Embracing Fellowship: The Heart of Christian Community
Summary
This morning, we return to our series "Dear Church" after a brief hiatus. Before diving back in, I want to acknowledge Matt Champ for his excellent message last week. Let's begin with a prayer. Heavenly Father, thank you for calling us into fellowship with you and with one another. Help us face the things that divide us and seek your love. Amen. [01:34]
I want to share a story my dad often used in his sermons, with my own twist. It's called "The Leaf." In a great forest, a mighty oak stood tall, its leaves bristling in the wind. The oak soaked up sunlight and water, providing life to its leaves. One leaf, however, envied the birds, butterflies, and higher leaves. One day, a strong breeze snapped the leaf free from the tree. Initially, it felt liberated, but soon it realized that its newfound freedom led to its demise. The leaf turned from green to yellow, then red, and finally brown, crumbling into death. This story illustrates how Christians often suffer from a fellowship problem, believing that life outside the church is better. [07:11]
Many claim faith in Christ but reject fellowship with other believers, while others prioritize worldly fellowship over spiritual fellowship. This isn't a call to isolate ourselves; we should engage with the world but not disconnect from the body of Christ. The real issue is how we value the church. Our fellowship with God is the edge of the coin that holds these two sides together. Do we trust God to remain with us even when we've been hurt or have hurt others? Do we trust Him to help us discern truth from lies and guard our hearts? Our answers reveal the health of our fellowship with God and His church. [11:12]
Fellowship is a recurring theme in the writings of John, from his epistles to Revelation. It's about walking in truth and welcoming one another, not based on our level of understanding but because we are all called by Jesus Christ. Third John encourages us to support our brothers and sisters, address division, and confront the abuse of authority. Open your Bibles to Third John and follow along. Highlight verses that stand out to you, challenge you, or encourage you. This is an interactive way to engage with God. [14:25]
Fellowship is not just a church term; it signifies a close relationship based on shared common ground. Through Jesus Christ, we have companionship with God, not as equals but as disciples. Fellowship with God is not optional for believers. It is through Him that we produce fruit and reveal the life of the vine to others. Fellowship with one another is also not optional. We are still sinners being sanctified, and we should love one another through the process. The growing concept that one can follow Christ without fellowship with the church is often a response to hurt and abuse. However, this does not excuse isolating from the body of Christ. [19:35]
Hurt and abuse in the church are real and need to be addressed. We are not victims of sin but more than conquerors through Jesus Christ. Nothing can separate us from the love of God, and it should not separate us from the fellowship of the saints. We must open our arms to those who have been hurt and call out those who abuse, but do so in love for the purpose of restoration. We must remain connected to Christ, the vine, to produce fruit. The Apostle John loved his friend Gaius because of his faithfulness to the truth. How would the story of the leaf change if it had focused on the life it shared with the tree? [29:11]
We should not withhold fellowship from those who are strangers but welcome them as brothers and sisters in Christ. Even in failures, Christ is glorified. We are called to have open arms to restore the broken and fallen in love. May we all keep fellowship with God and one another in love and truth, welcoming all who come to the bride through the cross. As we conclude our morning's fellowship and worship, consider your walk in truth with God and one another. [36:57]
### Key Takeaways
1. The Importance of Fellowship: Fellowship with God and one another is crucial for a healthy Christian life. It is not optional but a fundamental aspect of our faith. We must trust God to remain with us even when we've been hurt or have hurt others. This trust reveals the health of our fellowship with God and His church. [11:12]
2. Walking in Truth: The writings of John emphasize the importance of walking in truth and welcoming one another. This means supporting our brothers and sisters, addressing division, and confronting the abuse of authority. Engaging with God's Word and highlighting key verses can help us understand and apply these principles in our lives. [14:25]
3. Fellowship as Companionship: Fellowship signifies a close relationship based on shared common ground. Through Jesus Christ, we have companionship with God, not as equals but as disciples. This relationship is essential for producing fruit and revealing the life of the vine to others. [19:35]
