In what ways can our church better "welcome strangers" as Jesus instructs? Jesus’ Call to Embrace the Stranger “For I was hungry and you gave Me food, I was thirsty and you gave Me drink, I was a stranger and you took Me in.” (Matthew 25:35) Why This Matters • Welcoming strangers is direct obedience to Christ. • Hospitality to outsiders reveals genuine faith (James 2:15-17). • God Himself models it—He “sets the lonely in families” (Psalm 68:6). Biblical Portraits of Hospitality • Abraham welcomed three unknown visitors—encountered the Lord (Genesis 18:1-8). • Rahab risked her life to shelter Israel’s spies—joined God’s people (Joshua 2:1-14; 6:25). • The early church “broke bread from house to house” and “had favor with all the people” (Acts 2:46-47). • Lydia opened her home immediately after believing (Acts 16:15). Practical Ways Our Church Can Welcome Strangers • Warm, intentional greetings at every door—smiles, eye contact, handshakes. • Clear signage and volunteers to escort newcomers to children’s rooms, restrooms, coffee areas, and seats. • Follow-up team that calls or texts first-time guests within 24 hours. • Small-group leaders trained to notice and invite visitors the same week. • Multilingual materials and translation headsets for non-English speakers. • Regular fellowship meals where members mix—assigned seating can prevent cliques. • Ride-share ministry for those without transportation. • “Adopt-a-student” or “adopt-a-soldier” programs pairing locals with those far from home. • Safe, well-lit parking lots with attendants ready to assist elderly or disabled guests. • Welcome packets: gospel tract, church beliefs, staff photos, children’s safety policy. Cultivating a Culture of Hospitality • Preach and teach hospitality as worship (1 Peter 4:9). • Testimonies from members who felt loved on their first visit. • Annual budget line for hospitality supplies, meals, benevolence. • Encourage every family to host someone new each month (Romans 12:13). • Model from leadership—pastors first to chat with unfamiliar faces. Guarding the Heart • Hospitality is more than program; it flows from remembering we were once strangers to God (Ephesians 2:12-13). • Beware of favoritism (James 2:1-4). • Pray for eyes to see Christ in every newcomer (Matthew 25:40). Fruit God Promises • Strangers become friends, then family—disciples multiplied (Acts 2:47). • The church reflects heaven’s diversity (Revelation 7:9). • Christ is glorified when His body mirrors His welcoming heart (Romans 15:7). |
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