“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you… 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” — Philippians 1:3,5
As we have been studying Philippians together as a church, this one word at the beginning of the letter really captured my heart: partnership.
It comes from the Greek word koinōnia, which is translated as fellowship. We use this word a lot in church, but often make far less of it than it deserves. When we hear fellowship, we typically think of attending a church service or hanging out with people we enjoy being around. But the word for sure means so much more!
It describes a shared life shaped by God Himself. Where believers are joined in purpose, invested in one another, and growing together in Christ. All while carrying out the Great Commission side by side.
Recently, my son has been reading J.R.R Tolkien’s classics “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of The Rings.” (I naturally won’t let him watch the movies until he finishes the books, as any good father would do ;)) When reading, you can’t help but notice that Tolkien paints a very similar picture of this ‘koinōnia’ fellowship.
Think about it. You have a group of misfits who the quest brings together on an impossible journey. One that they could never accomplish alone. There are the fuzzy-footed Hobbits, some loud and stubborn dwarves, a wizard who comes and goes as he pleases, and even an emo elf!! They are all very different individuals and do not think the exact same way. Marching to the beat of a different drum, they often frustrate one another. Yet they become more than friends because of a shared partnership in a mission that is bigger than themselves. And together they accomplish what none of them could do alone.
Paul Sees The Church The Same Way.
Yes, we’re all very different. We all have our own preferences, flaws, and struggles. But as partners in the Gospel, those things are not what define or divide us. What ultimately binds us together is Jesus. So that our partnership does not collapse at the first sign of friction.
It holds because He holds us.
And then, together, we carry out the mission God has called us to. Accomplishing more than we ever could on our own.
Paul understands that God isn’t just building casual friendships in the church. He forms koinōnia people who will live, serve, carry burdens, and persevere together for the sake of Christ. Also, he thanks God for them!
Let me ask you today: Who are the koinōnia partners in your life?
I encourage you to take a moment today to thank God for them. Thank Him for those who make you feel at home. Give thanks for those who are and aren’t exactly like you. Offer thanks to Him for those who encourage you and support you in your walk with Jesus!
Just like those unlikely companions in Middle-earth, God places people in your life for your good.
May we never take for granted our koinōnia friends.
Your partner in the Gospel,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor