Tools to maturity – Praise & Fellowship
PRAISE
Definition of ‘praise’
Merriam-Webster dictionary defines ‘praise’ as:
- To express a favorable judgment or commend
- To glorify (a god or saint) especially by the attribution of perfections
Content of praise
Therefore, as a Christian what should be the content of biblical praise? The Bible gives some hints:
- Acknowledgement of God’s perfect character (Ephesians 1:6)
- Acknowledgement of God’s righteous actions (Psalm 139:14; Psalm 148)
- Thankfulness (Hebrews 13:15)
Reason we praise
Why do we praise God? The reasons are vital to our Christian life and are listed below:
- The Bible commands us to praise – It is our duty to praise God. However, God does not give us commands without reason, so several potential explanations follow below (Psalm 150; Romans 15:11; Hebrews 13:15).
- He deserves praise – Our Father in Heaven is the almighty God who has provided for us salvation through his precious Son, Jesus Christ, as a free gift through faith that we could have eternal life. This salvation is a sure hope and anchor for our souls. Surely, He deserves glory, thanks, and praise (1 Peter 4:11; Hebrews 6:19).
- It is good for us to praise – God made us! Therefore, He knows what is good for us. It is good for us to praise at least for the following reasons:
- God’s ordained order – Praise reminds us of the order of the universe. We are not the most important thing in creation. God’s goals and priorities are above, and better than, ours.
- Humility – Realizing that God’s plans are more important than ours might limit our complaining and remind us that we are here to serve our great God.
- Attitude – Praise teaches us thankfulness in realizing God’s gifts to us in creation, in Christ and His benefits in this life as our Father. These should promote an attitude of thankfulness and reduce expectations (Philippians 4:8).
We do indeed have a great God who is worthy of all praise!
FELLOWSHIP
Definition of ‘fellowship’
The biblical word ‘fellowship’ is most closely expressed in the Greek by the word koinōnia (κοινωνία), and its derivatives, which mean basically ‘communion’ as well as the word metochē (μετοχή) which means ‘participation.’
What does the Bible say about fellowship?
The Bible describes fellowship in the most general ways:
- It occurs only between Christians – This is because we cannot be encouraged or learn from those who do not have the Spirit or who do not understand the Christian faith (1 John 1:6-10; 2 Corinthians 6:14).
- Do not neglect – We are not to avoid fellowship. This is because it is good for us. It is also good for other people to see God working in us. Please see below (Hebrews 10:24-25; Hebrews 13:15).
- Functional definition – In reality, the Bible does not give a lot of detail, or a singular text, defining ‘fellowship’. However, functionally any interaction between Christians that is spiritually based, as described in the Bible, might be considered fellowship (Colossians 3:12-17; Ephesians 5:15-20).
Why do we need fellowship?
The benefits of fellowship are assumed in scripture. As Christians, we need the example, as well as the verbal encouragement and reminders of God’s word from others, to help promote our own walk with God (1 Timothy 4:12-16). Likewise, our actions and speech provide this to other believers.
- What biblical fellowship is not, – One benefit we derive from church is social fellowship around food, games, sports, weddings, parties, etc. However, these events may or may not include true fellowship which should have a spiritual basis.
- How do we fellowship? – True biblical fellowship can occur in many settings. Regardless the setting, biblical fellowship is framed in a lifestyle that is upstanding (1 Thessalonians 2:10) and speech that helps and encourages others (Ephesians 4:29). How do we do this? Here are some ideas:
- Know God’s word – This is important so you are speaking to others correct biblical truth and not church based jargon such as ‘That is not my gift’ or ‘I do not have a peace about that so I will not do it.’
- Plan ahead – Consider before meeting with a person how you might encourage them specifically with: gratitude, commendation, thought provoking questions, sharing God’s word or recounting what God has done in your own life (Colossians 1:3-7; 1 Thessalonians 1:5-7; 1 Timothy 4:16). If you don’t know what to ask them go to their social media accounts and learn about them. If you are attending a gathering, then choose one person to target with whom to fellowship.
- Listen – Be sure and listen when conversing so you can learn and discover how you can even better encourage them (James 1:19).
- Control the environment – It can be very difficult to discuss godly matters in environments that are controlled by other people such as festive activities or groups of people who are unbelievers or are non-serious Christians. If you’re finding it difficult to have fellowship then create your own environments in which proper fellowship can occur, such as:
- Choose a meeting place that is quiet and where you will not have interruptions where bible-based topics can be discussed.
- Choose the person or the people specifically to be there who also seek Christ and with whom excellent fellowship can occur.
Join us next time as we continue our discussion of the tools to maturity.
Disclaimer – This podcast is provided as information only and is intended for listeners 18 and older. No podcast content should be taken as advice or recommendation for any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the speaker and are not necessarily shared or endorsed by Teleios. The podcast is subject to change at any time without notice. Although the podcaster endeavors to ensure current and accurate content, it may contain errors and is not presented as current, accurate, complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. The podcaster does not accept any liability for the podcast or any other information (or the use of such information) provided. The speaker does not hold a seminary degree, but is self-trained in the scriptures. Specific questions should be directed to experts in the field of theology.
