Preface Vol 1 No 1


	Preface Fellowship is a word that is often used among believers, yet is sometimes difficult to define or describe. The book of Philippians, however, presents a sweet portrait of intimate fellowship. What began between a slave of the Lord named Paul, a merchant named Lydia, and a jailer and his family grew over time to include a household of saints in that city. They enjoyed a divine reality, a flow in the Spirit, which resulted in their having each other in their hearts. This became a mutual feast before God - a genuine fellowship. We have a hope that this same divine flow of life would increase and abound in all of us, especially among the many newer and younger saints in this area whom the Lord has blessed us with. The Fellowship Journal is being introduced with these in mind. The opening article "The Quest for Peace" directs us to find in Christ Himself the true peace, elusive to so many today. This article may be read with a friend who has not yet come to Christ. The "Born Again" article helps new believers know that our new birth is not synonymous with going to heaven. It is a matter of experiencing Christ as our new life, having a new position as a son of God, and beginning to realize a change by living in the Body of Christ. In order for this new life to grow in us, we must take care of our heart. The article "The Four Hearts in Matthew 13," shows that we all have a heart condition. By cooperating with the Lord we can cultivate our heart so it becomes good earth for growth and fruitfulness in the Lord. Next is an article on "How to Know the Lord's Leading." Although our environment and the fellowship with the brothers may help us know the Lord's leading, it cannot replace the speaking we receive while restfully remaining in union and communion with the Lord. Another article describes how the Philippians had "The Joy of Following Christ in Purity." Being pure, focused, and joyful enabled these saints to participate with the Lord's slave Paul in a mutual celebration before God. In the Journal you will also find some enjoyable quotes from a book on Philippians entitled The Experience of Christ. Finally, a word study, "From House to House," offers insights into the way the early church enjoyed this fellowship. May the Lord bless this Fellowship Journal with the increase of divine, intimate fellowship among us!