“Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ep 4:3).
Let’s face it, although the ideal of authentic fellowship is valid and desirable, it is fraught with risks and challenges. Often when people initially seek genuine fellowship with others, they are shocked as they get closer to discover ugly sides in each other’s personalities and lives. Then disillusionment sets in. Then distancing begins. Personal shells are erected. Isolation follows and fellowship is dead! Unless there’s supernatural intervention, many of us will never know the beauty, blessing and power of real fellowship with fellow saints (Ps 133). Good news is that authentic koinonia is possible. It’s not by might, nor by power, but by the Spirit of God (Zec. 4:6)! We must abandon our selfish, carnal attempts at fellowship. We must go for the “unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ep 4:3). This is totally different from a unity of the flesh! We’ve been frustrated many times because we’ve tried to substitute the spiritual for the carnal. Same word, but different experiences! Unity of the Spirit is authored by the Holy Spirit as we earnestly trust, pray and obey His leading and blessing.
Pastor Josh