BIBLICAL FELLOWSHIP
Kimberly Lawrence
Today's Scripture: “And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” Acts 2:42, ESV
Theme: The Holy Spirit moves in the Church when we prioritize fellowship and unity.
BETTER TOGETHER
When I think of “fellowship” in the church, I think of Sunday afternoon picnics, fried chicken, and potlucks. Although I didn’t grow up in church, I would occasionally be invited along with a friend. I remember long tables set out on the lawn with what seemed to be an endless spread of food, while churchgoers chatted in small groups and the kids ran around playing together. I could see those people genuinely enjoyed a connection, a friendship. They didn’t just attend church, exchange pleasantries, and go home; they enjoyed and looked forward to spending time together.
Jesus, as our supreme example, communed with others during His ministry as well. He visited homes, gathered friends (disciples), prayed, conversed, taught, and broke bread. Fellowship is a friendly association with people who often share a common interest. For believers, our mutual faith adds a supernatural element. As we begin to know and appreciate others, particularly fellow believers, we are joined. Unified.
LIFE TOGETHER
My first Life Group meeting was six months ago. It was a step (or two!) out of my comfort zone because I not only joined but somehow found myself leading it! I wondered how this whole thing would work. Would I just introduce myself to total strangers, ask them to have a seat, and start talking about God? That seemed weird. With the help of our very gracious hosts, we decided that sharing a meal ahead of our study might help people relax and get to know one another better. Something about “breaking bread” could possibly remove inhibitions.
It worked and amazing things happened! Members were a bit tentative at our first meeting, snacking politely on a few appetizers. Fast forward to today…we share in the preparation of meals, contribute our respective specialties, go back for second helpings, and share to-go containers! I LOVE IT! This time of fellowship, getting to know one another more personally and intimately, has led to meaningful discussions about weekend messages, faith, family, experiences, and individual needs. This comfort also allowed us to step out in faithful discussions and prayer for each other. Fellowship breeds unity, which aids in growing our faith, drawing us together, and closer to God.
TWO OR MORE
In Matthew 18:20, Jesus promised “where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (NIV). He didn’t just mean within the walls of the church or on Sunday morning. He meant whenever and wherever His followers come together. Believers aspire to be close to God and we, therefore, must be intentional about personal relationships that will also bring us closer to Him. We are warned about being yoked together with unbelievers. Why? Didn’t Jesus minister to wanderers and sinners? He sure did. But He reserved his most intimate relationships for the closest of confidants – His disciples. As we continue to grow together in our faith, as a body of believers desiring a righteous lifestyle, we must also choose our circle wisely.
Make It Personal: Let’s take a quick inventory together and ask: “Am I integrated in the church and with fellow believers? Do my social and faithful friendships overlap? Are my strongest and most valuable confidents leading me toward a godly, eternal life? When I solicit advice from my very best friend, is their guidance rooted in biblical principles? Do I actively seek opportunities and make time to fellowship with others?” Take time to consider these questions today. Take time to break bread with a friend, inviting the Holy Spirit to move in your conversations and relationships.
Prayer: God, thank You for the gift of fellowship among believers. I do not want to take for granted the way You will show up when I am willing to make room. Help me grow spiritually through my relationships with others. Where there is a relationship in need of restoration, afford me the opportunity to seek resolution. Amen
Read: 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; Matthew 18:20; Psalm 133
Weekly Memory Verse: “...complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.” Philippians 2:2 (ESV)