January 14, 2016
Scripture Reading: 1 John 1:3-4
3We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4We write this to make our joy complete.
Questions for Reflection:
According to verse 3, why did John share what he had experienced with the church? Often when the word “fellowship” is used in church circles, it seems like an overly religious term for hanging out or quality time. “Oh, I really enjoyed the fellowship with you.” A couple of years ago, our Creative Arts team put together a short video joking about some of the language we can use in Christian circles.
The fact is though the the term “fellowship” is important. According to Stephen Smalley, “the Greek word literally means ‘joint ownership,’ or ‘partnership.’” So John says to the church that he wants them to understand what he had witnessed so that they could be co-owners, partners in the ministry. And who does John say that their fellowship is with? John ups the game: it’s not just about being connected as church members; it’s about being connected to God Himself.
Gary Burge writes about Christian fellowship in his commentary on John’s letters. “Christian fellowship is triangular: my life in fellowship with Christ, your life in fellowship with Christ, and my life in fellowship with yours.” The goal in Christian relationships is that we help each other become more like Christ. Who has God put in your life that can help you trust and follow Jesus? Who has God put into your life that you can help trust and follow Jesus? Who has God put in your life so that you can have a deeper relationship that makes you both more like Jesus? Spend time today in prayer reflecting on the relationships that has God has given you. Ask Him to help you make Him the center of those relationships.