Hello Brothers and Sisters of all walks of life. I am new (at least semi-new). I have a question that i've been trying to base my answer on according to scripture or even in my prayer life. We are told by Jesus to be in one sound mind. We are told to also have fellowship with other believers and etc....However though what if our fellow brothers and sisters don't ever check up on other believers leaving them left out ? I guess what I am trying to ask is it normal for fellow brothers and sisters to have fellowship just one day out of the week and not check up on others ? Is that normal ? I face this question with my own-self and don't want to deceive myself but also in scripture if this attitude is normal.
Brother Arnold. That's a very good question which I'm sure many have thought through or have been likewise affected. If we consider the correct biblical position of the relationship between fellow brothers & sisters, then it's true, we must be vitally connected to each, yet without 'living in each other's shoes', so to speak, & ever be interested & concerned in each other's lives.
Of the early Church we read in Acts 2:41-47, that they continued very regularly in each other's company around the Word, prayers, the Lord's Table & fellowship. They also shared of their goods with each other since many were poor, thus avoiding anyone suffering & maybe losing faith. Their love for man even extended to some selling possessions so others outside the faith may not be in want. So this gives us a fairly good picture of the type of relationship that the believers were having: one of great concern for both those in Christ & those outside Christ.
Fast forward a couple thousand of years & we still see (or, should see) a similar concern for those in need, yet our culture, size of congregations, distance between peoples' homes, heavy family/work commitments, & a whole lot of other reasons, seem to impinge on believers maintaining a special closeness & involvement with each other. And somehow we do manage to keep in touch by phone (which the early believers didn't have & so a regular gathering together was important). Some might feel that the Pastor or his Assistant should be following through with their congregations - & of course, this is correct, but I think you might also be thinking of closer friendships or bonds being formed. In smaller congregations, folk easily keep in touch with each other regularly - not so much in larger ones. If you're sensing this in your Fellowship, do they have events that bring the folk together (e.g. fellowship meals, Bible studies, outreaches, etc.)? These 'extras', really help to bring others closer together & show more care for each other.
I would like to thank you so much for the reply and the time that was taken in doing so my brother. As I very well know that the Holy Spirit is the one who really reveals all truth to us. The church I am attending right now is small not big but members are slowly decreasing. And although they are older folk (which I don't mind)I get the sense of spiritual laziness in this church and it hurts me to see this. If we are to take up the shield of faith and listen and obey to what Jesus said we should be concerned genuinely for the brethren. There's no fellowship outside of church and events are very very rare. Service is only on Sunday mornings and then that's it. Sure a brother can say to have lunch after but at the end of that hardly any communication is going throughout the week. One thing I struggle with and I'll admit is the fact that I am lacking in more growth especially with brothers and sisters. I don't want to take the self-righteous approach but I always make the time and effort to see how everyone is doing or what they may have learned. I may get a response here and there but no one checks on me. I may sound very "needy" (insecure) but I just will want that unity that I know one day will be restored. I tell God or even ask at times is something wrong with me that no one checks up on me but I check up on them? Do I have any fruit? Its been a struggle. I ask the Holy Spirit to guide me into a church that has Bible studies, Wednesday and Sunday night service. We need to work more fervently for the Lord. Thank you for your reply.
Brother Arnold. Thank you for sharing what you did; it gives me a better understanding of what you're experiencing there. Unfortunately, that is fairly typical of many Fellowships, particularly with the larger ones, where cliques form (not necessarily in a negative way), & they tend to converse more often amongst themselves & avoiding others. Our Fellowship, with over 200 members, would fall into that category, where many have never even met or shaken hands with others. But one or two ladies took it upon themselves to keep in touch with as many as they could, via the phone or email, particularly if you were absent for more than a couple of weeks. That's as far as one could expect from such 'fellowship', unless you were part of a 'group' (coffee or study group).
Some of my relatives are with the Exclusive Brethren (also known as Plymouth Brethren). They are generally very small in number (< 20) but they certainly care for each other in every way, even providing paying jobs for any unemployed among them, etc. Of course, that sounds like a very NT pattern of care & concern, but theologically, there are differences. In your situation, you have a small elderly group, but it seems like the pastor/elder is happy to keep the status quo as everyone, bar one, is also satisfied with the setup. Even if you sought out another Fellowship, there's no guarantee that after spending time there, their follow-up of believers will be any different. It sounds that you have a ministry right there to initiate a better deeper interaction amongst believers. And particularly as they're mostly elderly, some might appreciate a home visit with a Word & prayer shared. But if you're feeling stifled, then check around - the Lord may have something elsewhere for you, hopefully both to give & receive. May the Lord encourage & direct you brother.
