June 1, 2025

The nature of the Church is described most often as family. This term implies a number of important principals. Families are the smallest and arguable the most important social structure. Our primary allegiance and closest relationships are with our family (1 Tim 5:8). 

If the Church is the household of God then we are brothers and sisters. We should value our relationships with brethren as we do our own families. We should miss them when we don’t see them. We should be concerned about their well-being; we should help them when they are in need. We should take an interest in their lives. 

Caring about people this way doesn’t just happen. These kinds of relationships take time and attention. There is no question that each Christian should endeavour to get to know and spend time with brethren. 

The local congregation also has a role in facilitating this relationship development. Certainly, the teaching ministry needs to work to impart these principals. In addition, the congregation should look for ways to make fellowship a part of each of our regular meetings. Something like coffee before and after Sunday service or areas of the building with chairs and tables for people to gather. Specific events that are planned with an eye toward fellowship are important as well. 

Many churches have potluck meals together. This is great, events outside the building like sports or activities can add options that allow for mutual shared interests among brethren. In planning these the physical abilities of some may need to be considered and accommodated. This is not to say we exclude considering activities or events it just means we provide options that will be appealing to different groups. Some may like a quilting group while others want to go on a hike or play paint ball. The latter may sound like youth group activities but there is great value in keeping as many events as possible open to all generations.

The encouragement and camaraderie of the local congregation is a wonderful blessing that God has provided. Let us be thankful for it and seek ways to embrace fellowship in our individual and congregational lives.

~ Kevin Cleary