Two Words
by Jon Schwiethale
In Philippians 1:3-5, Paul writes to the Church in Philippi saying, “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now…”
In verse 5 Paul uses a very interesting word in the Greek language. The word is “koinonia,” transliterated in the NIV as “partnership,” in the KJV as “fellowship,” and in the NAS as “participation.” If someone were to ask me which one I like the best, well, I’m not sure I could decide. I actually like all of them the same.
For example, I love the idea that as the Church, we are in a partnership with each other. You are my partner, and I am your partner. I also love the idea that we are in fellowship with each other. We share something in common with each other even though we may come from different places and different backgrounds. It’s that commonality that brings us together in relationship. And I love the idea of participation, that we are involved with each other for a common mission, a common goal.
But perhaps another word I like just as much and maybe more is the object of koinonia here in verse 5. Paul says it like this, “your partnership in the Gospel.” It’s the Gospel. The Greek word for Gospel is the word “Euangelion.” The Gospel is the Good News about Jesus Christ. It is Jesus that has brought us into this partnership. It is Jesus that has brought us into this fellowship. It is Jesus that calls us to participate in His mission to seek and save the lost. No wonder Paul could say the words, “I pray with joy.” May we do the same.