Fellowship
Category
Christian Life & Growth
Biblical Definition
Shared participation in Christ and in His people, marked by communion, partnership, and mutual care.
Origin(s)
Greek: κοινωνία
Transliteration
koinōnia
Literal meaning
participation, sharing, fellowship
Key Scripture(s)
Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 1:9; 1 Corinthians 10:16; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Philippians 1:5; 1 John 1:3,7
Theological Significance
Fellowship shows that salvation creates a communion, not isolated spirituality. Union with Christ necessarily draws believers into a shared life of love, truth, service, and participation in the gospel.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
Biblical fellowship is more than sociability or casual time together. It is spiritual sharing grounded in the gospel and shaped by holiness and truth.
Practical Application
Fellowship calls believers into committed church life, honest relationships, shared burdens, and active partnership in ministry.