It Starts Small

Koinōnia in various forms is used several times in Philippians to express the vital idea of “sharing together” in the “fellowship” of the gospel.

⁵ because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now,

Philippians 1:5

2 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion,

Philippians 2:1

¹⁰ I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, ¹¹ and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

Philippians 3:10

¹⁵ Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only;

Philippians 4:15

Most contemporary Christians are familiar with this Greek term. They possess at least a general understanding of its connection to “fellowship.” Numerous church edifices feature a designated “fellowship” hall or center intended for congregational meals and various social events.

Paul’s vision of koinōnia—true fellowship—goes far beyond mere casual gatherings and friendly chats. At its core, koinōnia represents the essence of “common” (koinos) life. It is a vibrant tapestry of shared existence, collective wealth, and authentic community living. From the Christian viewpoint, it emphasizes deep, integral participation in the glorious common life of Christ—truly, life “in Christ.” This shared existence transcends the superficial divides of spiritual and secular realms, creating a unified, holistic experience.

¹⁰ I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. ¹¹ I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹² I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³ I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

¹⁴ Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. ¹⁵ Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; ¹⁶ for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. ¹⁷ Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. ¹⁸ I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. ¹⁹ And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

²⁰ To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Philippians 4:10-20

Much like in Philippians, koinōnia passionately centers on material-economic sharing, revealing the profound interconnectedness of believers. (See Philippians 4:10-20)

The book of Acts powerfully illustrates the astonishing generosity of the early Jerusalem congregation, where “no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common (koina)”.

³² All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. ³³ With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all ³⁴ that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales

Acts 4:32-34

⁴⁴ All the believers were together and had everything in common. ⁴⁵ They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.

Acts 2:44-45

While it may seem improbable that other congregations fully embraced such radical sharing of wealth and resources, the profound spirit of unity in Christ undeniably fostered a deep commitment. This commitment was to care for one another. This commitment was not just spiritual, but also material.

²⁷ Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel

Philippians 1:27
(Bold for emphasis)

This unity is exemplified by “standing firm in one spirit”.

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