How can we actively participate in the fellowship mentioned in 1 Corinthians 1:9? The Call to Fellowship “God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:9) The word “called” is not optional; it is God’s decisive invitation into a shared, ongoing life with His Son and, by extension, with one another (1 John 1:3). Recognize Who Invites Us •The Father Himself initiates the relationship (John 6:44). •The fellowship centers on Jesus—His person, His work, His presence (Philippians 3:10). •The Holy Spirit empowers our participation (2 Corinthians 13:14). Daily Pathways Into Fellowship •Trust and confess Christ openly •“Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.” (1 John 4:15) •Abide in His Word •“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” (Colossians 3:16) •Gather faithfully with other believers •“Not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:25) •Devote yourself to shared worship elements •Teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers (Acts 2:42) •The Lord’s Supper: “Is not the cup of blessing… a participation in the blood of Christ?” (1 Corinthians 10:16) •Pray together and for one another •“They raised their voices together to God.” (Acts 4:24) •Bear burdens and share joys •“Carry one another’s burdens.” (Galatians 6:2) •“Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” (Romans 12:15) •Serve with your spiritual gifts •“Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others.” (1 Peter 4:10) •Guard unity earnestly •“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3) Hindrances to Fellowship •Unconfessed sin (1 John 1:6) •Divisive attitudes (1 Corinthians 1:10) •Neglecting assembly (Hebrews 10:25) •Pride and self-seeking (Philippians 2:3-4) Fruit of Walking in Fellowship •Deepened joy (1 John 1:4) •Mutual encouragement and spiritual growth (Romans 1:11-12) •Effective witness to the world (John 13:34-35) •Shared endurance through trials (Hebrews 3:13) •Glory given to God as one body (Romans 15:5-6) Living out 1 Corinthians 1:9 means actively responding to God’s faithful call, pursuing Christ-centered relationships, and letting every aspect of daily life—worship, service, unity, and love—draw us deeper into the fellowship of His Son. |