Why fellowship? When you want to quarrel

1. Why fellowship?

Christian fellowship, often referred to by the Greek word koinonia, means a shared life, participation, or partnership. It's considered vital for several reasons:

Christians are called to fellowship because:

Unity in Christ: Jesus prayed that His followers would be one (John 17:20–23).

Mutual encouragement: Believers strengthen each other in faith (Hebrews 10:24–25).

Spiritual growth: Fellowship provides teaching, correction, and love (Acts 2:42).

Witness to the world: Our unity shows the reality of Christ’s love (John 13:35).

So fellowship isn’t optional—it’s part of God’s design for the church.

In essence, the Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation but in a community of believers, the "Body of Christ" (1 Corinthians 12:27).

2. Why are Christians divided over Bible versions?

The divisions over Bible versions, particularly concerning the King James Version (KJV), stem from a few key factors. This is often a historical and personal issue, not just theological:

Textual differences: The KJV is based largely on the Textus Receptus and older English. Other versions may use critical texts based on earlier manuscripts. 

Most modern translations rely on older, more numerous, and diverse biblical manuscripts that have been discovered since 1611 (when the KJV was published). The KJV was primarily based on a Greek New Testament text known as the Textus Receptus. Some groups believe the Textus Receptus is superior and are wary of translations based on newer discoveries. 

Language changes: English has changed a lot since 1611. Some Christians feel newer translations make Scripture clearer; others believe the KJV preserves accuracy and reverence.

Tradition and trust: Many grew up with the KJV and see it as the standard, while others trust modern scholarship.

Unfortunately, instead of focusing on the gospel, these differences can become dividing walls.

3. How to fellowship with people using other Bible versions?

The majority of Christians agree that the essential doctrines of the faith (like the Trinity, the deity of Christ, salvation by grace through faith, etc.) are accurately preserved across all major, established English translations. Therefore, a focus on these essentials allows for unity in fellowship. The key is to remember what unites Christians: faith in Christ, not a translation. Here are some practical ways:

Focus on core doctrines: The deity of Christ, the gospel of grace, salvation through faith—these are preserved across faithful translations.

Respect others’ convictions: If someone treasures the KJV, honor that. If another uses the ESV, NASB, NIV, etc., respect their conscience.

Use Scripture together: Even if you prefer the KJV, you can compare passages and talk about how God speaks through them.

Avoid quarrels: Paul urged Timothy to “avoid foolish and ignorant disputes” (2 Timothy 2:23). Don’t let versions become a stumbling block.

Love first: Fellowship is built on love and truth, not uniformity of translation (Colossians 3:14).

Bottom line: Bible versions shouldn’t divide Christians who agree on the gospel. Fellowship comes from Christ, not from the specific English translation we carry.