Category: Fellowship

The second chapter of the book of Acts records the activities of Christians at the dawn of the church’s existence. “Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved” (vs. 44-47).

The text reveals an idyllic state among the people of God — one to which we today should aspire. Luke quickly begins to recount sin among the brethren (Acts 5), cultural conflicts (Acts 6) as well as persecution from without (Acts 7). But, early on there was only joy and encouragement as brethren showed hospitality toward each other, and came together in praise and worship to God.

No doubt such joy is available to Christians today. It is possible for righteous people of God to have the same mind, to endure opposition, and maintain the peace and joy that comes from our common heritage. It must be fostered and maintained, but it is possible, and it is a state God desires for his people.

If you want that joy, then do as they did in Acts 2. Assemble with the saints to worship God. Show love to your brethren through benevolence and hospitality. Thank God for the wonderful blessings you receive. Be glad for who you are, and the hope of heaven you enjoy. It is wonderful to be a child of God, and to rejoice in the hope of heaven!

An expository lesson covering the text of Romans 15:1-6. God calls us to unity, to be of one mind, and one mouth as we receive one another.

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The sermon explains the proper relationship the Christian should sustain with those who have not accepted Christ as their Savior.

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The apostle Paul truly had a great love for his brethren in Philippi. He said as much when he wrote, “I have you in my heart,” (7) and “how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ” (8). This love stemmed equally from his “deep concern for all the churches” (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:28), and from their fellowship “in the gospel from the first day until now” (5).

For Paul, the expression of love went far beyond mere platitudes. It was shown in the continual petitions he made on their behalf before God. He thanked his God “upon every remembrance of you” (3). His opportunity to pray on their behalf was described by the apostle as a joy because of their assistance, and his affection.

His commendation was deserved. Because of their ministration to him, he described the Philippians as “both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel … partakers with me of grace” (7). Not all of us are capable of such active defense of the faith as the great apostle. However, it is within the capabilities of all Christians to have fellowship in grace by helping those who do!

Walking in the light of God’s will reaps great benefits, including: Fellowship with other Christians, access to the cleansing blood of Christ, joy and exaltation and the assurance we will never stumble (cf. 1 John 1:7).

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Powerpoint Slides

Speaker: Dennis Scroggins

Dennis discusses objections made concerning the marking of error, defense of truth, and the nature of autonomy in this lesson.

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What are the requirements of membership in the Lord’s church? Whether the church as the term refers to body of believers, or the local congregation? And, who is it that determines those requirements?

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Powerpoint Slides

The Apostles John (2 John 9-11), Paul (1 Corinthians 1:10-ff, 1 Timothy 6:1-5) and Peter (2 Peter 2:1-2) show that it is absurd to proclaim tolerance for those who teach and practice error. This may be the way of the world, but it is not God’s way.

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The principle of love calls for acceptance of one another. The lesson examines the context and its limits, while encouraging Christians to seek unity in Christ. (Romans 15:1-7).

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To be a partaker of Christ (from the text of Hebrews 3:14) speaks both to the blessings of the relationship as well as the obligation of steadfastness that is seen in the context. The sermon examines the Privileges and Responsibilities of such a fellowship.

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Sermon by Kris Braddock – Third of three sermons discussing in detail the basis for fellowship in unity. In this lesson Kris establishes that the call for unity based on doctrinal uniformity does not demand perfection. Our Lord makes provision for growth and maturity.

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Sermon by Kris Braddock – Second of three sermons discussing in detail the basis for fellowship in unity. In this lesson Kris shows that those with a good heart, and a willingness to study together, can come to unity in matters of faith.

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Sermon by Kris Braddock – First of three sermons discussing in detail the basis for fellowship in unity. This lesson establishes the fundamental truths upon which the series is based.

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A simple examination of the limits of fellowship, and the practice and purpose of church discipline.

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The sermon establishes God’s intent in directing Christian’s to withdraw their fellowship from the unrepentant sinner among them. In doing so, the faithful protect themselves from the leavening influence of sin, and seek to bring the sinner to repentance. (1 Corinthians 5)

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