For we are brethren
“And Abram said to Lot, “Please let there be no strife between me and you, and between my herdsmen and your herdsmen, for we are brethren.” (NKJV) Genesis 13:8
The booms in scientific discoveries in the 21st century have contributed to human interaction in various dimensions. People in the old times understood what it meant to worship God through fellowship with other believers. They travelled long distances with horses and chariots, and camels and over deserts to join other brethren in holy fellowship. Acts 8:27, for example, gives an account of a believer who moved from Ethiopia to Jerusalem just to worship and fellowship with the other believers. How has the improvement of physical means of communication and transportation contributed to Christian fellowship in this contemporary world?
Christian fellowship means sharing in common, holding a mutual interest, mutual activity, partnership with each other. It also involves participating in events that glorify the Lord God and develop the growth of other Christians. Christian fellowship goes beyond just coming around other believers to communicate and contribute to the ministry. It actually removes selfish, secular and artificial distinctions generally prevailing in the world. Thus, there are no social classes in Christian fellowship.
There are many blessings and benefits we gain through fellowship with brethren. For example, during worship services, the presence of God endows us with heavenly blessings and the Holy Spirit empowers us to remain faithful. We learn new skills and get opportunities to practice our God-given talents as we work with brethren. Other brethren are able to identify us and provide assistance in various ways that may go beyond our expectations. We feel a sense of belonging and gain encouragement as we share life stories of challenges we have been through.
People of God, Christianity is never an individualistic affair but a community of the faithful. Let us show our love to God always through fellowship with brethren. Let peace prevail among us and let us work together for God and His Kingdom, for we are brethren. Amen!