• 10/6/24

Together in Fellowship

MAIN IDEA -
In the midst of a divisive presidential election year and a fractured nation, it is the church that must display unity as a beacon of hope, which can be found in Christ alone. We can only grow in unity as a church if we continually meet together in fellowship. What does fellowship require?

FELLOWSHIP REQUIRES CONSENSUS

The church comes together because it shares a common interest: the gospel of Christ. This gospel breaks down all ethnic, racial, and personality barriers. We must come together to encourage one another to grow in the gospel of Christ. Our goal is to grow together as we remain devoted to the teaching of God’s Word, devoted to fellowship, and devoted to praying for one another.

FELLOWSHIP REQUIRES CONTRIBUTION

The early church consisted of new believers facing difficulty and persecution. The members sacrificed their land and finances so that others might live and grow. We must willingly be sacrificial in giving our possessions to those in need. Today, this may mean sacrificially giving our time to one another, helping one another, and being present for one another. If a brother or sister is going through a difficult time, the church must be willing to sacrifice time and effort to support them.

FELLOWSHIP REQUIRES COMMITMENT

Individually, we must be intentional in our commitment to fellowship with others in the church. The early church met daily, praising God and sharing meals together. Likewise, we must commit to meeting every time there is a gathering, such as Sunday worship or weekly House Churches.

APPLICATION -

  1. Consensus: Set aside personality differences and unite with others based on the common ground we share—the gospel of Christ.

  2. Contribution: Sacrifice our time and possessions to support a struggling brother or sister in the church, helping them grow in faith.

  3. Commitment: Be intentional about always being present—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—at every opportunity, such as Sunday service, prayer meetings, House Church, etc. 

DISCUSSION QUESTION -
Which of these three do you think you need to remind yourself of, so that we can come together in fellowship?