer in Christ is fellowship with devils, or the demonic realm. Again, Paul wrote to the church
in Corinth, I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood
of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we being many are one bread, and one body:
for we are all partakers of that one bread. Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the
altar? What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing? But I say, that the
things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship withdevils [Greek, daimonion, a demonic being, a bad or evil supernatural spirit, or by extension a false diety]. Ye cannot drink the
cup of the Lord, and the cup [Greek, poterion, a drinking vessel, by extension the contents of, or a lot and/or fate] of devils: ye
cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he? (1
Corinthians 10:15-22). When the believer in Christ wittingly, or unwittingly, makes a sacrifice to idols, rather than to God, our
heavenly Father becomes a jealous God. The believer in Christ clearly cannot be a partaker of the content, substance, and fruit of
devils or the demonic realm.
Another type of fellowship which the Lord does not want believers in Christ involved in is what
the scriptures describe as fellowship with the works of darkness [hidden sin or error]. Paul mentioned this fellowship in his letter
to the church in Ephesus: Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and
hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or
covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which
are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who
is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these
things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness,
but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and
truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful [Greek, akarpos, barren literally or
figuratively, without fruit, worthless,or unproductive] works [deeds, labor, work, or toil]of darkness [Greek, skotos, shadiness,
obscurity, or darkness of error], but rather reprove [Greek, elegcho, to confute or admonish, convict, tell a fault, rebuke, or reprove]them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made
manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light (Ephesians 5:1-13). In this context, the apostle Paul specifically
identifies these works of darkness as fornication, uncleanness, covetousness, filthiness, foolish talking, and jesting. Paul adds
that the believer in Christ should not only avoid involvement or fellowship with these works of darkness, but should even reprove
and correct those who are involved with these dark, hidden, damning sins.
Another fellowship that God the Father is displeased
with is any fellowship we have with the world. James, a brother of Jesus Christ, wrote, From whence come wars and fightings among
you? Come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot
obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume
it upon your lusts. Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship [Greek, philia, fondness, an associate, or neighbor]of the world [and its ways and priorities] is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore
he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he
will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double
minded (James 4:1-8). Scriptures remind us, Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world,
the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride
of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of
God abideth for ever (1 John 2:15-17). Fellowship with the world and, at the same time, true fellowship with God, Christ, and the
Holy Spirit is not only incompatible, but impossible.
OUR FELLOWSHIP IS WITH THE FATHER AND WITH HIS SON JESUS CHRIST
In
his letter to fellow saints, the apostle John also referred to the most significant and fruit-bearing fellowship that the believer
can and should have – fellowship with God the Father and with His son Jesus Christ. Our intimate relationship and fellowship with
our Father in heaven, has been made possible only through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The only way we
can come to God is through Christ and faith in Christ. Jesus plainly taught, I [Jesus Christ] am the way, the truth, and the life:no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6). Teaching that He is the only way to God the Father, Jesus also scolded some
Jewish leaders when He said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door [Christ, the only access] into the sheepfold,
but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep (John
10:1-2). For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 2:5).
Yet, the scriptures
also surprisingly teach that no one can come to faith in Christ except through the will and working of God the Father. Jesus clearly
teaches, No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written
in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh
unto me (John 6:44-45). The scriptures also teach that All that the Father giveth me [Christ] shall come to me; and him that cometh
to me I will in no wise cast out (John 6:37). God the Father's role in the initiation of our salvation is plain: Herein is love, not
that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins (1 John 4:10).
We must also recognize
that fellowship with God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, bears magnificent fruit - the fruit of eternal life. As Jesus told
Nicodemus,God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have
everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He
that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of
the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than
light, because their deeds were evil (John 3:16-19). As Paul and Silas taught the keepers of the prison, Believe on the Lord Jesus
Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house (Acts 16:31). In his letter to the church in Rome, the apostle Paul referred to the
necessity of confession and belief when he wrote, if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine
heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the
mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed (Romans 10:9-11).
Regarding
the value of salvation through faith in Christ, the unknown author of the book of Hebrews exhorts us, Therefore we ought to give the
more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word [message of salvation] spoken
by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; How shall we escape, if we
neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him (Hebrews
2:1-3). When the believer has knowledge of and fellowship with God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ, there is one result: life
eternal. Christ prayed to His Father in heaven, this is life eternal, that they might know [fellowship with] thee the only true God,
and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent (John 17:3).
Fellowship with the Father in heaven, and others, has another fruit - it not
only brings joy, but fullness of joy. Jesus told some of His disciples, As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue
ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his
love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full (John 15:9-11). The apostle
John referred to heavenly, Godly joy when he wrote, That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship
with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your
joy may be full [Greek, pleroo, to make replete, crammed full of, satisfy completely, accomplish, fulfill, or supply fully](1 John
1:3-4). Again John wrote, That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have
looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness,
and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare
we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full (1 John 1:1-4). Addressing the fruit of the believer's fellowship with
God and Christ, Peter adds, Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy
unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end [Greek, telos, goal, conclusion, or purpose] of your faith, even [specifically] thesalvation of your souls (1 Peter 1:8-9). The fruits of fellowship with God the Father and Christ, His Son, are eternal salvation
of the soul and joy unspeakable. It doesn't get better than that. AMEN.
THE CHRISTIAN HERALD
A
Judeo-Christian Bible Study
“The LORD bless
thee, and keep
thee: The LORD
make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto
thee: The LORD
lift up his countenance
upon thee, and
give thee peace”
(Numbers 6:24-26).
“Be strong and of
a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid
of them: for the
LORD thy God, he
it is that doth go
with thee; he will
notfail thee, nor
forsake thee”
(Deuteronomy 31:6).
“Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the
LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to
pass”
(Psalms 37:3-5).
“Better is little
with the fear of
the LORD than
great treasure and
trouble therewith.
Better is a dinner
of herbs where love
is, than
a stalled
ox and hatred therewith”
(Proverbs 15:16-17).
“Shew me thy ways,
O LORD; teach me
thy paths. Lead me
in thy truth, and
teach me: for
thou art the God
of my salvation;
on thee do
I wait
all the day”
(Psalms 25:4-5).
“Woe unto them
that call evil
good, and good
evil; that put
darkness for light,
and light for
darkness; that
put bitter for
sweet, and
sweet
for bitter! Woe
unto them
that are wise in
their own eyes,
and prudent in
their own sight!”
(Isaiah 5:20-21).