What practical steps can you take to greet leaders and saints today? A Clear Command: Hebrews 13:24 “Greet all your leaders and all the saints. Those from Italy send you greetings.” The instruction is straightforward and literal: extend intentional, heartfelt greetings to every shepherd and every believer in Christ. Why Our Greetings Matter • They affirm unity in the body (Ephesians 4:3). • They display honor for God-appointed authority (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • They spread Christ’s peace (John 20:21; 3 John 14). • They cultivate mutual encouragement (Romans 1:11-12). Practical Ways to Greet Leaders • Speak personally before or after services—use names, eye contact, warmth. • Send brief handwritten notes of gratitude for specific ways they have blessed you. • Text or email Scriptures that encourage their shepherding role (e.g., 1 Peter 5:2-4). • Offer a timely cup of coffee or meal, simply to thank them, not to get something. • Stand with them publicly: praise God for their labor when talking with others (Romans 12:10). • Pray for them and tell them you have prayed (Colossians 4:3). • Support their families with practical help—babysitting, meals, errands. • Welcome guest ministers with hospitality, echoing “Those from Italy send you greetings” by adding your own local affection. Practical Ways to Greet Fellow Saints • Arrive early, linger after, greet newcomers and old friends alike (Romans 15:7). • Learn and use names; “Greet each of our friends by name” (3 John 14). • Share a holy kiss/handshake/hug appropriate to culture—“Greet one another with a kiss of love” (1 Peter 5:14). • Speak blessings such as “Grace to you,” mirroring apostolic greetings. • Send birthday or milestone cards featuring Scripture. • Leverage digital tools: group messages that include prayer updates and encouragement. • Host small gatherings, meals, or game nights to deepen fellowship. • Remember absent members with texts, calls, or doorstep visits. • Offer practical service—ride to church, help with a project, childcare—accompanied by a warm greeting. Maintaining a Lifestyle of Greeting • Keep your heart tuned to Christ’s welcome of you (Romans 15:7). • Pray for sensitivity to who needs encouragement each gathering. • Teach children to greet leaders and saints, modeling respect and love. • Guard against cliques; widen your circle each week. • Let every greeting carry genuine affection, reflecting the Savior who “came to serve” (Mark 10:45). A simple “good morning” offered with Christ’s love obeys Hebrews 13:24 and strengthens the family of God—one greeting at a time. |
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