PM Scripture Reading: 1 John 1.1-7

This Evening’s Sermon:

Brent T. Willey

Lofty Fellowship

Introduction:

1. The word typically translated as “fellowship” in the Greek New Testament is the word KOINŌNÍA; found nineteen times.
2. Defined: “partnership, i.e. (lit.) participation,” “communion, joint participation,” & “fellowship, sharing in common” (Strong, Thayer & Vine).
3. How is “fellowship” [KOINŌNÍA] used in the New Testament?

THE “FELLOWSHIP” (KOINŌNÍA) TEXTS…

1. Fellowship with God, His Son & the Holy Spirit. (1 Cor. 1.9; 2 Cor. 13.14; Phil. 2.1; 1 John 1.3 [2x], 6, 7)
2. Relational fellowship – “right hand of fellowship.” (Gal. 2.9)
3. Fellowship in worship for spiritual purposes. (Acts 2.42)
4. Fellowship between light & darkness. (2 Cor. 6.14)
5. Fellowship in benevolence. (Rom. 15.26; 2 Cor. 8.4; 9.13; Phlm. 6; Heb. 13.16)
6. Fellowship in a preacher’s financial support. (Phil. 1.5)
7. Fellowship in Christ’s sufferings. (Phil. 3.10)
8. Fellowship in the Lord’s Supper. (1 Cor. 10.16 [2x])

SOME IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS…

1. While engaging in fellowship often involves physical actions on our part, it never refers to specific non-spiritual activities.
2. Many churches emphasize the physical over the spiritual.
3. “Have no fellowship [sugkoinoneō] with the unfruitful works of darkness…” (Eph. 5.11; cf., 2 Cor. 6.14-17).
4. Look for “fellowship” opportunities. (Acts 2.42; 2 Cor. 8.4)

Conclusion: Inspiration chose its words carefully, so should we…