How can we "greet those who love us in the faith" today? Setting the Scene Titus 3:15 says, “All who are with me send you greetings. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all.” Paul’s closing words are not casual filler; they model how believers demonstrate family loyalty in Christ. Because Scripture is both accurate and literal, this command still stands for churches, small groups, and individual believers today. Understanding the Words • “Greet” (Greek: aspazomai) carries the sense of embracing, welcoming, and wishing good health. • “Those who love us in the faith” highlights a shared union in Christ that transcends culture, background, or geography. • Paul’s example shows that greetings are expressions of real spiritual kinship, not hollow pleasantries. A Portrait of Early Christian Greeting • Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 16:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:26; 1 Peter 5:14 – believers exchanged a “holy kiss,” an outward sign of inner unity. • 2 John 1:12 – John longs for “face to face” fellowship so “our joy may be complete.” • Acts 21:7; Acts 28:15 – welcoming travelers with hospitality, walking out to meet them on the road, celebrating God’s faithfulness together. These passages reveal a pattern: greetings served to strengthen, comfort, and confirm each other’s faith. Practical Ways to Greet Today 1. Warm Physical Welcome • Handshake, hug, or culturally appropriate gesture in church entryways and homes. • Eye contact and a genuine smile say, “You are family here.” 2. Spoken Blessing • Simple words like “Grace be with you” mirror Paul’s closing lines. • Verbalize Scripture—“The Lord bless you and keep you” (Numbers 6:24–26). 3. Written Encouragement • Send handwritten cards or letters; Paul’s epistles were letters that still build up the church. • Text or email verses and personal notes that convey care. 4. Hospitality • Invite believers for meals (Acts 2:46). Table fellowship breaks down barriers and nurtures belonging. • Offer lodging to traveling Christians, echoing Hebrews 13:1–2. 5. Prayerful Greeting • When saying hello or goodbye, pause to pray briefly with the person—affirming unity before God. 6. Digital Connection • Video calls with missionaries or distant believers maintain the habit of greeting across miles. • Church social media groups can spotlight members, share testimonies, and extend daily encouragement. 7. Serving Together • Show up at a hospital room, deliver groceries, join a service project. Actions greet souls with Christ’s love. 8. Remembering Names and Stories • Addressing someone by name (John 10:3) and recalling past conversations demonstrates value and care. Going Deeper with Related Passages • John 13:34–35 – Our love-marked greetings tell the world we belong to Jesus. • Galatians 6:10 – “As we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who belong to the household of faith.” • Philippians 1:3–5 – Paul’s thankful remembrance and prayers show that greeting includes ongoing intercession. • Colossians 4:7–18 – A roll call of names displays how greetings weave believers into one body. Closing Thoughts Greeting fellow believers is more than polite etiquette; it is an act of obedience that reinforces our shared life in Christ. Whether through a warm handshake, a thoughtful note, or an open door, we embody Titus 3:15 when we intentionally welcome “those who love us in the faith,” honoring the spiritual family God has graciously given us. |
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