What steps can we take to welcome Jesus into our community today? Welcoming Jesus: Lessons from John 4:40 “So when the Samaritans came to Him, they asked Him to stay with them, and He stayed two days.” (John 4:40) The townspeople of Sychar caught a glimpse of Christ, recognized who He was, and did the most natural thing imaginable: they invited Him in. Their simple request led to two unforgettable days of personal fellowship with the Savior. That pattern still guides us today. Recognize His Presence and Need • Jesus is already near. “Behold, I stand at the door and knock.” (Revelation 3:20) • He seeks willing hearts more than perfect settings (John 4:23). Step 1: Acknowledge Him openly in our gatherings, homes, and conversations, confessing that our city needs His reign. Offer a Clear Invitation • “Come, Lord Jesus” is more than a phrase; it’s intentional space-making. • The Samaritans “asked Him to stay” (John 4:40). Their invitation was vocal, public, united. Practical ways: – Open corporate worship with direct welcome to Christ’s lordship. – Encourage testimonies that exalt Him (Psalm 107:2). – Use homes as hubs where neighbors hear of Him (Acts 5:42). Prepare a Dwelling of Faith and Obedience “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word. My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.” (John 14:23) • Holiness clears room; sin clutters it. • Corporate repentance signals true readiness (2 Chronicles 7:14). Checklist: – Confess known sin quickly. – Align community decisions with Scripture. – Celebrate obedience stories, reinforcing a culture that treasures His commands. Give Priority to His Word The Samaritans did not merely host Jesus socially; they listened. “Many more believed because of His word.” (John 4:41) • Scripture preaching and study anchor a Christ-welcome (Acts 2:42). • Reading aloud in gatherings revives corporate hunger (1 Timothy 4:13). Suggestions: – Read whole Gospel sections publicly. – Memorize and recite passages together. – Offer neighborhood Bible discovery groups that keep the text central. Practice Open-Handed Hospitality “I was a stranger and you welcomed Me.” (Matthew 25:35) “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some have entertained angels without knowing it.” (Hebrews 13:2) • Welcoming people mirrors welcoming Christ. • Sharing meals, meeting needs, and inviting outsiders communicate the gospel in action (Romans 12:13). Ideas: – Community potlucks that include the marginalized. – Regular service projects run through local churches. – Emergency help funds for immediate relief. Cultivate Continuous Fellowship “Abide in Me, and I in you.” (John 15:4) Ongoing steps: 1. Daily personal worship—Scripture, prayer, praise. 2. Weekly corporate worship centered on Christ’s finished work. 3. Smaller groups for accountability and mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25). Expect Transforming Results “Then they said to the woman, ‘We no longer believe because of what you said. For we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.’” (John 4:42) • When Jesus is welcomed, belief multiplies. • Communities change from the inside out (2 Corinthians 3:18). Look for: – New conversions and baptisms. – Restored relationships and justice pursued. – Joy that overflows into further witness. The Samaritans’ simple invitation led to two life-altering days; our consistent invitation can shape entire lifetimes. Welcome Him in, and watch what He does. |
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