How can we "welcome him in the Lord with great joy" today?

◄ How to welcome him joyfully in the Lord? ►

A Command Still Echoing

“Welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor men like him.” (Philippians 2:29)

Who Needs This Welcome Today?

• Missionaries returning on furlough

• Pastors, elders, and ministry staff

• Faithful volunteers, teachers, prayer warriors

• Believers who have suffered for Christ or labored sacrificially

• Any brother or sister visiting our fellowship

What “Welcome” Really Means

1. Receive them openly (Romans 15:7).

2. Provide tangible hospitality—meals, lodging, transportation (Hebrews 13:1-2).

3. Listen to their story; let them testify to God’s work (Acts 14:27).

4. Refresh them with rest and resources (3 John 5-8).

Keeping It “In the Lord”

• Center the welcome on shared union with Christ, not mere social courtesy.

• Pray with them and for them the moment they arrive (Colossians 1:3).

• Speak Scripture-based encouragement (Isaiah 52:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:11).

Adding “Great Joy”

• Express visible enthusiasm—smiles, applause, words of gratitude (Psalm 126:3).

• Celebrate corporately: announce their arrival, highlight their service, sing together (Psalm 100:1-2).

• Let children and teens join the welcome; model joyful honor for the next generation (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).

Practical Steps for a Local Church

• Create a hospitality team to coordinate housing and meals.

• Schedule a testimony night or slideshow so the whole body hears God’s deeds.

• Present a love offering or needed supplies (Philippians 4:18).

• Offer medical checkups, counseling, or sabbatical weeks for weary servants.

• Send them out again with laying on of hands and fresh prayer (Acts 13:3).

Guardrails of Discernment

• Welcome those who uphold biblical truth; do not aid false teachers (2 John 10-11).

• Confirm their doctrine and conduct (1 Timothy 3:10).

Why It Matters

When we welcome Christ’s servants joyfully, we:

• Honor the Lord who sent them (Matthew 10:40).

• Strengthen gospel partnerships (Philippians 1:5).

• Display the counter-cultural love that proves we are His disciples (John 13:35).