In this first episode in our series on Fellowship, we learn how to truly fellowship. Fellowship isn’t just about the grand meals, polished spaces, and perfect gatherings. At its core, hospitality is about offering vulnerability, connecting with others in meaningful ways, and creating space for people to be seen and known. In this second episode of our series on hospitality, Mitchell Buchanan, Matthew Parker, and Ben Reese dive into key theological insights and practical lessons on what it truly means to engage in fellowship as a community—both within the church and beyond.
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1. True Fellowship Is Rooted in Vulnerability and Transparency
As Matthew Parker explores Acts 2:42-47, he paints a vivid picture of the early church—a community that was deeply rooted in fellowship, breaking bread together, and committing to learning from God’s word. One of the most powerful aspects of this passage is how it shows that community isn’t just about gathering; it’s about offering our whole selves to one another.
Matthew highlights how true fellowship involves inviting people into our personal spaces—homes, lives, and hearts. He brings up a simple but profound point: when we invite others into our homes, we are showing a level of vulnerability that helps build connection. It's not just about the meal or the space, but about the intention behind it. Our homes are private places, and when we share them with others, we invite them into our personal world, making room for genuine connection.
The example of sharing meals together and attending the temple wasn’t just about spending time together—it was an intentional, vulnerable act that strengthened their bond as believers. We’re encouraged to create a welcoming atmosphere that goes beyond what’s clean and perfect. Instead, it’s about fostering a space where generosity and genuine care are the driving emotions.
2. Vulnerability in Fellowship Leads to Deeper Connection
As Ben Reese shares his thoughts on 1 John 1:5-10, the idea of vulnerability comes up again, but in a different context. Fellowship, Ben emphasizes, requires walking in the light and confessing our sins. It’s easy for us to hide our struggles, out of fear that sharing them will disconnect us from others. But, as the passage reminds us, if we claim to be without sin, we are lying to ourselves and others. It’s not about perfection, but honesty.
Ben highlights that admitting our struggles, no matter how small they seem, can lead to deeper connection with others. When we live in the light, open about our weaknesses, we make room for grace, forgiveness, and accountability. When we confess, we allow others to know us deeply, and in return, we grow stronger in our community, finding comfort and love in our imperfections.
It’s easy to feel insecure about not fitting in or struggling with certain things. But Ben’s message is clear: vulnerability is not a weakness—it’s the key to belonging. When we share where we are struggling, others are able to encourage and support us in ways that make our fellowship even more meaningful.
3. Fellowship Happens When We Stop Hiding and Start Engaging
Another important aspect of fellowship discussed is that sometimes, our busyness becomes a defense mechanism to avoid facing what’s going on inside us. As Ben notes, “busyness can be a way to shirk responsibility.” When we keep ourselves busy, we don’t have to face our inner turmoil, doubts, or insecurities.
This is where intentionality comes into play. The real challenge is to actively engage in the fellowship that’s available to us. While it’s easy to hide behind busyness, we are called to be proactive. Whether through inviting someone into our home, sharing openly with a close friend, or even reaching out to a community group, we must be willing to take the first step.
The key message here is that fellowship doesn’t happen on its own. It requires intentionality—making space for others in our lives, being honest about where we are, and taking the time to nurture relationships that help us grow spiritually and emotionally.
4. The Power of Fellowship in Everyday Life
There’s a simple but profound truth: fellowship isn’t reserved for “big events”. The most meaningful moments of connection happen in everyday life—during work, over a cup of coffee, or while making dinner. Whether it's Matthew hosting his friends, Ben having a quiet conversation about struggles, or Mitchell making sure to create spaces for people to connect, fellowship thrives when we bring it into the natural rhythms of life.
As Matthew points out, it’s not about perfection, but about the effort we put in to be there for others. Even in busy seasons, we should make time to check in with each other, to invite people into our homes, and to share the truth of where we are. That’s how fellowship becomes a vehicle for growth and unity, not just a social obligation.
5. Creating a Culture of Generosity and Open Invitation
Finally, we’re reminded that hospitality is about generosity—not just in what we provide, but in how we show up. It’s about giving of ourselves, whether that’s time, energy, or emotional support. Matthew and Ben both emphasize how showing up for one another, whether it’s bringing food, offering a listening ear, or simply spending time together, fosters a generous and loving community.
When we extend open invitations and share what we have with others, we’re not only contributing to the growth of the kingdom but also embodying the spirit of God’s generosity. The early church grew because of the generosity of the people, and the same holds true for us today. As we open our hearts to each other, God multiplies our efforts, bringing people together in powerful ways.
Conclusion: Let’s Practice True Hospitality This Season
As we move into the holiday season, let’s remember that hospitality isn’t about grand gestures or perfect gatherings. It’s about creating space for vulnerability, honesty, and generosity. Whether through sharing a meal, having a heart-to-heart conversation, or simply being there for someone in need, fellowship is at the heart of a strong community.
This Christmas, let’s practice hospitality by making room for each other, being generous with our time and hearts, and engaging in meaningful fellowship that reflects the love of Christ.
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