Fellowship at Grace Community Church

What Is Fellowship and Why Do We Need It?

»» What is Fellowship? Gathering together in unity is something that Scripture exhorts us to do for the good of the body and each other, as stated in Hebrews 10:24-25:

"Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and(C) all the more as you see the Day drawing near."

And of the fellowship of believers in Acts 2:42:

"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer."

»» Why should we fellowship? Man was created as a social being and, indeed, our relatively brief journey on earth was never meant to be a solo walk. Indeed, our journey as a Christian implies fellowship with Jesus, as stated in 1 Corinthians 1:9:

"God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful."

This is but an example that symbolizes what we should pursue in body life with those we are drawn to.

»» We are to gather in fellowship for the good of each other. (1 Thess. 5:12-13) We are to comfort each other. This means to encourage one another and give relief to a brother in distress and have compassion on each other. ALL these things can bring comfort to the believer and we should do anything else that can cause comfort to a brother in the Lord and that includes a LONG LIST of comforting things.

"We ask you, brothers [and sisters], to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves."

We are to edify and that is to teach each other. We are to gather, not just in formal worship, but informally as well — as friends, brothers and sisters, out of love and covenant — to teach and comfort and exhort one another.

Do we fully embody this goal in worship? Sadly, we cannot begin to adequately lay claim to such a position, in the fallen state as sinners that we share as a common bond with all humanity. Nevertheless, it is the ongoing commitment and goal of Grace Community Church to not be content with worship that is hollow, repeated from rote memory, or exercised in ritual. God in his Greatness deserves so much more.

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