“Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares”— Heb. 13:1-2
Pastor Jack Graham wrote: I recently spoke with a man who was looking for a church to attend. He told me about one church he visited and said, “You know, when I walked into that church for the first time, I didn’t know a single person. And all the people were huddled together as friends, enjoying each other’s fellowship, which was great. But not one person welcomed me in.”
Very often, I see people in the body of Christ become so inward focused that they forget there are people outside the walls who need to know Jesus as Savior. They neglect welcoming others into the community of faith because they’re so engrained into their church clique.
But I can’t help but wonder what would happen if we stepped out of those cliques, turned our focus outward more often, and extended a warm welcome to those who aren’t a part of our local body of believers. I’m convinced if that happened, more people would respond to our message and our churches would grow like never before!
When God brings outsiders to your doors, welcome them in with open arms. Turn your focus outward and allow God’s love to be shown through you to a watching world!
Notice the word “Let”– that puts this responsibility squarely on our shoulders. It speaks of something we can and should do. The outsider might or might not be an angel – it shouldn’t make any difference. Whether the person is a bum or a banker, the president or a prostitute, a drunk or dignitary we ought to show them loving concern. God loved us while we were yet sinners (Rom. 5:8). Let us do the same toward others. – HDS
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346
