by Eddie Lyons
Solomon’s book, Ecclesiastes, talks about how life works. One of the most important topics covered is the value of living life with friends. Here is what it says; “Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
One thing the Fellowship is here to do is to make sure no leader stands alone, no pastor stands alone, no church planter plants alone, and no missionary goes alone.
For over 65 years, this Fellowship has demonstrated Solomon was correct. Together we have planted churches and sent out missionaries and trained leaders for our churches. While we each are busy about the mission God has specifically given to us individually, we have drawn great strength and encouragement from the friendships of other leaders around us. As I talk to pastors all over the country, I hear them talk about the value of their relationships within our network, no matter their age demographic.
In fact, the way we are organized and operate is all about relationships. People ask me how to join the Fellowship. We have no application to fill out. There are no dues to pay, no single college you have to attend. If you agree with what we call the 20 Articles of Faith and have a heart to take the Gospel to your city, your state, and around the world, we welcome you. Just come. Just attend. Let us get to know you and let’s start a friendship that can make a difference. We hope you will find our collective efforts to train leaders, plant churches, and send missionaries compelling enough to join. But, with no strings attached, we welcome you if you share our heart and passion for the Gospel. You don’t have to be alone.
September 14-16 we will gather again for our Fall National Meeting. We welcome you to come and renew old acquaintances and make some new friends. We will sit together and talk about how we can go home and lead our churches to revitalization. We hope you go home with new ideas and fresh inspiration. We also hope you go away with some new friendships.
Since Solomon stated that friendships are vital in life, let us all attend with a heart to reach out. Invite someone you don’t know to sit with you or to go out to eat. As you go out with your buddies from days gone by, look around and invite someone new to join your group. This simple act could change the future of a life and ministry. Let’s make sure no leader stands alone.