4. Addressing Hurt and Abuse: Hurt and abuse in the church are real and need to be addressed. We are not victims of sin but more than conquerors through Jesus Christ. Nothing can separate us from the love of God, and it should not separate us from the fellowship of the saints. We must open our arms to those who have been hurt and call out those who abuse, but do so in love for the purpose of restoration. [29:11]
5. Welcoming Strangers: We should not withhold fellowship from those who are strangers but welcome them as brothers and sisters in Christ. Even in failures, Christ is glorified. We are called to have open arms to restore the broken and fallen in love. May we all keep fellowship with God and one another in love and truth, welcoming all who come to the bride through the cross. [36:57]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:34] - Opening Prayer
[03:33] - The Story of the Leaf
[07:11] - The Fellowship Problem
[09:07] - Engaging with the World
[11:12] - Trusting God in Fellowship
[12:54] - The Importance of Fellowship in John's Writings
[14:25] - Interactive Engagement with Scripture
[16:17] - Reading Third John
[17:48] - Valuing Fellowship with Open Arms
[19:35] - Defining Fellowship
[21:43] - Fellowship with God is Not Optional
[23:45] - Fellowship with One Another
[25:20] - Addressing Hurt and Abuse
[27:15] - The Reality of Hurt in the Church
[29:11] - Overcoming Hurt through Christ
[30:56] - More than Conquerors
[32:47] - Remaining Connected to Christ
[34:48] - Welcoming Strangers in Fellowship
[36:57] - Concluding Thoughts on Fellowship
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. 3 John 1:1-14 - The entire chapter of 3 John, focusing on walking in truth, welcoming fellow believers, and addressing division and abuse of authority.
2. Romans 8:37-39 - "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
3. Acts 17:28 - "For in him we live and move and have our being."
### Observation Questions
1. What does 3 John 1:5-8 say about how we should treat fellow believers, especially when they are strangers? How does this relate to the concept of fellowship? [16:17]
2. According to Romans 8:37-39, what are some of the things that cannot separate us from the love of God? How does this assurance impact our fellowship with God and others? [29:11]
3. In Acts 17:28, what does it mean that "in him we live and move and have our being"? How does this verse connect to the idea of remaining connected to Christ, the vine? [32:47]
4. What are some of the key themes in 3 John that the pastor highlighted in the sermon? [12:54]
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the story of the leaf illustrate the dangers of seeking life outside of fellowship with the church? What lessons can we draw from this story about our own spiritual lives? [07:11]
2. What does it mean to walk in truth according to 3 John? How can this principle be applied in our daily interactions with fellow believers? [12:54]
3. How should the church address hurt and abuse within its community, according to the sermon? What is the purpose of calling out such behavior in love? [29:11]
4. How does the assurance in Romans 8:37-39 that nothing can separate us from the love of God influence our approach to fellowship, especially when we have been hurt or have hurt others? [30:56]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt disconnected from the church. What were the circumstances, and how did it affect your spiritual life? How can you take steps to reconnect with the body of Christ? [07:11]
2. How can you actively support and welcome fellow believers, especially those who are new or feel like strangers in your church community? What practical steps can you take this week? [16:17]
3. Have you ever experienced hurt or abuse within the church? How did you handle it, and what steps can you take to address and heal from that hurt while remaining connected to the body of Christ? [29:11]
4. In what ways can you walk in truth and encourage others to do the same? Identify specific actions or habits that can help you and your community stay grounded in the truth of the Gospel. [12:54]
5. How can you ensure that your fellowship with God remains strong and vibrant? What spiritual disciplines or practices can you incorporate into your daily routine to stay connected to the vine? [32:47]
6. Think of someone in your church who might be feeling isolated or disconnected. How can you reach out to them and offer support and fellowship? What specific actions can you take to make them feel welcomed and valued? [34:48]
7. How can you balance engaging with the world and maintaining a strong connection with the church? What are some practical ways to wear your faith on your sleeve while participating in worldly activities? [09:07]
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting God in Fellowship
Fellowship with God and one another is crucial for a healthy Christian life. It is not optional but a fundamental aspect of our faith. We must trust God to remain with us even when we've been hurt or have hurt others. This trust reveals the health of our fellowship with God and His church. Fellowship is not just about being physically present in church but about being spiritually connected to God and to each other. When we trust God, we can face the things that divide us and seek His love to overcome them.
