East Dallas Church of Christ

THE RIGHT HAND OF FELLOWSHIP

Galatians 2:9 (NKJV)

and when James, Cephas, and John who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that had been given to me, they gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised.

 Since the early church, shaking hands has been a symbol of the fellowship we enjoy in Christ. A symbol, however not the only one. Saluting one another with an holy kiss is also an acceptable greeting, but the handshake has been the one that is accepted universally. With all the concern these days about the Coronavirus, I thought it proper to address the issue.

No, it is not a requirement to actually shake hands, or salute with a kiss. The question then becomes, should we? During an outbreak, or period of concern such as we are experiencing, it is wise to use common sense and courtesy. If yor are sneezing, coughing, wiping eyes, scratching, or any other activity, one should refrain from touching others period. Sanitary practices such as washing hands, using sanitizers and wipes are things that can be done to prevent the spread of common illnesses such as the cold, and the flu viruses. Our fellowship is centered around our faith in, and love for Jesus Christ. The symbols of this bond are far less important than the bond, and the faith from which it is derived.

Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. (1 Peter 2:17) NKJV

Loving one another is to lookout for the best interest of one another. So, don't put your sisters and brothers in a position to become ill. if you are not well, particularly exhibiting symptoms of illness, STAY HOME. Let us know, we'll pray for you! Wash when appropriate, use sanitizers, do all those things that are good for hygiene. During communion separate out your bread, and refrain as much as possible touching the other pieces. These are things that love will do to ensure our fellowship is protected from basic enemies of good health.

If for the next few weeks you are uncomfortable shaking hands, hugging, or any of the other things we normally do to show our love, just let it be known. It is our love that best exemplifies our bond of fellowship. John 13:34 (NKJV) Let's give each other  'some Dap.' 

Because we love.

L.J. Williams III