Don’t forget about fellowship!

One of the three key characteristics of the early church includes fellowship. Notice how Luke describes it in his description of the first church: “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42). Here, fellowship means sharing what we have in common, which in Christian fellowship means sharing with each other the experience of our relationship with Jesus Christ Himself. Also here, the breaking of bread highlights a common meal, which possibly included the Lord’s table as well.

Why is fellowship important? Fellowship is important because it is one of the three characteristics of the early church. Further, it provides the conduit through which life in Jesus Christ gets enhanced for every disciple. Consider how this happens. When you enjoy fellowship with another follower of Jesus Christ, the door gets opened for greater discipleship, mutual care, one-anothering, and many opportunities to demonstrate Christ’s love.

How do you have fellowship? Let me suggest three ways this week that you can increase your fellowship with other followers of Jesus. First, be intentional. Fellowship is not simply hanging out with another follower of Jesus. Instead, the conversation needs to consider Jesus, life in Christ, and somehow reflect the relationship we have in Christ. Second, spend specific time with another follower of Jesus. Clear a few minutes in order to have a conversation with another person. Third, make sure to spend time in prayer as you can with those to whom you talk. Prayer is the ultimate expression of fellowship. You talk to God with another person – the ultimate in fellowship.