A Study of Fellowship (2)

Previously What is fellowship? From Greek, κοινωνία (koinonia - Noun) & κοινωνέω (koinoneo – Verb) “close association involving mutual interests and sharing…” (BDAG) Fellowship is sharing something. Joining together in agreement and working toward a common goal. A partnership.

Previously: In the Bible, a spiritual partnership. Romans 15:27, partakers of spiritual things. Involves unity (cf. John 17:20-21) This partnership can be either with good or evil. Consider the context. It is NOT dealing with secular interaction – food, social gatherings, etc. 2 Corinthians 6:14-16

Previously: Fellowship begins with God God the Father, Jesus - 1 John 1:3-7, Holy Spirit – 2 Corinthians 13:14 This is based upon our keeping His word – cf. Luke 6:46 Acceptance of one another – should be based upon fellowship with God – Acts 9:26-28 Philippians 1:5, 2:1-2

Previously: It involves acceptance of one another We need to consider one another Romans 14:1, 15:1, in matters of liberty (doubtful things) NOTE: This is NOT about: Romans 16:17 – those teaching error Ephesians 5:11 – those practicing error 2 John 9-11 – those endorsing error

Fellowship with one another It is sharing with each other We are a family! Brethren! 1 Peter 2:17, “love the brotherhood” Acts 2:42, they continued in “fellowship”. We “share” in worship Philemon 6, “the sharing of your faith” Hebrews 13:16, do good and share

Fellowship with one another It is sharing with each other Romans 12:13, distributing to the needs of the saints. Cf. Acts 2:44-45, 4:32-37, they had “all things in common” (cf. Mark 10:28-30) When we understand true fellowship, it will NATURALLY draw us together at other times and in other areas.

Fellowship limited! Withdrawing from a sinning brother – Those teaching error – Romans 16:17 Those practicing error - Ephesians 5:11 Those endorsing error – 2 John 9-11

Fellowship limited! Ephesians 5:11, have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness 2 Corinthians 6:14, not unequally yoked 1 Corinthians 10:20, I do not want you to have fellowship with demons. Do not leave the impression with those in or teaching error that you approve!

Fellowship limited! 2 John 9-11, do not receive or greet one not abiding in the doctrine of Christ into your house 1 Timothy 5:22, do not share in other people’s sins. 1 Timothy 6:3-5 – those teaching error (rejecting wholesome words) 2 Timothy 3:1-5 – those practicing ungodly behaviors and attitudes – we withdraw and turn away from such!

Fellowship – other thoughts Is sincerity enough? Some advocate that (in certain areas) if one is sincere, we can tolerate their error (either teaching or practice) We must do the will of the Father - Matthew 7:21-23 Paul was sincere, but wrong Why correct Apollos? Acts 18:24-28 We CANNOT imply approval! 2 John 9-11, Ephesians 5:11

Fellowship – other thoughts Is sincerity enough to ignore… What is the work of the church? How do we worship God? What one must do to be saved? One living an immoral life – MDR, drunkenness, gambling, etc.? Teaching theistic evolution?

Fellowship – other thoughts Is fellowship limited to collective action? Some advocate that our concern with fellowship is in matters we do together. We cannot ignore the spiritual danger of a soul – 1 Corinthians 5:1-6 Yes, there were congregational concerns, but there were also individual concerns. The act of adultery is NOT a collective action 1 Corinthians 5:11-12 – we have individual responsibilities Sin is sin! Ephesians 5:5-7, 11

Fellowship – other thoughts Can (should) we ignore sinful conduct for the sake of friendship/family? NO! Again, a soul is at stake – 1 Corinthians 5:11-13, 5 We cannot put family or friends before God – Matthew 10:37, cf. Deuteronomy 13:6-8

Fellowship – other thoughts Can (should) we ignore sinful conduct for the sake of friendship/family? Paul, confronted Peter - Galatians 2:11-14 – Is it unreasonable to think that BECAUSE of their fellowship, Paul confronted him? Many today will not jeopardize a relationship for the sake of their soul Do NOT forget 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15

Fellowship…. Teach truth Galatians 2:9 Practice truth Ephesians 4:3 With those who NOT With those who Teach truth Galatians 2:9 Practice truth Ephesians 4:3 Endorse truth 3 John 5-8 Teach error Romans 16:17 Practice error Ephesians 5:11 Endorse error 2 John 10-11

Are we in fellowship with Him? Fellowship is a blessing and a privilege Christians enjoy. It is a declaration to the world of our relationship with one another. God’s word guides us in that fellowship! Are we in fellowship with Him?