Paul expressed thanksgiving for the disciples in Philippi, writing, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now” (Philippians 1:3-5).
The word “fellowship” used here describes a wonderful truth that brings blessings to God’s people. While all may not have the same talent, capability and opportunity to share the gospel message, we are able to have fellowship in the work by supporting those who can and do! Fellowship is defined as “joint participation, association, intercourse.” Put simply, if I support a man who preaches the gospel, by extension I am participating in that work!
Jesus used the same illustration in the offering of benevolence and hospitality to the poor. Remember the question of the righteous in Luke 25:37, “Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink?” Jesus answered, “Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me” (Luke 25:40).
Let’s call this ‘preaching by association.’ The Philippians sent Epaphroditus to Paul while he was in prison in Rome to minister to his needs (cf. Philippians 2:15). We are told that Epaphroditus’ trip (leading to sickness), and his help offered to Paul was “for the work of Christ” (2:30). He noted that the support offered by the Philippians was a sharing in his distress (4:14), and was found in their “giving and receiving” (4:15) with him. In effect they gave materially, and he received their support. It was “aid once and again for [Paul’s] necessities” (4:16). Because of this, their support was “a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God” (4:18). Because of their support, Paul said that “God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (4:19).
Gaius was another who showed hospitality and support for worthy brethren who preached truth. He was commended by the apostle John, “Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do for the brethren and for strangers, who have borne witness of your love before the church. If you send them forward on their journey in a manner worthy of God, you will do well, because they went forth for His name’s sake, taking nothing from the Gentiles. We therefore ought to receive such, that we may become fellow workers for the truth” (3 John 5-8).
There is a flip side to this concept of fellowshipping with others in their work. Gaius was commended for his fellowship with those who were working for truth. However, John also condemned any who would support (show hospitality to) those who were teaching error! “Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds” (2 John 9-11).
The word “shares” in 2 John 11 is the same Greek word translated “fellowship” in Philippians 1:5. If we offer hospitality to one who is teaching error, we are participating with him in that work. This is a very sobering verse, that we would do well to heed. Be careful who you endorse with your support or hospitality. Offering succor to one who teaches implies endorsement, whether it is truth or error.
Are you a “fellow worker” for truth? Or, are you sharing in “evil deeds”? Your soul may hang in the balance!
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