1 John 1:3 That which we have seen and heard declare we to you, that you also may have fellowship with us… I. THE PRIVILEGE. 1. A peculiar state of blessedness, in relation to God, described by Paul, as "this grace wherein we stand" (Romans 5:2). This is the true "kingdom of God on earth" — a restoration to the knowledge, favour, and image of God, not perfectly, but really and extensively. 'Tis the state of men elevated above all low, earthly, and grovelling desires; maintaining sweet and sanctifying intercourse with God, as their Father in Christ. 2. The means of its realisation. II. THE MUTUAL RELATIONSHIP ESSENTIALLY INVOLVED IN THIS FELLOWSHIP. 1. One holy brotherhood is established among all saints. The various characters of their several occupations, the diversity of their mental capabilities, the distance of their several residences, and other circumstances, preclude continual and intimate intercourse. But while even on earth it is not wholly so, and might be much less so than it is, all these circumstances of earth shall, in the future state, be wholly unknown. 2. A prevailing sympathy actually subsists among all the true followers of Christ; differing indeed in intensity, but real, and, if healthy and Scriptural, rising above the narrow and temporary distinctions which obtain among men. III. THE DUTIES DEVOLVING ON CHRISTIANS AS BRETHREN IN CHRIST. 1. The cultivation of brotherly love is obvious and paramount. A oneness of experience creates mutual interest in all by whom such experience is shared. Their feelings, as they resemble our own, encourage our hope and strengthen our faith. 2. The cultivation of mutual intercourse is an obvious and natural obligation devolving on all the brethren. (1) As individuals. All should remember the beautiful and imperative law of heaven, "Be courteous."(2) Social intercourse, too, will not be disregarded. 3. Mutual aid is obligatory, and this both in temporal and spiritual matters. 4. Mutual supervision is also incumbent on Christians with the view of preventing, or reclaiming from spiritual delusion. (J. Richard.) Parallel Verses KJV: 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. |
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