The Difference Between Relationship and Fellowship
The Bible, specifically in 1 John 1, delves into the profound concepts of relationship and fellowship, shedding light on their distinct but interconnected natures. These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they hold unique significance within the Christian faith. This article will explore the difference between relationship and fellowship based on the teachings of 1 John 1.
Relationship: The Foundation
"What is relationship?" The question arises when we examine the essence of our connection with God. According to 1 John 1, it is crucial to understand that we are born into a relationship with God that cannot be broken. This relationship was established from the beginning of creation.
Man, however, spiritually died as a result of the Fall and needed to be born again, to be restored to this divine relationship. This rebirth is possible by accepting the free gift of God through Jesus Christ. In essence, it is this relationship with God that underpins our entire Christian journey.
Moreover, relationship is the prerequisite for fellowship. In other words, you cannot have fellowship without first establishing a relationship with God.
Fellowship: The Expression
"What is fellowship?" It is the natural outgrowth of a relationship with God. It is the dynamic, interactive aspect of the relationship, where believers enjoy the benefits of their connection with the divine.
Fellowship is inextricably tied to relationship; you cannot separate one from the other. Once you have established a relationship with God, you can partake in the fellowship with Him. The New Testament uses the Greek word "Koinonia" for fellowship, and it's best understood as "holding all things in common," as described in Acts 2:44: "Now all the believers were together and held all things in common."
However, it's important to note that our fellowship is not primarily built around ourselves or each other. Instead, it is centered on God. As 1 John 1:3 tells us, "Our fellowship is with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ." This foundational focus on God ensures that we have the fellowship we need as individuals and with each other.
The Role of Truth in Fellowship
Truth plays a central role in fellowship. In 1 John 1:6, it is written, "If we say, 'We have fellowship with him,' and yet we walk in darkness, we are lying and are not practicing the truth." Truth is often symbolized as light, and it has the power to dispel darkness.
Our fellowship is dependent on truth – truth about our sin, truth about our needs, and truth about the Gospel. It's not enough to merely possess knowledge of the truth; we must live it out. Walking in the light means living according to the truth, and this is essential for genuine fellowship.
Confession: The Facilitator of Fellowship
Confession is a pivotal element in fostering and maintaining fellowship. In 1 John 1:8-10, the text says, "If we say, 'We have no sin,' we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say, 'We have not sinned,' we make him a liar, and his word is not in us."
Confession is a recognition of our imperfections and a humbling admission of our need for God's forgiveness. When we deny our sin or refuse to confess it, our fellowship with God is hindered, and by extension, our fellowship with one another is also affected. Remember, our primary fellowship is with God Himself.
Conclusion: A Joyous Journey
Fellowship is what infuses the Christian life with joy, as expressed in 1 John 1:4: "We are writing these things so that our joy may be complete."
This joyous life of fellowship happens when we willingly and readily confess our sins to God. He is faithful and righteous to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. He promised to forgive, and He paid the price for our sins through Jesus Christ. This divine exchange, this connection with God through both relationship and fellowship, is what makes the Christian journey truly transformative and joyful.
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Dr. Tim Searcy