Koinonia

“God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Cor. 1:9).   

The first chapter of the gospel of John tells us that “as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name”. It’s that simple, believe in Him and you are a child of God.  Through sincere faith in Jesus Christ, a new relationship with the living God is born.  You are a “child of God”.  Of course, there is much more to the Christian faith than your initial act of believing. Nevertheless, by that faith you are saved and become a member of the family of God. Now that you are part of the family of God, the Lord to whom you are related longs for there to be “koinonia” in that relationship.  Koinonia is the fellowship that our opening verse declares that we, as “children of God”, are all called to experience. Relationship speaks of a legal act or a transaction. We believe and He are His children. By faith we formally enter into a relationship with God.

Fellowship is what God offers to those who are part of His heavenly family.  Your fellowship with God is the daily consummating testimony that you are in an eternal relationship with the Almighty God. Jesus said it was better for us that He return to Heaven so that the Holy Spirit could come (Jn.16:7). That was because it was through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit that we might experience “koinonia”. He said the Holy Spirit would lead and guide us, testify within us, speak to us, and comfort us. Each of these activities speak of things that come from fellowship with the Holy Spirit.  Paul often wrote of this fellowship that the believer is privileged to have through the Holy Spirit (2 Co. 13:14, Php.2:1).

The depth and sincerity of any relationship can only be measured by the actual fellowship that exists between its members. Take time today to cultivate that relationship through fellowship with God.  Fellowship requires a two-way conversation. Today, when you turn to God in prayer, make sure you take time to listen to His side of the conversation, for fellowship includes dialogue and not simply monologue. In this fellowship, you will learn to discern His will and understand His word. Most importantly, in that fellowship you will grow to better recognize His voice and more fully comprehend the depth of His love for you.