All glory is to God! Thank you so much kind sir. You know I as many have struggled and still struggle from time to time with feelings of despondency and just inadequacy. Sometimes I feel as if there is something wrong with me for trying my hardest to interact but I know there isn't. It's very mind boggling and hurts sometimes because I want to do so much and have this fellowship but no one wants to put in the effort. I go back to what Jesus said how good is salt if it loses its flavor. Have we really lost sight of fellowship, building up others, addressing concerns amongst believers, and prayer? I mean I can't seem to just stop and look around and say man oh man this is what Jesus said would happen. And because iniquity will abound more and more the love of many will wax cold. At the end of the day the spirit of truth (The Holy Spirit) will guide me into all truths. One thing that I believe God is doing in my life is showing me what I am not doing and telling me how to fix it by trusting him and just walking in obedience and faith with him. I want to have Bible studies. I want my faith to be increased. There's so many things but it all boils down to time, and patience. What does Psalms 18 say ? It is God that girdeth me up with strength. I am so humbly blessed for everyone to have taken at least five minutes out of their day to respond to me and my question. Thank you so much.
I can second everything you have said, And I agree with Brother Chris also. Things is just not the way it started in acts 2. The Church prophesized with leaven in it from the the very beginning. " Leviticus 23:17. " Also Paul said in
Acts 20:29-30. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
("" Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them."")
Also Jude: Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.
I believe the Church has become worldly and is spiritually wounded. But they're many like yourself that feels a nudge from the Holyspirit to not be slothful in true worship. While you are there come forward and offer help in that area, lets do our best to make a difference. I'm going through the same thing, your complaint mirrors mine!
One thing I can tell you that the coronavirus did is manifest this lack of Genuine Love between the brothern.
Their worship was always at a place and on a day. but not in truth and in spirit.
Reminds me of John 4:23-24. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
Continue to keep yourself in scripture and sharing at your church and with others in the spirit of meekness, Believe me it's a struggle! but remember you are not alone.
S Spencer I agree the apostle Paul was given the revelation or knowledge from Jesus Christ on how the body of christ should operate and Paul witness to all asia in 2 years and three months Acts 19:9+10, and yet years later according to 2 Timothy 1:15 all Asia turned away from Paul thats an unbelievable statement so not only did people change beliefs they were no longer endeavoring to walk in body by the spirit. I've seen the same in my lifetime, it says in Ephesians Endeavoring to keep unity of spirit in bond of peace. May God show all of how to get better. God Bless
Thank you so much for the response. This virus has affected society in general and is so handicapped that even fellowship in a church is disappearing. I myself can be straight and honest with you all I know Jesus lives in me but still I lack true fellowship with believers that are on fire for God and I want that. There's one verse that has touched me and still does and that's in Revelation 21 where he says all their tears will be wiped away. My Christian life has been a struggle. My family aren't Christian and within that lies a problem in my spiritual growth hence the whole attack on spiritual forces. I've been asking the Holy Spirit to guide me into a church that is on fire and wants to go all out. But if it's one thing I'm learning is patience and waiting is something we have to do like Psalms 130 says I'll wait for you. For now we pray for each other and hope that all of us are in one sound mind and remain spotless until the return of Christ
Wasn't there one who answered you until this moment? Stay or remain in the Word of GOD. The Word is GOD. Here goes: Matthew 24:v.9 to 14, check it, and get ready because the days are evil- Eph. 5:v.16.
I'm kinda new on this forum all together and I thank you for the scripture that you provided me. We are getting close to the end but that's why it's imperative for me at least to get more right with God have fellowship. Either way I have to keep letting him lead instead of me falling into feelings of despondency. Please pray for me.
thank you and peace be with y'all
Of the early Church we read in Acts 2:41-47, that they continued very regularly in each other's company around the Word, prayers, the Lord's Table & fellowship. They also shared of their goods with each other since many were poor, thus avoiding anyone suffering & maybe losing faith. Their love for man even extended to some selling possessions so others outside the faith may not be in want. So this gives us a fairly good picture of the type of relationship that the believers were having: one of great concern for both those in Christ & those outside Christ.
Fast forward a couple thousand of years & we still see (or, should see) a similar concern for those in need, yet our culture, size of congregations, distance between peoples' homes, heavy family/work commitments, & a whole lot of other reasons, seem to impinge on believers maintaining a special closeness & involvement with each other. And somehow we do manage to keep in touch by phone (which the early believers didn't have & so a regular gathering together was important). Some might feel that the Pastor or his Assistant should be following through with their congregations - & of course, this is correct, but I think you might also be thinking of closer friendships or bonds being formed. In smaller congregations, folk easily keep in touch with each other regularly - not so much in larger ones. If you're sensing this in your Fellowship, do they have events that bring the folk together (e.g. fellowship meals, Bible studies, outreaches, etc.)? These 'extras', really help to bring others closer together & show more care for each other.
