The Importance Of Christian Fellowship Series

Title: THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Hebrews 10:24-25

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." (NIV)

Supporting Texts: Matthew 18:20; Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 12:25-27; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

INTRODUCTION:

Christian fellowship is an essential part of the believer’s journey. It provides spiritual growth, mutual encouragement, and a sense of belonging in the body of Christ. Fellowship is more than just gathering; it is a connection of hearts united in Christ, working together for God’s glory. This study explores the importance of fellowship and how it impacts our spiritual lives and the church.

1. FELLOWSHIP BUILDS SPIRITUAL GROWTH

Through fellowship, believers encourage one another to grow spiritually and remain steadfast in their faith.

a) Sharing the Word

Fellowship provides opportunities for teaching and learning God’s Word (Acts 2:42).

b) Accountability

Believers hold each other accountable, helping one another avoid sin (Galatians 6:1).

c) Encouragement

Fellowship strengthens faith through encouragement (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

d) Prayer Support

Praying together builds spiritual strength and unity (James 5:16).

Biblical Example:

The early church grew spiritually as they devoted themselves to fellowship, prayer, and the apostles' teaching (Acts 2:42-47).

2. FELLOWSHIP PROVIDES MUTUAL SUPPORT

Christian fellowship ensures no believer walks alone in their journey of faith.

a) Bearing Each Other’s Burdens

Fellowship allows believers to share and support one another’s challenges (Galatians 6:2).

b) Encouraging the Weak

The stronger in faith help to uplift those who are weak (Romans 15:1).

c) Unity in Diversity

Fellowship helps believers appreciate and celebrate their differences in Christ (1 Corinthians 12:25-27).

d) Love in Action

Fellowship demonstrates Christ’s love through acts of kindness and service (1 John 4:7).

Biblical Example:

Paul often spoke of the mutual support he received from fellow believers, such as Timothy and Silas (Philippians 2:19-22).

3. FELLOWSHIP STRENGTHENS THE BODY OF CHRIST

Through fellowship, the church functions effectively as one body.

a) Unity of Purpose

Fellowship unites believers in advancing God’s kingdom (Ephesians 4:3).

b) Edification of the Church

Fellowship builds up the church in love and faith (Ephesians 4:16).

c) Witness to the World

A united fellowship serves as a testimony of God’s love to the world (John 13:35).

d) Collective Worship

Worshipping together glorifies God and uplifts the congregation (Psalm 95:6-7).

Biblical Example:

The unity and fellowship of the early church led to growth and favour among the people (Acts 4:32-35).

4. FELLOWSHIP EQUIPS BELIEVERS FOR SERVICE

Fellowship prepares believers to serve God and others more effectively.

a) Discovering Spiritual Gifts

Fellowship provides opportunities to identify and use spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7).

b) Equipping for Ministry

Believers are trained and encouraged to serve through fellowship (Ephesians 4:12).

c) Collaborative Evangelism

Fellowship inspires teamwork in spreading the Gospel (Philippians 1:27).

d) Building Confidence

Fellowship emboldens believers to witness and serve (Acts 4:31).

Biblical Example:

Barnabas and Paul worked together in fellowship to minister and plant churches (Acts 13:2-3).

5. FELLOWSHIP PREPARES US FOR ETERNITY

Christian fellowship is a foretaste of the unity and joy we will experience in heaven.

a) Heavenly Unity

Fellowship reflects the unity of believers in eternity (Revelation 7:9-10).

b) Encouragement for the Journey

Fellowship helps us persevere as we look forward to Christ’s return (Hebrews 10:25).

c) Strength to Overcome

Fellowship provides strength to overcome trials and challenges (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

d) Anticipating Eternal Joy

Fellowship gives us a glimpse of the joy of being in God’s presence (Psalm 133:1).

Biblical Example:

Jesus often shared fellowship with His disciples, preparing them for the kingdom to come (Matthew 26:29).

CONCLUSION:

Christian fellowship is vital for every believer. It fosters spiritual growth, provides support, strengthens the body of Christ, equips us for service, and prepares us for eternity. As we gather together in fellowship, let us spur one another on to love and good works, reflecting Christ’s love in all we do. Never underestimate the power of genuine fellowship—it is God’s gift to His people.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to value and participate in Christian fellowship.

2. Father, strengthen the unity of believers in the church.

3. Holy Spirit, teach me to encourage and support my fellow believers.

4. Lord, remove every spirit of division from our fellowship.

5. Father, help us to grow spiritually through fellowship.

6. Lord, bless our gatherings with Your presence and power.

7. Father, equip us through fellowship to serve You better.

8. Holy Spirit, help us to reflect Christ in our relationships.

9. Lord, let our fellowship be a witness to the world of Your love.

10. Father, prepare us through fellowship for eternal joy in Your presence.