Fellowship in the Gospel

Philippians 1:5

I.                     To have fellowship in the gospel refers to our companionship or a mutual association of persons on equal and friendly terms.

a.      We enjoy this special relationship with other believers and the Godhead I John 1:3,Philippians 2:1

b.      God has formed a society of believers Acts 2:42

c.      This joint interest separates us from true fellowship with those who seek other things I Corinthians 10:16, 20, II Corinthians 6:14, Ephesians 5:11

II.                   The Biblical word fellowship here refers to forming a partnership

a.      A partnership is where two or more parties are characterized by mutual cooperation and responsibility for the achievement of a specific goal in this case the gospel of Jesus Christ Philippians 1:5

b.      The apostles agreed and divided the work to achieve the goal Galatians 2:9

c.      It is the idea of being in the yoke together Matthew 11:28-30, Philippians 4:3

d.      The special relationship between comrades in arms, David’s mighty men

III.                  Fellowship requires participation

a.      By our commitment of time, energy, resources, and abilities

b.      By our faithfulness—from the first day until now Philippians 1:5

                                                              i.      Don’t look back Luke 9:62—in the battle you do not want to wonder where your fellow workers are

                                                            ii.      By remembering and praying for each other Philippians 1:4

c.      Even in his suffering Philippians 3:10

d.      By our going and giving Philippians 4:10-18, II Corinthians 8:4, 9:13

IV.               The word fellowship speaks of sharing in the gains or losses incurred by the partners

a.      Suffering with Him Matthew 20:23, Philippians 1:29

b.      Glorified with Him Romans 8:17, Luke 22:29-30, I John 5:4 Revelation 3:21, 21:7, I Corinthians 2:9