Blog 15 - The Art of Fellowship

 

The Art of Fellowship

Read:

• Romans 15

Imagine an orchestra tuning before a performance. Each instrument has its unique sound and purpose, but unless they harmonize under the conductor's guidance, the result is chaos. Fellowship within the body of Christ is much like this. Each believer brings something unique, but unity under Christ—the ultimate "Conductor"—is essential for glorifying God. Romans 15 teaches us how to live in harmony, bearing one another’s burdens, welcoming diversity, and working together toward a shared mission.

You can clearly see from this passage it is a continuation of the previous chapter. Paul is still talking to the Christian’s who are “strong in faith” and is continuing the sense of unity we should have in supporting each other, especially those who are “weak” in faith.

Bearing one Another’s Burdens (Verse 1-6)

Paul tells us that we should support those who are “weak.” He echoes this in Galatians 6:2, where believers are to “bear one another’s burdens.” We should help one another before pleasing ourselves. (v1) Its like in a sports team, we should do what’s best for the team and not ourselves. It’s the same with the Body of Christ and Fellow believers, we should do our best to build each other up and do what’s best for the body and what’s best for our own selfish gain. We even see Christ’s examples of selflessness in verse 3 where it reminds us that Christ didn’t do what pleased Him, prioritises us and the people around Him. Warren Wiersbe calls this the “ministry of burden bearing”. But you may feel ill equipped for the this, like you struggle to relate to others, or you struggle in encouraging others. Well verse 4 tells us that the scriptures equip us as God’s word gives us comfort and hope. So, aim to encourage one another with God’s word and aim to build each other up.

Welcoming one Another (Verses 7-13)

In verse 7, Paul says, “Therefore, receive one another, just as Christ also received us.” The Greek word for receive is proslambano, meaning to welcome someone with hospitality and kindness, bringing them into friendship or fellowship. This is how we’re called to treat others, even those we dislike or disagree with—just as Christ welcomed us. Verses 5 and 6 remind us of God’s patience and call us to be like-minded with Christ in how we treat others. Jesus’ actions in the Gospels serve as our blueprint for showing kindness and hospitality, with the ultimate goal of glorifying God together.

In earlier chapters, Paul addressed the division between Jewish and Gentile Christians. The Jews saw themselves as God’s chosen people, but Paul consistently taught that salvation was for all. In verses 9-12, Paul quotes the Old Testament to show that God’s plan has always included the Gentiles. These verses highlight themes of praise (verses 9 and 11), thankfulness (verse 10), God’s sovereignty, and hope (verse 12). This reveals God’s mercy to all nations, inspiring mutual acceptance and unity among believers.

Paul concludes this section with a prayer in verse 13: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” The word believing comes from the Greek pisteuo, meaning to trust or put faith in. Paul emphasizes that our hope, joy, and peace are rooted in faith in God. As we trust Him, He equips and fills us through the Holy Spirit, enabling us to live in unity and show true fellowship. For unity, hospitality, and kindness aren’t just nice ideas, but they are evidence of a life transformed by God’s Spirit.

Paul’s Mission and Ministry (Verses 14-21)

Paul’s mission to the Gentiles is a practical example of fellowship on a grand scale. He didn’t just preach to those like him; he reached across cultural and spiritual divides to bring people into the family of God. His ministry reflects the humility and hospitality we’re called to show, as Paul saw himself as a servant of Christ, not a self-made leader (v17-18). Fellowship isn’t limited to local communities; it’s a global effort to glorify God together.

Plans and Prayers for Fellowship (Verses 22-33)

Paul’s travel plans reflect his deep desire for fellowship with other believers. He longed to visit Rome, not only to share encouragement but also to be refreshed by their mutual faith (v24, 32). His prayer for them shows that true fellowship thrives when underpinned by prayer and shared mission.

Fellowship isn’t just about sharing meals or sitting together in church; it’s about embodying Christ’s love in every interaction. Romans 15 challenges us to pursue unity, hospitality, and kindness, treating others with the same grace we’ve received from Christ. Ask yourself: “How can I reflect Christ’s heart in my relationships this week?” Is there someone you’ve struggled to welcome or a disagreement that needs healing? True fellowship starts when we prioritize God’s glory over our preferences and lean on the Holy Spirit to equip us with joy, peace, and hope.

Lord, thank you the hope that you have given us. Thank you that we can come together as a body of believers to come together and have fellowship for your glory. Equip us the kindness and love towards others that we may build each other up for your glory. Amen.

Going Deeper Questions

1. What does it mean to “bear with the failings of the weak” (v1)? How can you practically live this out in your relationships with others in your church or community?
2. How does Christ’s example of selflessness and acceptance (v7) challenge the way you treat people who think or act differently from you?
3. In verses 9-12, Paul emphasizes God’s plan to include all nations. How does this shape your view of unity and diversity within the Body of Christ?
4. Paul prays for joy, peace, and hope through the power of the Holy Spirit (v13). How can these qualities help strengthen your fellowship with others? Where do you need to seek God’s help to grow in these areas?
5. Paul's ministry (v14-21) and his plans for fellowship (v22-33) demonstrate a mission-focused life. How can you contribute to God’s mission while fostering deeper connections with fellow believers?