Articles
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. 3,000 souls bowed to God’s will and had their sins forgiven. These new Christians were soon drawn to each other sharing their new faith in Christ. They were really 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). Shouldn’t our brethren have the highest expectations of us, morally and spiritually? We need that kind of relationship with one another.
The joy of serving is also another advantage of such fellowship. God commands mutual service and sacrifice of His people (Gal. 5:13). He wants us to use our talents to care for each other (1Cor. 12:25, 26). By fulfilling the needs of our brethren we learn the true meaning of the Lord’s statement – “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
So let us be devoted to one another and reap the rewards!
