Topical Encyclopedia Fellowship, in the Christian context, refers to the spiritual and communal bond shared among believers, rooted in their common faith in Jesus Christ. It is a vital aspect of the Christian life, emphasizing unity, mutual support, and shared purpose within the body of Christ. The concept of fellowship is deeply embedded in the New Testament, where it is often associated with the Greek word "koinonia," which denotes partnership, sharing, and communion.1. Fellowship with God and Christ The foundation of Christian fellowship is the believer's relationship with God through Jesus Christ. This divine fellowship is the source from which all other forms of fellowship flow. In 1 John 1:3, the apostle John writes, "We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ." This verse highlights the vertical dimension of fellowship, emphasizing that true fellowship among believers is rooted in their shared relationship with God. 2. Fellowship with the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in fostering fellowship among believers. In 2 Corinthians 13:14, Paul concludes his letter with a blessing: "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." The Holy Spirit unites believers, enabling them to experience and express the love and grace of God in their interactions with one another. 3. Fellowship Among Believers The early church exemplified the practice of fellowship among believers. Acts 2:42 describes the communal life of the first Christians: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." This passage underscores the importance of teaching, communal meals, and prayer as integral components of Christian fellowship. 4. Unity and Love in Fellowship Christian fellowship is characterized by unity and love, reflecting the oneness of the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:3-6 urges believers to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." This unity is further expressed through love, as seen in 1 John 4:11: "Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another." 5. Encouragement and Edification Fellowship serves as a means of encouragement and edification among believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts Christians to "consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This passage highlights the importance of regular gatherings for mutual encouragement and spiritual growth. 6. Sharing in Suffering and Joy Fellowship involves sharing in both the joys and sufferings of others. Romans 12:15 instructs believers to "rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep." This empathetic sharing strengthens the bonds of fellowship and reflects the compassionate nature of Christ. 7. Fellowship in Service and Mission Believers are called to fellowship in service and mission, working together to advance the kingdom of God. Philippians 1:5 speaks of the "partnership in the gospel from the first day until now," indicating the collaborative effort of the church in spreading the message of Christ. This partnership extends to acts of service, as seen in Galatians 6:10: "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith." In summary, fellowship is a multifaceted concept that encompasses the believer's relationship with God, the unity and love shared among Christians, and the collective mission of the church. It is a vital expression of the Christian faith, fostering spiritual growth, mutual support, and communal worship. Nave's Topical Index Ecclesiastes 4:9-12Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. Nave's Topical Index Amos 3:3 Library Concerning the Condition of Man in the Fall. Concerning "Peace" and what is Meant by "Very Being" Itself, "Very ... The General Deliverance Concerning the Ministry. Anti-Unionistic Attitude. The Congregationalists. Concerning Worship. Concerning Perfection. Concerning "Good," "Light," "Beautiful," "Desire," "Ecstasy ... On the Third Day He Rose Again from the Dead; He Ascended into ... Resources What is Bible Study Fellowship? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Christ Commission Fellowship? | GotQuestions.org What is the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship? | GotQuestions.org Fellowship: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Fellowship with the Wicked Forbidden Fellowship with the Wicked: Punishment of Fellowship: General Scriptures Concerning Fellowship: The Evil of Fellowship With the Wicked Exemplified by Ahaziah Fellowship: The Evil of Fellowship With the Wicked Exemplified by Israel Fellowship: The Evil of Fellowship With the Wicked Exemplified by Jehoram Fellowship: The Evil of Fellowship With the Wicked Exemplified by Jehoshaphat Fellowship: The Evil of Fellowship With the Wicked Exemplified by Judas Iscariot Fellowship: The Evil of Fellowship With the Wicked Exemplified by Rehoboam Fellowship: The Evil of Fellowship With the Wicked Exemplified by Solomon Fellowship: The Evil of Fellowship With the Wicked Exemplified by the Israelites Fellowship: Those Who Avoided Fellowship With the Wicked: Church of Ephesus Fellowship: Those Who Avoided Fellowship With the Wicked: David Fellowship: Those Who Avoided Fellowship With the Wicked: Jeremiah Fellowship: Those Who Avoided Fellowship With the Wicked: Joseph of Arimathaea Fellowship: Those Who Avoided Fellowship With the Wicked: Man of God Fellowship: Those Who Avoided Fellowship With the Wicked: Nehemiah Related Terms Sanctification (13 Occurrences) Unrighteousness (57 Occurrences) |
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