In what ways can your church implement Matthew 25:38's call to welcome strangers? Encountering Christ in the Stranger “ ‘When did we see You a stranger and take You in…?’ ” (Matthew 25:38). Jesus identifies Himself with the outsider; serving them is serving Him. Foundational Truths for Welcoming Strangers • God’s people have always been commanded to embrace the outsider (Leviticus 19:34; Deuteronomy 10:19). • Hospitality is a mark of genuine faith (Romans 12:13; 1 Peter 4:9). • Entertaining strangers can bring unforeseen blessing: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2). Practical Steps for the Congregation In the Worship Gathering • Greeter ministry trained to notice unfamiliar faces, offer genuine eye-contact, and walk newcomers to comfortable seating. • Brief, sincere explanation of service flow from the pulpit so guests never feel lost (1 Corinthians 14:40). • Designate members to linger after the benediction, ready to converse and exchange contact information. Throughout the Week • Rotate small-group locations so members host in their homes, making room for neighbors and coworkers. • “Adopt a student” or “adopt a soldier” program: families invite college students or service members for weekly meals. • Ride-share lists for visitors needing transportation to church events. Facilities and Atmosphere • Clear signage in multiple languages; add braille where feasible (Isaiah 35:5-6 applied). • Nursery and children’s areas visibly clean, secure, and staffed so parents feel safe entrusting little ones. • Coffee/refreshment area staffed by friendly volunteers trained to introduce guests to others. Outreach Partnerships • Cooperate with local shelters and refugee-placement agencies; offer church space for ESL classes. • Sponsor community “welcome dinners” for new residents, using church cooks and musicians; share testimony naturally, not forcefully (1 Thessalonians 2:8). • Maintain a benevolence fund; elders vet needs quickly so help isn’t delayed (Acts 11:29-30). Training and Mobilization • Quarterly workshop on biblical hospitality, grounding members in passages such as Luke 14:12-14. • Short-term mission trips within the city—spend a Saturday serving immigrant neighborhoods, then invite new friends to Sunday worship. • Pair mature believers with newer ones for discipleship lunches, modeling 2 Timothy 2:2. Guarding the Heart While Serving • Serve without partiality (James 2:1-4). • Remember the stranger may one day be a brother or sister at the Lord’s Table (Ephesians 2:19). • Rely on the Spirit, not mere human warmth, to produce lasting fruit (Galatians 5:22). Fruit to Expect • Congregational unity deepens as members labor side by side (Philippians 1:27). • Outsiders witness Christ’s love in action, opening doors for the gospel (John 13:35). • The church echoes heaven’s welcome: “After this I looked and saw a multitude… from every nation” (Revelation 7:9). |
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