I would like to thank you so much for the reply and the time that was taken in doing so my brother. As I very well know that the Holy Spirit is the one who really reveals all truth to us. The church I am attending right now is small not big but members are slowly decreasing. And although they are older folk (which I don't mind)I get the sense of spiritual laziness in this church and it hurts me to see this. If we are to take up the shield of faith and listen and obey to what Jesus said we should be concerned genuinely for the brethren. There's no fellowship outside of church and events are very very rare. Service is only on Sunday mornings and then that's it. Sure a brother can say to have lunch after but at the end of that hardly any communication is going throughout the week. One thing I struggle with and I'll admit is the fact that I am lacking in more growth especially with brothers and sisters. I don't want to take the self-righteous approach but I always make the time and effort to see how everyone is doing or what they may have learned. I may get a response here and there but no one checks on me. I may sound very "needy" (insecure) but I just will want that unity that I know one day will be restored. I tell God or even ask at times is something wrong with me that no one checks up on me but I check up on them? Do I have any fruit? Its been a struggle. I ask the Holy Spirit to guide me into a church that has Bible studies, Wednesday and Sunday night service. We need to work more fervently for the Lord. Thank you for your reply.
Some of my relatives are with the Exclusive Brethren (also known as Plymouth Brethren). They are generally very small in number (< 20) but they certainly care for each other in every way, even providing paying jobs for any unemployed among them, etc. Of course, that sounds like a very NT pattern of care & concern, but theologically, there are differences. In your situation, you have a small elderly group, but it seems like the pastor/elder is happy to keep the status quo as everyone, bar one, is also satisfied with the setup. Even if you sought out another Fellowship, there's no guarantee that after spending time there, their follow-up of believers will be any different. It sounds that you have a ministry right there to initiate a better deeper interaction amongst believers. And particularly as they're mostly elderly, some might appreciate a home visit with a Word & prayer shared. But if you're feeling stifled, then check around - the Lord may have something elsewhere for you, hopefully both to give & receive. May the Lord encourage & direct you brother.
I can second everything you have said, And I agree with Brother Chris also. Things is just not the way it started in acts 2. The Church prophesized with leaven in it from the the very beginning. " Leviticus 23:17. " Also Paul said in
Acts 20:29-30. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
("" Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them."")
Also Jude: Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.
I believe the Church has become worldly and is spiritually wounded. But they're many like yourself that feels a nudge from the Holyspirit to not be slothful in true worship. While you are there come forward and offer help in that area, lets do our best to make a difference. I'm going through the same thing, your complaint mirrors mine!
One thing I can tell you that the coronavirus did is manifest this lack of Genuine Love between the brothern.
Their worship was always at a place and on a day. but not in truth and in spirit.
Reminds me of John 4:23-24. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
Continue to keep yourself in scripture and sharing at your church and with others in the spirit of meekness, Believe me it's a struggle! but remember you are not alone.
God bless you.
Thank you so much for the response. This virus has affected society in general and is so handicapped that even fellowship in a church is disappearing. I myself can be straight and honest with you all I know Jesus lives in me but still I lack true fellowship with believers that are on fire for God and I want that. There's one verse that has touched me and still does and that's in Revelation 21 where he says all their tears will be wiped away. My Christian life has been a struggle. My family aren't Christian and within that lies a problem in my spiritual growth hence the whole attack on spiritual forces. I've been asking the Holy Spirit to guide me into a church that is on fire and wants to go all out. But if it's one thing I'm learning is patience and waiting is something we have to do like Psalms 130 says I'll wait for you. For now we pray for each other and hope that all of us are in one sound mind and remain spotless until the return of Christ
Wasn't there one who answered you until this moment? Stay or remain in the Word of GOD. The Word is GOD. Here goes: Matthew 24:v.9 to 14, check it, and get ready because the days are evil- Eph. 5:v.16.
I'm kinda new on this forum all together and I thank you for the scripture that you provided me. We are getting close to the end but that's why it's imperative for me at least to get more right with God have fellowship. Either way I have to keep letting him lead instead of me falling into feelings of despondency. Please pray for me.
This comment thread is locked. Please enter a new comment below to start a new comment thread.
Note: Comment threads older than 2 months are automatically locked.
Do you have a Bible comment or question?
Please Sign In or Register to post comments...
Report Comment
Which best represents the problem with the comment?