What actions demonstrate welcoming strangers, reflecting Matthew 25:38's teachings? Setting the Scene: Matthew 25:38 “‘When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You?’ ” (Matthew 25:38) Understanding “Welcoming a Stranger” The Greek term for “stranger” (xenos) refers to anyone unfamiliar—an outsider, foreigner, or traveler. Jesus ties our treatment of such people to our treatment of Him. Welcoming is therefore literal, practical hospitality that meets real needs. Practical Actions That Live Out the Verse • Open your door for a meal or overnight stay when safe and appropriate • Share groceries, clothing, toiletries, or gift cards with newcomers in need • Offer transportation to church, appointments, or job interviews • Help refugees or immigrants navigate paperwork, language classes, and local services • Sit with the newcomer at church, work, or school and introduce them to others • Invite international students or traveling workers to holiday celebrations • Provide temporary shelter during crises (storms, house fires, domestic escape) • Support foster-care or safe-family programs that house children in transition • Volunteer at homeless shelters, food banks, or community kitchens • Make space in small groups or Bible studies for those who have no spiritual family Heart Posture Behind the Actions • Compassion that sees Christ in every needy face (Matthew 25:40) • Readiness to sacrifice comfort and convenience (Luke 10:33-35) • Joyful generosity, not reluctant duty (2 Corinthians 9:7) • Respect that remembers we were once spiritual outsiders welcomed by God (Ephesians 2:12-13) Additional Scriptural Inspiration • Hebrews 13:2 — “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” • Leviticus 19:34 — “The stranger who resides with you shall be to you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself.” • Romans 12:13 — “Contribute to the needs of the saints and practice hospitality.” • James 2:15-16 — “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking daily food, … what good is that?” • 3 John 5-8 — Commendation for believers who “welcome the brothers, even though they are strangers.” Take-Home Application Checklist ☐ Identify one “stranger” (new neighbor, coworker, refugee family) you can serve this week ☐ Share a meal or coffee and listen to their story ☐ Give a tangible gift that meets a current need ☐ Invite them into a worship gathering or small-group setting ☐ Follow up consistently, moving from one-time help to genuine friendship |
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