The outward appearance and condition of the saints in those days being
very mean and contemptible, — their leaders being accounted as the filth
of this world, and as the offscouring of all things, — the inviting others
unto fellowship with them, and a participation of the precious things
which they did enjoy, seems to be exposed to many contrary reasonings
and objections: “What benefit is there in communion with them? Is it any
thing else but to be sharers in troubles, reproaches, scorns, and all manner
of evils?”
To prevent or remove these and the like exceptions, the apostle
gives them to whom he wrote to know (and that with some earnestness of
expression), that notwithstanding all the disadvantages their fellowship lay
under, unto a carnal view, yet in truth it was, and would be found to be (in
reference to some with whom they held it), very honorable, glorious, and
desirable. For “truly,” saith he, “our fellowship is with the Father, and
with his Son Jesus Christ.”
-- John Owen, "Communion with God, Chapter 1"