Understanding the Concept of Fellowship with God

As a priest, my understanding of the concept of fellowship with God is deeply influenced by various verses in the scripture. In the New Testament, we come across the Greek word ‘koinonia’, which translates to fellowship. This word refers to partnership, sharing in common, communion, and majorly signifies agreement or unity of purpose. In its simplest terms, fellowship with God means agreeing with Him in all aspects of life. Not only are we assured of a partnership with God the Father, but we also share a fellowship with His Son and the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 1:9; 2 Corinthians 13:14; 1 John 1:3).

To establish fellowship, a oneness of the heart is crucial, a shared factor that connects two entities: “Can two walk together unless they are agreed?” (Amos 3:3). Fundamentally, fellowship is a matter of like-mindedness. As suggested by Paul, we avoid being “unequally yoked with unbelievers” because what partnership can righteousness forge with lawlessness? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14). Due to the Holy Spirit, believers can enjoy genuine fellowship, something that is not attainable with those who don’t accept Christ (John 14:17).

Our fellowship with God is only possible through the sacrificial blood of Christ. Prior to our salvation, we were God’s enemies (Colossians 1:21). However, through Jesus’ death, we were reconciled with God (Romans 5:10). Upon repenting our sins and pledging our faith in Christ, we come to “live in fellowship with the true God because we live in fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ” (1 John 5:20).

Of great significance is the fact that fellowship with God is exclusively offered through Christ. Jesus being the only route to the Father (John 14:6), and other paths envisioned by humanity through false religions or attempts to earn His approval, will not foster fellowship with God. If we reject God’s Son (1 John 5:10–11) or dispute His planned salvation, we cannot expect to be in His presence.

Certain behaviors, such as a mindset controlled by the flesh that refuses “to submit to God’s law” (Romans 8:7), or the fostering of a “friendship with the world” (James 4:4), are inconsistent with our fellowship with God. It is stated that God is light, and there can be no communion between light and darkness: “If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth” (1 John 1:6–7).

Those cherished believers who are in fellowship with God trust Christ and have their sins forgiven. They are filled with the Spirit and always pursue spiritual wisdom and insight to grow their knowledge of God (Ephesians 1:17, NLT). They believe that God deserves glorification in all things.

The Bible is all we need to maintain our fellowship with Him. We glorify Him through submission to His will and obedience to His commands. As the Psalm 103:17 says, “But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD’s love is with those who fear him,” let us bask in the serenity, contentment, and joy provided by the fellowship with God. Let us strive to walk in close fellowship with God as Enoch did (Genesis 5:24, NLT).

Our ultimate goal in fellowship with God is not just about a personal relationship, but to become more like Christ and to join God in His mission in the world. Through understanding the concept of fellowship with God, we can draw closer to God and grow spiritually.