The Value of Fellowship
And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the
breaking of bread, and in prayers. (Acts 2:42)
The first Pentecost after the resurrection of Christ was a great day as 3000
souls yielded to God’s will and converted to Christ. These new Christians were
soon drawn to each other sharing their new faith in Christ. The text above
states they were wholly given to fellowship. Just what benefits did they receive
from such devotion to each other? Of what value is such fellowship today?
Accountability is one of the great benefits of association with God’s people.
Fellowship in a local church should involve the spiritual leadership of the
spiritually mature – both men and women who set forth an example of excellence
in conduct and character. (Titus 2:1-10) Its members should expect mutual
encouragement from each other. (Hebrews 10:24,25) Of all our acquaintances, our
brethren should have the highest expectations of us morally and spiritually. We
need that kind of friend.
The joy of serving is also another advantage of such fellowship.. God commands
mutual service and sacrifice (Galatians 5:13) of his people. He wants us to use
our talents to care (I Corinthians 12:25,26) for each other. By fulfilling the
needs of my brother we learn the true meaning of the Lord’s statement – “it is
more blessed to give than to receive”. (Acts 20:35).
So devote yourself to your brother and you will surely reap the rewards!
By George Slover, Jr.
From Expository Files 18.3; March 2011