Our fellowship with God is the glue that holds our relationships together. It is through this divine connection that we can discern truth from lies and guard our hearts against the enemy's attacks. Trusting God means believing that He will help us navigate the complexities of human relationships, especially within the church. It means believing that He will remain with us, guiding us and healing us, even when we face hurt and disappointment. [11:12]
1 John 1:7 (ESV): "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin."
Reflection: Think of a time when you felt hurt by someone in the church. How can you trust God to help you heal and restore that relationship today?
Day 2: Walking in Truth
The writings of John emphasize the importance of walking in truth and welcoming one another. This means supporting our brothers and sisters, addressing division, and confronting the abuse of authority. Engaging with God's Word and highlighting key verses can help us understand and apply these principles in our lives. Walking in truth is not just about knowing the truth but living it out in our daily interactions with others.
When we walk in truth, we create an environment where fellowship can thrive. We support one another, address conflicts with love, and stand against any form of abuse or misuse of authority. This kind of fellowship is rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, who called us to love one another as Christ loved us. By engaging with Scripture and allowing it to shape our actions, we can build a community that reflects the love and truth of Christ. [14:25]
3 John 1:4 (ESV): "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."
Reflection: Reflect on your interactions with others in the church. Are there areas where you need to address division or support someone in need? How can you walk in truth today?
Day 3: Fellowship as Companionship
Fellowship signifies a close relationship based on shared common ground. Through Jesus Christ, we have companionship with God, not as equals but as disciples. This relationship is essential for producing fruit and revealing the life of the vine to others. Fellowship with God is not optional for believers. It is through Him that we produce fruit and reveal the life of the vine to others.
Our companionship with God is a source of strength and guidance. It is through this relationship that we are able to grow spiritually and bear fruit in our lives. Fellowship with one another is also not optional. We are still sinners being sanctified, and we should love one another through the process. The growing concept that one can follow Christ without fellowship with the church is often a response to hurt and abuse. However, this does not excuse isolating from the body of Christ. [19:35]
John 15:4-5 (ESV): "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
Reflection: How can you deepen your companionship with God today? What steps can you take to ensure you are abiding in Him and producing fruit?
Day 4: Addressing Hurt and Abuse
Hurt and abuse in the church are real and need to be addressed. We are not victims of sin but more than conquerors through Jesus Christ. Nothing can separate us from the love of God, and it should not separate us from the fellowship of the saints. We must open our arms to those who have been hurt and call out those who abuse, but do so in love for the purpose of restoration.
Addressing hurt and abuse requires courage and compassion. It means acknowledging the pain and taking steps to bring healing and restoration. We must be willing to confront those who misuse their authority and create a safe space for those who have been hurt. This process should be done in love, with the goal of restoring relationships and building a stronger, healthier community. [29:11]
Galatians 6:1-2 (ESV): "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."
Reflection: Is there someone in your church who has been hurt and needs your support? How can you reach out to them in love and help them find healing and restoration?
Day 5: Welcoming Strangers
We should not withhold fellowship from those who are strangers but welcome them as brothers and sisters in Christ. Even in failures, Christ is glorified. We are called to have open arms to restore the broken and fallen in love. May we all keep fellowship with God and one another in love and truth, welcoming all who come to the bride through the cross.
