stephen R Harrison

(Read Philippians 1:5, 7b)

Paul was thankful for the Philippians foremost for their partnership in the gospel (v. 5).  The word “partnership” is the word koinonia or “fellowship.”  Christian fellowship hinges on sharing the gospel.  Paul said the gospel was “the gospel I preached to you, which you received, on which you have taken your stand and by which you are being saved” (1 Corinthians 15:1-2).  Here we see the gospel is preached, received, foundational, and saving!  According to the Scriptures (vv. 3-4), Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection are the substance of the church’s fellowship.  It’s the glue that begins, forms, and holds believers.  Cooperation in it is one of the main reasons the church assembles.  The gospel is the mission of the local church!

Fellowship in the gospel is the act of believers contributing to the gospel’s spread.  This happens through praying, going, and giving.  This can happen as you pray for gospel opportunities and those on the mission field.  Fellowship is also taking the gospel to neighborhoods and nations.  Fellowship happens when we give to local, national, and global gospel engagements.  The Philippians gave to Paul’s missionary efforts (4:10-20).  If Christians aren’t praying, going, and giving towards gospel efforts, they are not in fellowship!

Although Paul was imprisoned while writing this epistle, his joy was complete because the gospel was still being furthered.  Sharing the gospel was also sharing in God’s grace (1:7), as we are saved by grace through faith (Eph 2:5, 8). Paul and the Philippian believers were tied together by more than simple means.  He “had them in his heart” (1:7).  Not only were they sharing the gospel, but they were also “defending and confirming” it as well.  This caused Paul to be imprisoned, which would have caused some sorrow and despair.  However, he was joyful and thankful.  They were fellow workers and partners of grace.  They were joined by gospel mandate and mission, not worldly frivolities.  The gospel must be the basis of our Christian fellowship.  Without it, we cannot call it fellowship!  Thank God for gospel partners!

Questions for the Head (Think)

• Is sharing, defending, confirming, preaching, and receiving the gospel a foundation of yours in fellowship with other believers?

Reflection for the Heart (Worship)

• Pray for God to increase your gospel partnership (praying, going, giving) in your local church.

Action for the Hands (Do)

• Discuss gospel opportunities with fellow believers (small group, Sunday School class, etc.).  How can you pray, give, and go?