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THE IMPORTANCE OF FELLOWSHIP
MONDAY, DECEMBER 29
1 Thessalonians 5:25-26

Hebrews 10:24-25

 

“Brethren, pray for us.”

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF FELLOWSHIP
 
What is a “holy kiss”? In the culture of the Near East during New Testament times, it was a common greeting among family and friends to kiss one another. It did not have any romantic or sensual connotations, but was a simple platonic act used as a friendly greeting and nothing more. Our modern-day equivalent could be a good firm handshake. Note that Paul added the word “holy,” signifying that it was not just social interactions that he was exhorting them to have, but pure undefiled relationships, where they gathered because of their bond in Christ. Paul also requested for the brethren to pray for him. In the verses before that, he shared the prayers he was making for them. He understood the value of intercessory prayer, of having brethren to pray for one another. This is something that all believers must actively do for one another.
 
Through both these simple instructions, we see a call to fellowship. Fellowship is important in every believer’s life. In order to pray for one another and have opportunities to greet one another, we must first be in one another’s lives. If we seclude ourselves from any fellowship, we would not know much about what is going on in others’ lives and would not know what to pray for. Likewise, if we do not spend time with one another, then there would be no cause for greetings or “holy kisses.”
 
If we truly care for our fellow brethren, we would want to spend time to edify and encourage one another. It is sad to see so many worshippers rushing off right after worship each Lord’s Day, not caring to stay back for fellowship. They are seldom involved in any Bible study or fellowship group. For a church to be more vibrant and effective, we all must do our part in godly fellowship, to get to know one another and say a kind word of encouragement. Simple things like these go a long way towards fostering closer ties of fellowship. As we are exhorted in Hebrews 10:24-25, let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, but rather, constantly think of one another and have opportunities to provoke one another unto love and good works.
 
THOUGHT: How well do I know my fellow believers in church?
PRAYER: Father, help me to understand the importance of fellowship and to be involved in the lives of my fellow saints.

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