As believers and followers of Jesus Christ, we have the incredible privilege of having a relationship with other followers of Christ. When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we are adopted into the family of God as His sons and daughters. John 1:12 says, “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” Then, as we come together and identify ourselves with other believers, we become united in a local church body where we can begin the process of reaching in, to care for and encourage other believers. 

Identifying ourselves with a local church body is very important. It offers us the opportunity to reach in. It offers us the chance and honor of taking part in and benefiting from genuine Christian fellowship. Genuine Christian fellowship is the practice of gathering together for the purpose of fellowship and solidarity. It is an essential part of the Christian life and an important way for Christians to share and experience their faith (Hebrews 10:24-25). Without this type of friendly association with other believers it becomes difficult to effectively live a God-honoring life. 

Churches and their ministries provide believers with a place to gather, fellowship, and worship God together. This gathering of fellow believers is a place of comfort and refuge, because it is a time to come together in love and support one another. This fellowship is vitally important in the Christian life because it allows believers to share experiences and support each other (Colossians 3:12-16). This fellowship of believers offers a safe place to be vulnerable, allowing believers to process their struggles, pray for one another, and celebrate their successes. Each of these activities play an important role in maintaining a healthy church and healthy believers.

Christian fellowship also offers a sense of belonging, a sense of being understood and accepted. People who are part of the fellowship of believers often become like family, providing comfort and strength to each other in times of need (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). This bond is special, because it is often what helps believers through hard times in their spiritual walk. This deep connection and accountability helps believers develop a prayer and study habit, as well as encouraging them to grow closer to Jesus. 

Christian fellowship helps connect believers to God, His Word, and the Holy Spirit. Believers come to understand God better through fellowship, prayer, and bible study, as well as through conversations, discussions, and applications of God’s Word (Acts 2:42). Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” When believers come together to worship God, and fellowship in His presence together, they are reaching in, to deepen their relationship with God and one another.

At Calvary Baptist Church, we believe that an essential part of being a believer and follower of Jesus Christ is participating in true Christian fellowship. This includes reaching in, to receive and provide support, connection, understanding, and a deeper relationship with God and fellow believers. Therefore, We are a church that calls for each one to reach in, to care for and encourage the fellowship of believers.