We are discovering together what the Bible says about wellbeing.
Otherwise, how can you live a more satisfied, fulfilling life? Recently we have
been discussing the 5 Scriptural tools to maturity (Acts 2:42, 47) as a means
to build powerful Biblically based wellbeing into our lives! The first three tools
were Scriptural knowledge, praise and prayer. Today, we discuss fellowship!
Fellowship is vital to our Christian walk. It may be best described
by the Greek word ‘koinonia’ (the New Testament was originally written in
Greek) which speaks of our partnership with fellow Christians in the
brotherhood in Christ. The basis of our fellowship is our mutual forgiveness in
Christ by grace (I John1:6-10) and that each of us are placed into the church
universal by the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians12:13).
Practically speaking, those of us in the church universal often express
our fellowship with those in the local church, church based small groups and close
Christian friends.
How then do we fellowship? Although fellowship ‘lite’ might be
merely being in the presence of another Christian, effectual fellowship depends
on several Biblical standards based on how we think and speak.
1.
Step I, Careful Reflection - Even before we interact with
another Christian we should consider how we can meet their needs; do they need
to be encouraged, taught, reminded of Scripture, or just to have a quiet and
listening friend? This takes a bit of time and prayerful reflection to know how
to best help other people and bear their burdens (Ephesians 4:30, Galatians 6:2).
2.
Step II, Effective Speaking – After reflecting, we need
verbally to convey our thinking to our friend or colleague based on their needs
and not to satisfy our own emotions (unless we are in desperate straits). Importantly,
our speech should be used as a tool for the good of other people to express:
gratitude, commendation, encouragement, admonishment and teaching (Ephesians
4:30, I Timothy 4:16, II Timothy 2:23-24).
These two steps, used together and sequentially, help assure
effectual fellowship with other believers so we can help fortify each other in
our faith, push each other on to greater acts of service, and a live a godly
lifestyle before our precious Father (Colossians 1:9-10, Hebrews 10:25).
Fellowship must be done in balance with the other for tools to maturity.
Thanks for joining me today. Please read next week's blog over the
5th and final tool to the church: outreach to other believers and non-Christians.
Can true fellowship occur outside a church building? To participate in our latest poll
question - please visit our website at http://teleiosresearch.com/#anchorpoll
WC Stewart
http://teleiosblog.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch/
@TeleiosResearch
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