Welcoming strangers is a reflection of God's love and grace. It means seeing others as God sees them and extending His love to them. This kind of fellowship is inclusive and compassionate, recognizing that we are all part of the body of Christ. By welcoming strangers, we create a community that reflects the heart of God and brings glory to His name. [36:57]
Hebrews 13:2 (ESV): "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
Reflection: Think of someone new or unfamiliar in your church. How can you extend a warm welcome to them and make them feel part of the community today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The leaf curled and unfurled cresting high on the wind much higher than the highest leaves still stuck to the tree. The sun touched the leaf and it exclaimed, 'See it is warmer up here now I'm the lucky one.' Of course, that didn't last long because as we know what goes up must come down. As the winds calmed, the leaf settled into an easy descent gently blowing from here to there and back again. 'This is living, this is life, I'm like a bird now flying and free,' it giggled with glee." [05:23]
2. "Dear friend, you are acting faithfully in whatever you do for the brothers and sisters, especially when they are strangers. They have testified to your love before the church. You will do well to send them on their journey in a manner worthy of God. Since they set out for the sake of the name, accepting nothing from pagans. Therefore, we ought to support such people so that we can be co-workers with the truth." [16:17]
3. "Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God. The one who does evil has not seen God. Everyone speaks well of Demetrius, even the truth itself. And we also speak well of him. And you know that our testimony is true." [17:48]
4. "Prosperity is success through breaking through a barrier. I hope that we break through to faith, to hope, and to love. Just as an apprentice will learn very little if he or she shrugs off the teachings of their master, we too will grow very little to not at all if we set aside God's word. If we ignore prayer or we've prioritized the world, above the kingdom of heaven." [21:43]
5. "The apostle John loved his friend and desired success and good health in this life for his friend, but his basis of love for Gaius wasn't born from Gaius's adherence to the law and to regulations but on his faithfulness to the truth to the salvation of Jesus Christ." [32:47]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Dear church, we need to remember fellowship. We need to value it with open arms. If we are too busy holding on to miscellaneous misconceptions and judgments and accusations and hurt that has happened in the past and your arms are closed, you can either receive what God has for you or receive the love that others have for you in his name. We need to remember fellowship and to value it with open arms, first with God and then with one another." [17:48]
2. "Through Jesus Christ, we have companionship with God, not as equals with God, but as disciples following in the master's footsteps. Through fellowship, he imparts his spiritual gifts to us, to work through us in showing his workmanship of grace and love to our fallen world. And as Christians, fellowship with God is not optional. Hear that. If you believe in Jesus Christ, fellowship with God is not optional because the way to the Father is through Jesus Christ." [19:35]
3. "Fellowship with one another gets pretty messy sometimes. We screw up. We screw up all the time. We are still sinners living sanctified to become saints. We should love one another in the process, not holding each other to some unattainable standard set by mankind, letting go of the hurt, forgiving, and walking through it with each other." [23:45]
4. "Hurt at this level is sadly common. The sinful unjust actions of others do not give us permission, however, to reject the body of Christ, the bride of Christ. See, we are not victims of sin. We like to paint ourselves that way. So and so did this to me and so this response is okay. I did this and so this is okay. We are not victims of sin, but we who have been called by Christ are more than conquerors by the blood of Jesus." [29:11]
5. "We are called to have open arms to restore the broken and the fallen in love, to restore the broken in love and to restore the broken in love. Rebuke those who accuse and abuse, but to do that as well in love and in truth because they too are broken and fallen and need to remember truth. May we all keep fellowship with God and with one another in love and truth, welcoming all who come to the bride through the cross." [34:48]
6. "Dear church, these questions have been addressed in recent weeks as we looked at both first and second John. And if you need the reminder, they're on YouTube, you could watch them. Fellowship is such an important topic and theme that John addresses it multiple times. First John, theme. Second John, theme. Third John, theme. Throughout the book of John, the theme. Revelation is all about fellowship with God and his return to have fellowship with us and the saints rising up together to stand with Jesus Christ." [12:54]
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