In the New Testament the English word “church” is translated from the Greek word ἐκκλησία, (ekklesia) which is a compound word, consisting of the preposition ἐκ, or ἐξ, (ek or ex) meaning from or out, and a derivative of καλέω (kaleō), which means to call. So the word “church” from the standpoint of the Greek from which it is translated is a calling out, hence, an assembly.

The word synagogue in the New Testament is translated from the Greek συναγωγή (sunagoge), compound of συν (sun) and αγω (ago), meaning to lead or bring together, hence, also meaning an assembly.

In effect, the words “church” and “synagogue” are two words for the same thing, an assembly.

A related English word is fellowship. One definition of “fellowship” according to Webster’s Dictionary is, “a state of being together.” Sometimes we may speak of a particular church body as being a “fellowship,” as distinct from other church bodies which may (or may not) have similar beliefs and practices, but are separate entities from an organizational standpoint.

Another definition of fellowship is “an association of people who share common beliefs or activities” (Wordnet).

While the ideas of church, synagogue and fellowship are related, the word “fellowship” has certain connotations of its own. The several Greek words in the New Testament translated “fellowship” in the King James and New King James translations are mostly related to the word κοινός (koinos), which means common, or shared. Sometimes these words are translated into various forms of the words communion, communication, or sharing, as well as fellowship.

Let’s explore the idea of “fellowship” from the standpoint of Scripture. What does the Bible say about the proper foundation for Christian fellowship, and how may godly fellowship be practiced?

Continue reading →