How can we apply the example of hospitality seen in Colossians 4:10? The Snapshot in Colossians 4:10 “My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (you have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him).” – Colossians 4:10 What We See Happening • Paul is imprisoned, yet still thinking about the warmth of Christian fellowship. • Aristarchus and Mark, fellow laborers, send greetings—extending relational bridges. • Paul specifically tells the Colossians, “welcome” Mark. The Greek word dechomai means to receive warmly, treat as an honored guest, open hand and heart alike. Why Mark’s Mention Matters • Mark once deserted Paul and Barnabas (Acts 13:13). • A sharp disagreement later split Paul and Barnabas over whether to take Mark along (Acts 15:37-39). • Now Paul calls for Mark to be received. Hospitality includes restoration; past failure no longer blocks present fellowship. Timeless Hospitality Principles 1. Receive believers—even imperfect ones—with warmth, not suspicion. 2. Let the gospel heal old rifts; forgiveness fuels fellowship (Ephesians 4:32). 3. Honor those who labor for Christ; refresh God’s servants (3 John 5-8). 4. Engage the whole church, not just individuals; hospitality is congregational culture (Romans 12:13). 5. Welcome costs time, space, and resources—yet Scripture treats it as normal obedience (Hebrews 13:2). Practical Ways to Live It Out Today • Prepare a spare room or couch for traveling missionaries, pastors, students, or believers relocating. • Keep gift cards or grocery baskets ready for drop-in needs. • Invite those with a complicated past back to the table—literally and relationally. • Host small-group meetings or prayer nights; open doors breed open hearts. • Pair seasoned members with newer believers for meals after Sunday worship. • Budget for hospitality as intentionally as utilities or groceries. • Serve together: drive a visiting worker to appointments, share your car, lend tools. • Offer “light-load” hospitality when life is busy—coffee on the porch, a simple soup—because warmth matters more than perfection (1 Peter 4:9). The Ripple Effect • Hospitality strengthens gospel partnerships; Mark eventually becomes “very useful to me for ministry” (2 Timothy 4:11). • It declares Christ’s welcome (Romans 15:7). • It turns ordinary homes into ministry hubs, advancing the kingdom one open door at a time. |
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